Though neither BMW’s diesel nor station wagon offerings ever sold particularly well in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s, that doesn’t stop BMW enthusiasts in the States from seeking them out now. This 1994 BMW 525TDS Touring wagon can be found here on eBay in Canada, and it will be federally legal for importation into the U.S. by the end of this year.
Located in British Columbia, Canada, this E34 Touring is a one-owner vehicle with original paint. Despite its somewhat bare-bones spec sheet, it is in absolutely remarkable shape, and it seems clear the previous owner took serious care of it.
Inside the vehicle, you will find a blue cloth interior that is free of rips or tears, as well as a dashboard without any cracks. And did I mention that it’s a 5-speed? Talk about an interesting combination.
While the wagon supposedly has “ice cold” air conditioning, other amenities that you’d expect from a BMW are not present – it has manual seats, no sunroof, and crank windows in the rear.
A turbocharged, 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine rests in the engine bay. The engine has covered 255,500 kilometers during its lifetime, which translates to approximately 158,500 miles. Additionally, the wagon’s service book contains information for each of those miles.
The seller of the vehicle, Splendid Automobiles Inc., notes that a complete reconditioning has been performed on this E34, noting that it is “fully operational and can be driven anywhere.” The wagon features a Buy It Now price of $11,900 USD, though reasonable offers are also subject to consideration. Do you think that you would take a chance on this unique BMW wagon, or do you prefer a better optioned Bimmer?
I like this wagon, but I’d want to pay half the asking price. I don’t have a clue what the value is.
Kevin-
What do you mean “better optioned? As far as I’m concerned this interior is almost perfect. Long lasting, comfy cloth seats, and less bells and whistles to break. In fact the only thing that could be better is if ALL the windows were roll up!
In my book, this the closest thing to a perfect vehicle I’ve seen. However, it’s been on the market a long time. I actually called about it a year ago. So many unknowns for a Yankee to take this chance.
Believe me, I agree with you 100%, this BMW would be perfect for me for all the same reasons. However, there are lots of folks who prefer a BMW with more options, so I was trying to pose a question about its spec sheet and create discussion.
P.S. – I had the same cloth seats in my E28 for a while, they are definitely nice.
I think the E36 and E39 5 series bmw style, design and engineering will go down as some of the most iconic automobiles of the 1990 2000 period. Also the 3 series of that period. The ass end in particular has influenced a lot of car companies. This needs to go to a drivers collection. Someone with a garage full of occasional drivers so you don’t put a lot of miles on them just drive and maintain.
Sunroofs are pretty rare on most BMW even today as a percentage of total sold. More so then.
Specs have always been pretty sparse unless you start ticking boxes.
The Germans themselves had real poverty spec as enty level although this is French I think looking at the service history.
Plastic hub caps were common into the 90’s ..
Well spotted, regarding the service records, but Google Maps tells me that Meyrin is in Switzerland…..
Even better spot .. my error. I don’t know Switerland too well although do need to go there soon so may know more quickly.
Cars are expensive in Switzerland so likely well looked after. Another reason low spec.
these are great cars, the last BMW diesel that will run well on veg oil, not very quick but will keep running for years, the following model, E39 is a future classic, the last BMW you can maintain yourself……….