BMW 525 Auto (E12) Saloon, 1980
Chassis No.: WBA38620004536674 £6,750 GBP | Sold • The Ex-Sir Robert McAlpine • Registration no. MKR 293W • Odometer reading: 57,261 • MOT Expiry: Exempt • Low mileage E12 • M30 engine • Originally owned by Sir Robert McAlpine To view a video of this lot please click here The E12 BMW 5 Series was the first generation of the company's successful executive saloon. Produced between 1972 and 1981, the E12 was also one of the first cars to debut the company's iconic "shark nose" design that now defines BMWs of the late 20th century. This later example E12 was first registered on 13 October 1980 and is believed to have been originally owned by the construction company Sir Robert McAlpine. This is uniquely commemorated on a plaque in the engine bay that also displays the chassis number. This model, a 525, is also powered by BMW's M30 2.5-litre straight-six engine, which is famous for its smooth yet high-revving nature. The car also has a very low mileage of only 57,261 miles. There is little history with the car, however the vendor has stated that he is the fourth owner of the car after his father, who previously owned the car for over 30 years until he passed away in July 2020. Outside, the car is finished in sapphire blue metallic with a dark blue cloth interior. Both the bodywork and paintwork present well, and interior is also in a very good condition. Externally the car could be brought up to a much higher standard if desired. BMWs from this era are fast appreciating, and this is a lovely first generation example of the company's well-regarded executive saloon. Vendor Score Total: 74/100 Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments. Key for sellers' assessments: 1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing 2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage 3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well 4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout 5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well EXTERIOR TOTAL: 18/25 Body Work: 3 Paint: 3 Glass: 4 Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4 Wheels/Tyres: 4 RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16/20 Gearbox/Clutch: 5 Axles: 4 Suspension: 4 Brakes: 3 INTERIOR TOTAL: 16/20 Seats: 4 Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 4 Headlining: 4 Trim: 4 ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8/10 Main components: 4 Ancillary components: 4 ENGINE TOTAL: 15/20 Starting: 5 Running: 4 Under Bonnet: 3 Mechanical components: 3 Car History File: 1 https://cars.bonhams.com/auction/26809/lot/56/the-ex-sir-robert-mcalpine1980-bmw-525-auto-e12-saloon-chassis-no-wba38620004536674/