Cameron Greig wrote:
>Your comments on badge engineering apply only to the E28 M535i.

Yes, they did and they do. Although if you draw the comparison, the E12 M535i was about the twin to the later E24 US 535is in terms of equipment, which would have raised everyone's hackles across the pond had the US importer decided to put an M-badge on that model!

>The E12 M535i was a highly significant car when it was introduced in
>September
>1980.This was the first M car from BMW (excluding the M1) and was a joint
>effort between BMW motor sport and the production manufacturing side of
>the company.The car was fitted with the 3.5L six cylinder engine that had
>been already fitted to the 635CSL coupe and the 735CSL saloon. <SNIP>

I know all that. I saw the car when it was first introduced at AG, and even have the original sales flyer describing the car. Can't say I was fond of the upholstery material. I still have to think that the 2002 turbo or the CSL were the original M-cars, if you really consider the facts.

The E12 M535i was basically an engine swap and parts bin pilfering. Most of this was already available as optional equipment, nothing special about the engine. Not to take away from the car's appeal. The exterior cosmetics were quite nice. Anyone who owns one should be quite proud of its heritage.

• -Phil