BMW 518

Vehicle Description

The 1978 BMW 518 (E12) was a more affordable entry-level model in the 5 Series range, featuring a 1.8-liter engine and offering a good mix of comfort, handling, and reliability. With solid engine performance and a very good chassis, the 518 was an attractive option for buyers looking for a reliable and comfortable vehicle without opting for the more powerful variants such as the 528 or 530.
The BMW 518 (E12) from 08/1978 is a particularly authentic and exceptionally well-preserved example of the first 5 Series generation. As the entry-level model in the series, the 518 combined classic BMW virtues with a clear focus on comfort, reliability, and balanced driving characteristics.

The vehicle is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which is known for its smooth running and robustness. In combination with the very balanced chassis, the BMW 518 already offered a confident, pleasant driving experience at the end of the 1970s – comfortable on long journeys and yet typically BMW with precise handling.

Particularly noteworthy is the extremely low mileage of only 13,000 kilometers, which makes this vehicle a real rarity. The timeless, functional E12 look with clean lines and classic interior design underscores the authentic character of this model.

Conclusion
The 1978 BMW 518 (E12) is now a sought-after classic for connoisseurs and enthusiasts of original BMW models. With its modest engine, it impresses with its everyday practicality, reliability, and the authentic character of the early 5 Series.

With its exceptionally low mileage, documented history, and recognized classic car status, this vehicle represents a rare opportunity—ideal for collectors looking for an understated but high-quality classic with genuine BMW charm.

The following documents are available for the vehicle:

· Italian vehicle registration document (new and old)
· TÜV Italy (2022)
· Inspection Italy (2022)
· Certificate for historic vehicles (Automobilclub Storico Italiano)

It was the year of the Munich olympics – 1972 – when BMW launched the successor to its “New Class”: A new naming scheme was brought in, which lives on to this day. The E12 became the first generation of BMW’s 5 series, it featured very straight lines and a clear 3-box design by Paul Bracq which gave the car a modern look, while maintaining a degree of similarity with its predecessor.
In its first year, only 4-cylinder engines were available. The inline 6 engines which were to become near-synonymous with the 5 series were only introduced in 1973. During the 9-year production run, engines grew more powerful, culminating in the M535i with a power output of 160 kW (210 hp), the forefather of the M5. There was no Diesel engine in the 1st generation of the 5 series, and the 4-door sedan remained the only available body style.
In 1976, the E12 received a makeover at the hands of Claus Luthe, with post-facelift cars easily identifiable by their side-mounted fuel filler door and the centre bulge on the bonnet.
By the time production was halted, just short of 700,000 units had been built. The E28 which was to follow was based on the E12 and bore, at least on the outside, a close resemblance to it.

Vehicle Overview