Meet This 1997 BMW 525tds: A Euro Import That’s Quirkier Than Your Uncle’s Dad Jokes
Ever thought about owning a ride that’s got more stories than your grandmother and still looks sleek? Feast your eyes on this 1997 BMW 525tds, a fine specimen straight out of the Italian market and now flirting with the open roads of the US since its grand entrance in 2024. Wrapped in a coat of Biarritz Blue, its interior takes a cue from the sea with blue cloth upholstery—just in case you fancy feeling at home both in and outside your car.
This beauty doesn’t just coast by on its looks; it’s got a 2.5-liter turbodiesel inline-six growling beneath the hood, mated to a five-speed manual that practically begs for a spirited drive. Of course, it comes with all the modern trimmings (or as modern as a 1997 model gets), such as 16″ alloy wheels and a dual-zone automatic climate control. And if you’re picky about in-car entertainment, worry not—a slick Alpine touchscreen head unit has been added for all your auditory needs.
More Than Just Good Looks
On the outside, it sports European-spec headlights and taillights that give it that oh-so-sophisticated look, as if it’s winking at lesser cars as it motors by. The rear window wiper is perfect for those unpredictable weather days, while a single exhaust outlet keeps things straightforward and classy. Concerned about the sun damaging your interior? Fear not—the windows have been pampered with SunTek carbon/ceramic tint. And if a dodgy driver’s door lock is your Achilles heel, rejoice! It’s been replaced for your convenience.
Rolling With Style
- 16″ wheels outfitted with 225/55 Continental Extreme Contact DWS 06 Plus tires
- Factory-installed self-leveling rear suspension
- Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes for sharp, confident stops
A Touch of the Familiar
Inside, the seats are a cozy blue cloth complemented by some classic wood trim. And while it has dual-zone climate control for comfort, note that one of the buttons has ventured off to a summer holiday of its own. A touch of character adorns the driver’s seat with some upholstery damage alongside cracked wood trim around the gear shifter, which we like to think tells stories of countless adventures.
On the Dashboard
- A four-spoke steering wheel overseeing a charmingly retro dash
- 250 km/h speedo and a 6k-rpm tachometer
- Auxiliary gauges watching over fuel level and coolant temperature
- Digital odometer reading a well-lived 281k kilometers (~175k miles), 5k lovingly added by the current owner
The Heart of the Machine
Power figures in nicely at 141 horsepower with 192 lb-ft of torque ready to pounce, sent directly to the rear wheels—because why not drive like it’s meant to be driven? The oil’s fresh and slick, and it’s humming along thanks to an AGM battery installed in July 2024.
Additional Perks
And just when you thought it was all about doing the tango with horsepower, there are spare keys at the ready, complete with owner’s manuals and service records for those who appreciate a well-documented automobile history. Plus, canvas front-seat covers are included for when you want to play it safe. Let’s not forget, it’s flaunting a crisp Georgia title.
For a ride that’s circumnavigated the globe, this isn’t your average garage queen. It’s a dignified traveler ready for even more open-ended journeys.
Final Ponders
In case you’re a visual kind of person, fear not—the gallery below features all those intricate underbelly shots that might just stroke your inner car geek. And with a history beginning from June 2024, this car is ready to make future tales as colorful as its vibrant past.
So there you have it. A blend of Old World charm with New World flair, wrapped in a Biarritz Blue package that’s hard to ignore. Tempted? You’re not alone.