1974 BMW 520 Sedan - Green - 86,002 Miles - 2.0L Inline-4, 4-Speed Manual
Overview
The BMW 520 represents a pivotal moment in the Bavarian marque's history. Launched in 1972, the E12 generation 520 was the entry point to BMW's executive sedan range, offering the brand's engineering excellence and handling prowess to a broader market. The 520 occupied the sweet spot between the smaller 3-Series and the larger 630CS, delivering genuine performance and refinement in a compact, nimble package. This 1974 example is a period-correct right-hand-drive sedan, built during the model's golden era when BMW was establishing itself as a serious alternative to Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar in the premium market.
This particular 520 presents as a genuine survivor from the mid-1970s. The green metallic exterior shows the patina and weathering you would expect from a vehicle of this age and mileage, with honest paint that tells the story of five decades on the road. The body panels remain straight and solid, with no evidence of major accident damage or structural compromise. The interior retains its original tan leather and cloth trim, showing appropriate wear consistent with the vehicle's 86,002-mile odometer reading. The dashboard, steering wheel, and switchgear are all original specification, and the manual gearbox and mechanical systems present as original throughout. This is a genuine, unrestored classic that has survived intact, complete with its original owner's manual and service logbook documenting its history.
The 2.0-litre inline-four engine is the correct specification for this model year, paired with the original four-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel-drive layout. The engine bay shows appropriate patina and age-related surface corrosion on ancillaries, consistent with a vehicle that has been used and stored over decades rather than pampered in a climate-controlled garage. The spare wheel, tools, and original documentation all remain with the car. At a guide of approximately AUD $8,000 to $12,000 for a 520 of this vintage and condition, this represents genuine value for the classic BMW enthusiast seeking an authentic, unrestored example with documented history.
Condition
The exterior paint is original and weathered, with a dull patina across all panels. Minor stone chipping is visible on the bonnet leading edge and front wings. The green metallic finish shows fading consistent with age and sun exposure, particularly on the roof and bonnet. Lower body panels and trim exhibit light surface corrosion and oxidation. All four doors open and close smoothly. Window seals show deterioration and minor weeping is evident. The chrome trim and bumpers show pitting and oxidation appropriate to the vehicle's age. The interior upholstery is original tan leather and cloth, showing significant wear, discolouration, and age-related cracking on the seat bolsters. The dashboard exhibits cracks and fading throughout. The carpeting is worn, stained, and shows evidence of age and moisture exposure. The steering wheel shows wear on the grip areas. The instrument cluster is original and functional, with the odometer reading 86,002 miles. The spare tyre in the boot shows age-related deterioration and cracking. The boot floor exhibits surface rust and wear. All original glass is present and intact, though showing minor scratches and age-related haziness.
Features
* 2.0-litre inline-four petrol engine, naturally aspirated
* Four-speed manual transmission
* Rear-wheel-drive configuration
* Right-hand-drive layout
* Original tan leather and cloth interior trim
* Original dashboard and instrument cluster
* Original steering wheel and switchgear
* Four-door sedan body
* Five-seat configuration
* Original owner's manual included
* Service logbook with maintenance records
* Original spare wheel and tools
* Chrome bumpers and trim
* Mechanical fuel pump system
* Drum brakes (front and rear)
* Independent suspension front and rear
Condition Notes
* Exterior paint is original, weathered, and faded with minor stone chips on bonnet and wings
* Light surface corrosion visible on lower body panels, trim, and chrome components
* Interior upholstery shows significant wear, discolouration, and age-related cracking
* Dashboard exhibits cracks and fading throughout
* Carpeting worn, stained, and showing moisture exposure marks
* Window seals deteriorated with minor water weeping evident
* Spare tyre shows age-related deterioration and cracking
* Boot floor exhibits surface rust and wear
* Engine bay shows appropriate patina and surface corrosion on ancillaries consistent with age
* Original specification throughout with no evidence of major restoration or modification
Specifications
Year: 1974
Make: BMW
Model: 520
Body: Four-door Sedan
Engine: 2.0-litre Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated
Transmission: Four-speed Manual
Drive: Rear-wheel Drive
Steering: Right-hand Drive
Odometer: 86,002 Miles
Colour: Green Metallic
Seats: 5
Doors: 4
Price Guide: AUD $8,000 - $12,000
CHASSIS: 3321366
(Key #cc30)
Lloyds stock #628225+1
Location of item: 148 Main Street, Beverley, SA, Australia
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
Transport quotes are provided in the bidding centre for delivery to your door or to your nearest depot. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transport, or we can assist with obtaining a quotation for transport to your door prior to bidding. Email [email protected] with your name and lot/stock number and our transport team will be in contact.
Lloyds Auctions advise to use these quotes as a guide only, prices will be variable dependent upon several factors including your location, car value, open or enclosed transport, vehicles sizes and are excluding GST.