And then there is the M5… An absolute jewel of a model, truly one of the best “classic” AA Millennium models, in breathtaking Zinnober Rot (was also released in Delphin Grau).



AUTOart BMW E28 ///M5 - "Shadow Line" Zinnober Red- #75152

I own many scale models, and this M5 is one of my most loved pieces. The prototype, the execution of the model, the heart and soul that went into making this scale piece – is just unmatched.


Venerable M88/3 is faithfully recreated in scale. Based obviously on European M5 model, this is the same engine AA later put into their equally magnificent E24 models.


Similar to the M535i, the interior of the M5 is clean and nicely detailed. Natur color scheme is the same like was offered on all US-models, but beautiful Zinnober Rot paint is not – US cars were all painted black.


Fully carpeted trunk, with first aid kit molded in black plastic on the side, and tool kit on the trunk lid. Excellent tail lenses with great reflectors. Hinges are a bit oversized, but expected from a model released in 2007.


Full-open, full detail diecast modelcar made with lots of love. The model oozes good vibes!


The stance, the wheels, the paint – all just about perfect.

Looking at the pictures above, it is easy to see why this model was desired by many collectors, and in a very short time was sold out and became extremely sought after. Coupled with the fact that AA lost BMW license and never re-released this (or any BMW models for that matter) – the prices went up faster than the real M5 could disappear into horizon on an autobahn. I’ve seen this model sell for over 10 times its original selling price on more than one occasion.

All of this didn’t not go unnoticed in diecast world, and Otto decided to defuse the high-stakes market for AA E28 M5 model, and released their sealed resin version. Otto model is based loosely on their Alpina chassis, and looks just as good. Since AA never released black M5, this is a welcome addition and an opportunity for collectors that missed this car earlier to add one to their collections.



OTTOmobile BMW E28 ///M5 – Black, LMT ED 2000 – Diamond Black Metallic - #OT184

While it is hard to compare a full-detail diecast and a sealed resin model, Otto is a very good release on its own right. No chassis or engine detail, and fewer details in the interior, but it does not look out of place sitting next to AUTOart on the shelf.


Nearly identical front ends, with slightly “simpler” headlights on Otto release. Wheels and tires are exceptional on both models. Otto has a trunk spoiler not included on AA.



And that is all we currently have in E28 model lineup. While not complete, it is definitely a good representation of the lineup. All in all, completists need acquire 6 models – M5 and M535i from AA, Alpina B7 and M5 from Otto, Alpina B10 from LS, and M535i from Norev. All others can easily skip Norev and Otto M5 if they can get their hands on AA models and Alpinas. No matter how you want to collect – if you ever get a chance to add any of the AUTOart E28’s to your collection – please do, they are highly recommended.