South Africa's vibrant 1970s motorsport scene produced many homologation specials. In 1976, BMW's South African division created what many consider the first true 'M' car: the 530 MLE, two years before the M1 supercar.
To compete in local touring car racing, BMW SA needed a more powerful saloon. The answer was fitting the 3.0-liter straight-six engine from the larger BMW models into the E12 5 Series chassis. The road-going version, required for homologation, produced 197bhp.
The 530 MLE was far from a standard car with a bigger engine. It featured distinctive BMW Motorsport stripes, unique front and rear spoilers, and extensive weight-saving measures. Over 150kg was saved compared to a standard 528 through drilled bodywork, thinner glass, and the removal of luxury items.
On the road, the MLE offered a thrilling mix of lightweight agility and straight-six power, with a glorious engine note and a dog-leg gearbox. It dominated South African racing, winning all 15 races in 1977.
While BMW officially cites the M1 as the first M car, the 530 MLE's legacy is undeniable. It set the blueprint for the high-performance supersaloon and directly influenced European models like the M535i.