For most car lovers, it is a nightmare to lose a valuable vehicle. For Chris Harris it was almost in reality. The renowned car journalist and Top Gear moderator had his beloved E28 BMW M5 stolen overnight overnight in Clifton. As a car that he has had for 19 years, the M5 was more than just a vintage performance salon -it was part of his personal automotive history.
Restored by a fan: a social media miracle
But when the news circulated on social media, something remarkable happened. One of Harris’ followers discovered the car that was parked far from the place where it was taken. “He wrote to a message and said ‘I stand by your M5’,” said Harris. “It was a long way from my place of residence. And they got a little confused, but it’s back.”
The good Samaritan – only identified as Lee – not only reported the sighting. He waited on the car on the car until Harris could get there himself. “Lee stayed with the car until I arrived. What a good man,” said Harris, clearly grateful.
The damage: still repairable, still special
Photos of the recovered M5 reveal the type of damage that you would expect from a rushed and ruthless theft. The wheel and the tires have beaten and must be replaced. The ignition cable was torn out – probably to be called the car – and other electrical cables were visibly pulled and damaged. Fortunately, the structure appears intact and the damage can be repaired.
The legendary M5
The E28 M5 is not an ordinary classic. In the late 1980s, the world’s fastest production sedan was powered by a modified version of the legendary BMW M1 straight motor. Harris’ car is not only a rare machine, but also one that has been part of his personal and professional journey for almost two decades.
While the emotional sting of theft takes time to fade, it is a certain life to know that the car is back home – and that the community played a key role. In a world that is often criticized for its negativity, it remembers that sometimes only a good person with a sharp eye and a little patience to turn a bad day is just a good person.
As for the M5, it is again in Harris’ garage, a little worse for wear – but still alive, still special and still his.
