2006 BMW 550i VR4 Armoured Car | The Summer Serenade Auction | 18th July

• Armoured Security to VR4 specification
• Just two former keepers and low mileage diplomatic vehicle

Launched in 2003, BMW's E60-generation 5 Series represented a significant step forward for the marque, combining cutting-edge technology with impressive performance and refinement. Designed under Chris Bangle, the E60 divided opinion when new but has since become recognised as one of the most distinctive executive saloons of its era. Sitting near the top of the range, the 550i was introduced with BMW's superb 4.8 litre naturally aspirated V8, producing 367bhp and delivering effortless performance, a cultured soundtrack and refined long-distance cruising ability. Alongside the standard production models, BMW also developed specialist Security variants through its dedicated Security Vehicle programme, producing discreet armoured vehicles for government agencies, diplomatic services and high-profile individuals. These factory-built cars retained the appearance and driving characteristics of the standard model while incorporating sophisticated ballistic protection engineered and integrated during manufacture.

An exceptionally unusual example, this BMW 550i Security is believed to have been factory-built by BMW as part of the E60 Armoured Security programme to VR4 specification, making it a remarkably rare opportunity to acquire one of the marque's discreet factory armoured saloons. Although manufactured in 2006, the vehicle remained in diplomatic storage for approximately ten years before being first registered on 1st December 2016. As a result, it has covered a mere 9,400 warranted miles from new and has had just two registered keepers.

The vehicle retains its comprehensive factory-installed security features, including laminated ballistic glass throughout, reinforced armoured doors, strengthened body construction and heavy-duty suspension and chassis components engineered specifically to cope with the increased weight. Recorded on the V5 registration document with an unladen weight of 2,015kg, it is substantially heavier than a conventional 550i, entirely consistent with a genuine factory Security specification.

Externally, the 550i remains remarkably understated, its discreet appearance belying the sophisticated engineering beneath. The substantial weight of the armoured doors and the distinctive ballistic glazing immediately identify this as something rather special to those familiar with BMW's Security programme. Rarely do factory-built Security models emerge onto the open market, particularly with such exceptionally low mileage and documented provenance. Offering impressive V8 performance combined with genuine factory armoured protection, this highly unusual BMW represents a fascinating collector's piece, equally suited to the marque enthusiast, specialist collector or anyone seeking one of the rarest and most intriguing variants of the E60 5 Series. Consigned by Mathew Priddy