Rayziel Santa - 1987 BMW 535is
Discover Rayziel Santa's passion for cars, his love for BMWs, and the transformation of his 1987 BMW 535is into a unique blend of classic and modern
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Rayziel Santa
1987 BMW 535is
Instagram: @Rayguncf
Photographer: @chrshoots
Meet Rayziel Santa: A Veteran’s Passion for Cars and BMWs
I'm Rayziel Santa, a 29-year-old U.S. Army veteran, originally from Puerto Rico, now calling Texas my second home. I have a deep love for cars, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and gaming. Currently, I work as a contractor for the military while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Christian Theology. My story, however, isn’t just about my career or hobbies—it’s about my journey through the car scene, which has shaped who I am today.
A Lifelong Connection to Motorsports
My passion for cars began early, thanks to my stepdad, who used to drag race motorcycles. The sights, sounds, and smells of the drag strip were ingrained in me from a young age. Growing up in Puerto Rico, where Japanese cars dominate the streets, I naturally gravitated towards them. My first truly modded car was a JDM right-hand-drive AE86, and from there, the floodgates opened. The car scene became more than just a hobby—it became a way to express my individualism, creativity, and love for cruising with friends.
The Unexpected Project: 1987 BMW 535is
A New Beginning with an E28
My 1987 BMW 535is, an E28 model, wasn’t something I had planned to own. The car fell into my lap after a significant life change—my divorce. I had two other BMWs for sale, and a friend offered me the E28 in a trade. At first, I was hesitant since my knowledge was limited to 90s and early 2000s BMWs. But I’ve always loved the off-centered exhaust and the quad headlights, so I decided to take a chance on it.
The car needed some engine work and other maintenance fixes, but with time on my hands during the pandemic, I dove into the project. After fixing most of the issues and starting to modify it, the E28 became one of the cars I truly enjoy. It represents my personality and has become a symbol of resilience and transformation in my life.
What Makes the E28 Unique
A Classic Look with a Modern Twist
Driving the E28 is pure joy. Whether I’m throwing it through twisty roads with confidence or slowing down to enjoy the ride, the car never fails to put a smile on my face. The low stance adds a bit of stress, especially when navigating uneven roads, but it’s all part of the experience. Even in stock form, the E28 gathered attention because of its rarity. Most people mistake it for an E30, which adds to the car’s mystique.
What makes my E28 stand out are the bumpers. They’re from a 1990s BMW 5 Series (E34), which gives the car a unique appearance. The French high beams, chrome tints, and modified Shadowline taillights further enhance its distinctive look.
Interior-
- Viilante 350 leggera Alcantara with tricolour stitching
- Garagistic solid mount shifter.
Engine-
- Custom engine mount risers and skid plate
Exterior-
- E34 bumpers,
- French High beams,
- Chrome tints,
- E28 “is” spoiler
- Modified Shadowline tail lights
Wheels and suspension-
- Fifteen52 super touring Chichanes 18x8.5 all the way around
- BC racing coilovers
- BR Type with welded hubs.
The People Behind the Project
Most of the work on the E28 was done by me and my best friend, Tony Hudson. I’ve also had help from other great friends—Angel, David, Peka, and Jerry. The bumpers were painted by my friend Joshua Gonzalez at “Inline Six Paint + Body,” who did an incredible job matching the paint with the rest of the car. Their support and expertise have been invaluable throughout this project.
Future Plans: The Evolution Continues
The E28 build is far from finished. My future plans include an engine swap to an E46 M3 S54 engine, reupholstering the interior, installing an airbag suspension system, and adding a DTM-inspired livery. The goal is to blend classic BMW elements with modern performance and aesthetics, creating a car that’s both timeless and contemporary.
Advice for Fellow BMW Enthusiasts
If you’re considering getting an E28, E30, or any older BMW, don’t wait—prices are only going up. Be mindful when lowering these cars, as the oil pan sits below the frame, making it vulnerable to damage. I’ve already broken mine once, so I know firsthand the importance of careful modifications.
The Community and What the Car Scene Means to Me
Being part of the car scene has brought me countless friendships. The connections I’ve made through the car community, especially with @battlegang, have been more than just social—they’ve become like family. The car scene is a place where individualism thrives, creativity is celebrated, and the love for cars unites us all.
Dream Car: The Vision for the Future
My dream car is to own a Pandem Widebody GTR R35. The combination of power, performance, and presence in a widebody GTR is something I aspire to one day have in my garage.
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