I don't think it's that surprising to have so many owners. Mine had a similar number when I bought it. I did a bit of digging and BMW were registered along with the same owner twice in succession - could be a similar story with this one? With mine, by the time the second private owner had the car, he was actually recorded as the fourth! Anyhow, these cars often change hands quickly for all sorts of reasons. Many a time since I've been on this forum I've seen someone buy a zed, M or otherwise, and within six months they're posting up about how a move abroad, some medical condition, or a move to a car that they really wanted first time round forces sale. Not saying it's a good or bad thing really, more that it doesn't surprise me any more. I haven't had my car that long in the scheme of things - about 20 months or so - but I won't be far off being the person with lengthiest period of ownership. I also can't see me getting rid anytime soon.
Stevo