Larger than the 3-series but still offering just about the same level of performance, the 1997-2003 generation of the 5-series is our Luxurious Bargain of the week. BMW greatly improved the driving dynamics, power and luxury of this generation over the previous, and many like this body design over the current generation.
Starting at $5k for a 1997 528i and topping out at $26,500 for the high performance M5, the value is unbeatable. The 2.8L DOHC 6-cylinder engine in the 528i made a competent 190 horsepower and is mated to a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed auto. The larger 4.4L V-8 in the 540i put out 282 horsepower through the rear wheels and offered the choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions. The M5 sedan came with an impressive 4.9L V-8 producing a rubber smoking 394 horsepower and only came with a 6-speed manual!
Fuel economy for the V-6 engine with a 5-speed manual was 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg highway and 15/24 in the 540i. The M5 even managed respectable highway mileage at 23 miles per gallon, but quickly burns gasoline in the city at 15 mpg.
Besides being a remarkable performance machine, the 5-series has a roomy interior with 11 ft3 of trunk space and optional split folding rear seats. Fold the rear seats of the wagon variant and you get a grand 65.2 ft3 of space for moving/storing junk, or whatever else may happen in the back of a car.
Technology and safety are a German automakers' forte, and the 5-series did not disappoint. GPS navigation, memory power seats and mirrors, and Park Distance Control were all available. Rain-sensing windshield wipers and xenon headlights became standard on the 540i in 2000, while all models got daytime running lights and a right-side mirror that tilts down when the car is shift into reverse.
Front, front and rear thorax airbags, and "tubular" side airbags for occupants' heads were also optional then standard throughout this generation. Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and dynamic stability control were also available.
Like all vehicles that age, a used 5-series is bound to need a few repairs while under your possession. I can not stress enough the importance of finding a good repair facility that has knowledgeable techs and a sensible labor rate. Look around for diplomas/certification papers, and ask for them if they are not visible. Also, research whatever problem you may be having beforehand and see how the technician diagnoses it, then make a decision.
Source: ConsumerGuide and BMW
Comments
your English teacher would be very unhappy with the structure of this article and I'm going to have to disagree with the whole "a used 5-series is bound to need a few repairs while under your possession. " besides routine work such as oil changes and brake jobs these baby's will last some time (if properly maintained)
I would have to say that the test of any car is if after being neglected it still won't need any major repairs. Most cars if properly maintained will last some time. I will agree with you that the 5-series doesn't have as many problems as the 7-series.
I'd like some clarification as why you're unhappy with the structure of the article Mr. Marji.
Also, I wasn't criticizing how long the car was going to last, but rather that things will wear out and need repair just like any other mechanical device. The other issue is finding a repair shop when a part does fail to avoid the typical astronomical labor rates of luxury dealerships.