Overview & Reviews

It's no exaggeration to say that the BMW 5 Series sets the standard for premium sport sedans. Introduced for the 1972 model year, the midsize 5 Series has long offered a near-perfect blend of performance, luxury and interior room. It's also highly regarded for its refined styling and innovative technology features.

Most BMW 5 Series models you'll come across will be rear-wheel-drive sedans, though you'll stumble upon the occasional 5 Series wagon on the used car market. In addition, all-wheel drive has been optional for some time, and many used sedans in colder climes will be so equipped. Traditionally, the 5 Series has featured an inline six-cylinder gasoline engine, but BMW has also offered V8 engines, turbocharged four-cylinders and even diesel-powered options. When people ask us to recommend luxury cars, the BMW 5 Series is invariably high on the list, new or used.

User Reviews:

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  Cant get any better - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Anna - April 2 - 4:10 pm

  The test drive sold me in 30 seconds. Doesnt hold a candle to the Lexus or the Benz. Handling of turns is most impressive and turns on a dime. Purrs like a kitten.... the sound system is great... the i-drive is a piece of cake. I would buy another one tomorrow.

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  It is almost perfect for me. - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By Edmond - April 2 - 3:02 am

  Solid car. No major problems. The following items have been repaired or fixed so far: 1. cam position sensor. 2. Water pump. 3. thermostat. 4. Seatbelt harness cause the SRS light on. Almost all the parts you can order from the internet for very cheap price.

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  04 530i - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Jimb - April 2 - 2:00 am

  Excellent car to lok at and drive. The interior could us a little more luxury and the simplified i-drive works extremely well. The exterior is a welcome change to the boring look of the previous exterior and the drive is much improved.

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  The Best Auto Ive Ever Driven - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Nickys BMW - April 1 - 12:48 pm

  This vehicle is beautiful to look at, fun to drive and very reliable. BMW Service is second to none and we would never think of puchasing another make of vehicle. My husband used to be a Cadillac Man, but not anymore!

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  look out open road - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By bigb - March 31 - 6:13 am

  Bought it recently and car was well cared for. What a car-like going on vacation every time behind the wheel- just pure pleasure. I know it will eventually cost me but who cares-you cant take it with you. If you have the desire-try one used and you will see what I mean.

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  540i - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By Atlanta - March 29 - 6:17 pm

  E39 540i is one of the best cars ever made, bar none. With that said, there is one thing to watch out for when purchasing one, the cooling system. Water pumps with PLASTIC impellers, PLASTIC expansion tanks that crack, Thermostats that fail, and radiators that usually dont last past 70K miles. CPO is great, when it runs out, do-it-yourself and save a bundle. This car is put together right and working on them (and I didnt until this car) is a breeze. You will not be disappointed with this car.

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  Its been a great car - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By Terry B - March 28 - 8:53 pm

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  A Luxury Rocket Ship..... - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By wtc - March 25 - 3:03 am

  The 545i is the finest vehicle Ive ever owned... Sports car like feel in speed and handling, luxurious and comfortable for extended trips... With extremely attractive styling, other drivers always staring at it...

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  My first car from across the pond... - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By skent - March 24 - 2:50 pm

  Confidence inspiring. That really sums it up. This car has legendary handling, more than adequate power and killer brakes. This is my first BMW and it will not be my last. I was a little concerned about the maintenace stories, but after having the car a while and doing some research on maintaining this car and some of the cures to common issues, Im not at all worried. Love the styling in and out. The style #66 wheels are my favorite as well.

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  bmw black on black - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By j.men - March 24 - 1:46 pm

  This is my third 5 series car, car has been recalled two times due too computer problems. The 5 drives smooth and is as fast as a rocket. The upgrade seats are terrible not comfortable and not worth the extra money. My computer replacement took 4 weeks! Needless to say i was not happy. Bmw rented a volvo for me and paid the bill. Car is very tight and hits the road bumps very hard, could be the sports package with the low tires? The run flat tires are a pain, you cant get a simple flat fixed, bmw wants the tire to be replaced, at $425. Everyone looks at the black on black 545 it is a great looking car. Im sure the computer bugs are fixed and love driving and highly recommend 545 to all.