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:

• 

  Compare to E class - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By rick78654 - January 19 - 11:46 pm

  This is my first BMW and I finally got it right! Fell in love with this car when I first drove it early in 2004, but availability was nil. Before I returned to the BMW dealer, I checked out the E class once more - I previously owned an E430. I had some issues with the Benz in the area of seating comfort. I still find I cant get comfortable in a Benz, yet I felt like an old man driving it (E class) with the way it handles. Well let me tell you, the 5 series is truly a remarkable combination of ride quality and handling. I didnt expect such a terriffic ride quality from a BMW handling machine but its unbelievable. Easily the quietest car I have ever owned. Dont listen to the crtics

• 

  2004 530 is OK but not like previous 5s - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By RiceOwls - January 17 - 7:20 pm

  This is my second 5 series, and is lacking compated to the 2002 model. The active steering is OK, as is i-drive, zip is good as is braking. I-drive is overkill (e.g. buttons for radio would be better), interior feels like a Camry or Avalon instead of a BMW, its got more squeaks and rattles than an 80s vintage GM car, it "floats" when hit by strong winds, problem with the gas tank such that it thinks its full after being filled with 1-2 gallons (even if it needs a full tank), had to have i- drive fixed by dealer within first few months, inferior storage and cup holders (OK so thats standard BMW and not specific to 2004 5 series), and in general does not stack up to the previous 530.

• 

  Great car, classic styling - 1995 BMW 5-Series
  By bob in houston - January 16 - 9:46 am

  I bought this car with 75k miles on it, I now have over 165,000! As youd expect, repairs are eventually required, Ive done most of the work myself: water pump, radiator, front & rear rotors, shocks/struts front and rear, steering linkage. Yes, some of these cars have an engine block that causes a somewhat rough idle (blocks were made of an aluminum with nickel, the Nikasil blocks), but the sulphur content in older blends of U.S gasoline is not an issue anymore. This car has served me well, and I STILL get compliments on it when I fillrup at the gas station.

• 

  Best I Ever Had - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By dben99 - January 15 - 9:13 pm

  My lease was close to up for the Lexus GS 300, and I decided to narrow it down to the newer GS 350, MB E350, or the 535i. I tried the E550, and it was ok. Nice inside appointments, but not a thrill to drive. I then tried the 535i, and that was it. The car is a rocket as others say. I was doing a modest 80 mph on the highway, and stepped about 1/2 way down on the gas, hit 3,500 RPM, and just took off. Dangerously fast. The 300 ft/lb of torque are in a wide range of RPMs, allowing the car to jump at lower ranges (1,500-5,500 RPM). Handling is insanely tight. Little to no play in the steering. Bluetooth connection through the radio is tops. Very fun to drive, and highly recommended.

• 

  Excellence - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By owner - January 13 - 8:43 pm

  When this thing gets out in the road you cant even hear the engine but that power is directly under your foot. When you unleash this car on the highway you feel a sense of love. You would understand if youve even driven one. With the sport package on this car you get a great amount of features especially that suspension it makes you feel like your driving on a pillow. I love the way you can just drive without feeling uncomfortable. You can go on long trips without even feeling like you just have to get out the car and walk. The way the seats hug you when you drive is a thing of delight. It has the real BMW power in all ways. Its just great fun to drive. This car is the ultimate driving machine.

• 

  Stunning BMW 530i - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By LWNorton - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Great handling car, fun to drive, and extremely reliable. Whats there not to like?

• 

  THE BEST SEDAN - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By griggsbarn - January 13 - 10:00 am

  This is my 4th BMW and my second 5- series. Although it is underpowered for me,it is a good family car. My 330cic was the keeper.

• 

  perfect beast - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By dr193 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Im reviewing the 2003 M5

• 

  Best value on the road - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By blp - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Best performing auto ever owned. Handling, braking, economy and safety in a complete package. Absolute fun to drive.

• 

  good - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By hardcorerocker97 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  great car, if ur looking for a sweet nice looking car with a good price tag this car is the one. I would recommend it for anyone, last long too.