BMW 5-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.61/5 Average
2,190 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 1491 through 1500 of 2,190.00
  • BMW 540i 6sp - 2000 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car is always a pleasure to drive and its stealth performance is there when you need it. The body style and popularity of lesser 5-series models doesnt turn heads but this car is made to thrill the driver, not the bystanders. Cupholder criticisms aside, the quality and durability is everything that its numerous awards suggest.

  • Das Auto!! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Purchased our 2003 530i a little over a year ago. Got it for $5K and at 130K miles. I do most of my own repairs and Ive never seen such awesome engineering on a car. Its a pleasure to work on if you are into car repair. Driving it is a real thrill that never gets old. Weve taken it on several long trips and it just loves the open road. Seats are amazingly comfortable. Usually back seats are a weak point in most sedans but this BMW has very comfortable rear seats. Gas mileage on a combined city/highway commute is about 25 mpg. For a 24 valve 6 cylinder that is very good mileage. Hope to keep this beauty for the foreseeable future.

  • Passion To Drive - 2001 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    The finest car that I have ever owned or driven - ride, fit and finish, and prestige. The 5 series has lived up to all the reviews and then some. The driver can feel the engineering. Even in rainy weather, the car hugs the road. The weight balance and responsiveness makes it ideal for winter city driving even in this hilly town. It is a drivers car!

  • Reliability or Performance - 1998 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Great car to drive when it is on the road. Ive owned cars that had a reputation for poor reliability but the car beats them all. Im a first and last time BMW owner. Buy it only if you have a second car and lots of extra cash.

  • the best of the best - 2001 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    What can I say other than this vehicle is fun fun fun-not just transportation.Add the streptronic transmission and you get the thrill of a lifetime-driving a true sports machine and loving every mile you drive.I have driven them all but this one leads the pack in all catagories- the best..

  • Great car but low reliability - 2002 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This was my first BMW, and it was the best car I ever owned -- until its second birthday. Great handling, braking, overall feel. Above average marks on luxury and comfort. No problems until the two year mark, then all sort hit in fairly quick order. Including: electrical system problems stranded me three times in two weeks, rotting trim, radio & climate controls, and computer display panel fading out. Traded car after Internet research - - BMWs OK reliabilty in general but if you get one that goes bad it really goes bad.

  • Ulimate Discomfort Machine - 2000 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    The sport seats have nearly crippled me. The seat cushion sags even under my moderate 170 lb. frame. This causes spine to flatten and forces a slouch position. The lumbar support tries to force your spine into normal curvature, but it is poorly positioned, hard as a rock, and not adjustable. Ive never been so pleased with a car, and yet been unable to enjoy it due to the major discomfort of the seats. Ive owned 10+ cars and driven countless European, Japanese and American cars on business trips. Ive never had a seat bother me before, despite very long trips.

  • Just got 2004 525i - 2004 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Just got a 2004 525i automatic with cold weather package, xenon lights (which are way nice!), leather and premium package...very nice car!! I had been researching extensively new BMWs, Mercedes, and the like for the last 5 months. BMW is a very solid car. You feel very much in control. Even though I have only had it a week, it so far has proven excellent to my high standards (I plan on updating this entry in 6-8 months to see if all is still well). I was also torn between the 530 and 525, there really is not much difference in the engine perfomance considering an extra $5,000 for 39 more horsepower.

  • excellent - 2002 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    the best car Ive ever owned. This makes the 2nd 540 Ive owed and I can not wait for the next version in 2003.

  • 2001 530i with Premium/Xenon - 2001 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Bought my 2001 530i after a few months of research but dealer left a bad taste. The car is fun to drive and looks awesome but seems to require regular visits to the shop for various issues like radio, cup holders, wipers, bulbs, etc. The dealer experience is terrible - I have tried 4 different dealers over 3+ years and it is the only major regret I have (enough to make be go to another brand for my next car). Poor handling in snow. Front bumper is low enough to require frequent visits to the shop. Side and rear visibility is poor due to small mirrors and huge headrests.

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