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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  Great 525i - 1990 BMW 5-Series
  By Jonathan W - March 3 - 2:00 am

  Purchased with 71,000 miles now have 141,000. Car has been very reliable and fun to drive. handles great and only the lack of real power is a downside. Despite lower hp, this car cruises at 85 and handles great. Been an excellent ownership experience.

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  Definitely the ultimate driving machine - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By RickBMW - March 2 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car Ive ever owned. Everything about it reeks of quality and attention to detail. Gas mileage does suffer in city driving (16 mpg) but it gets a whopping 30 mpg on the highway and its smooth as glass.

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  BMW 525i - the best 5 series model - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By don500 - March 2 - 2:00 am

  Value is nothing short of exceptional when you consider the rating factors relative to the price. In fact, I doubt whether you can find a better car for the money. Superbly designed and built vehicle!

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By Sean P - March 1 - 2:00 am

  This is an exceptional car that combines true two-seater performance in a 4-door family sedans body. Like other reviewers, I smile every time I get in and head for an interstate.

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  My 5er - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Markalden1 - March 1 - 2:00 am

  My first BMW, I find very few negative things to say. I am very happy with my choice.

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  Buy one now! - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By Itstoobeautiful - February 27 - 2:00 am

  The styling of the E39 is perfect-- understated, sensuous, mysterious, and with the right wheel package, subtly aggressive. Performance is incredible-- tracks through corners like its on rails, accelerates quickly, cruises effortlessly at speed. Leather is buttery soft. This is the kind of car you will never tire of driving. Havent had any mechanical issues yet. It will need routine maintenance and parts replaced as it has 100k miles on it. Still--it drives like its brand new. Smooth, quiet, and fast. This car is just plain beautiful.

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  Bottom line: 2004 530ia bimmer - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By joejoe91 - February 26 - 10:00 am

  Bottom line: 5 series bimmers still provide "The Ultimate Driving Experience" hands down! In my search for a new car over the past 6 months, I have reviewed and test driven over 10 different makes of 2004 vehicles including BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, & Infiniti. The BMW 5 series is, to me, the VERY BEST in every category.

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  NATES Riew - 1990 BMW 5-Series
  By W.N.V.sr - February 25 - 2:00 am

  tHIS IS A NICE MODEL MY SECOND 5351,PERFORMANCE IS REAL NICE SMOOTH,MPG IS NOT BAD EITHER ON LONG TRIPS I HAVE ACHEIVED UP TO 25.7 MPG CRUISING UP AROUND 75MPH,KEY IS TO OWN TOOLS AND THE BOOK THAT MAKES IT A FAR MORE ECONOMICAL OWNERSHIP. IT ALSO AFORDS YOU THE OPORTUNITY TO LEARN AND TO KNOW THE CAR.NICE INVESTMENT,PLEASURE TO DRIVE AND RELIABLE.4 MO. AGO TOOK ON A 3200 MILE TRIP. WAS SMOKING!!!!

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  Fun to Drive but lacks Quality - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By rpcmig - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought new in 99 and currently have 65k miles. Great handling and sporty ride.Awesome to drive but its starting to fall apart.Its been back to the dealer countless times to replace different sensors.Currently having electrical problems. Something keeps draining the battery and the car wont start after sitting for an hour.Dealer says repair could be expensive. Everyone knows the cupholders are awful. I feel we paid way too much for what we got. We would have been better served with a Lexus or Volvo.

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  Great Car! - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By Brendon - February 21 - 2:00 am

  Exellent performance. One of the nicest sounding engines ever! It goes like a bat out of hell.