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 1651 through 1660 of 2,190.00
  • Great Buy - 1997 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Excellent car to drive.

  • Love it, but ... - 1999 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Love the performance, the look and the handling of the car. So much fun to drive. Really enjoy leaving others at the stop light, the car moves away to effortless. Disappointed with the reliability. Both rear power windows broke, one after another, had also problems with the windshield molding deteriorating, water pump was an expensive repair.

  • Near perfect - 2001 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Every time I drive it I smile. The perfect balance between ride comfort and handling/performance. Handles like my corvette but the ride is much more forgiving. This is close to being the perfect car.

  • Nothing Even Comes Close - 1999 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    True car nut here. I have owned and driven just about every vehicle on the face of the planet. Its true what everyone says: the BMW 540i is the best 4 door sedan $ can buy. My 99 540i with the M packages and dealer installed Dinan Stage III is an everyday driver that behaves like an exotic.

  • Wonderful vehicle. - 2000 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I purchased this vehicle used with 22,000 miles on it. It was absolutely spotless. Mine has the Sport and Premium packages and is beautiful both in and out. I was afraid that the 2.8L V-6 would not be powerful enough, but it is more than adequate for the type of driving I do. Besides, the wonderful suspension, brakes and steering more than make up for it, and your gas mileage is a lot better as well. I owned two Lexus ES 300s before this. They were both very competent automobiles, but cannot hold a candle to the 528 in terms of driving experience.

  • The Best - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    It may be the final generation of cars that really looks like a BMW. Drives and handles beautifully. 530 probably a better choice for extra power, but the 525 really doesnt feel anemic on the highway. Gorgeous interior, high grade materials, quiet and comfortable. Im sure the future generations of BMW will be impressive, butIm glad I grabbed one of the last of this breed.

  • Fun, Safe, but oh yeah, its fun - 1998 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I fell in love at second gear. Gotta buy the 6 speed! Fourth gear is like nitrous. I have not found the limit on cornering.

  • The Ultimate Driving Machine! - 2001 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    The coolest and classiest car ever!

  • 164K and still a true road car! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I just bought my 525i a couple of weeks ago. I have owned a couple in the past---328xi and an X5. Admittedly, I was a bit skeptical about buying a car with so many miles on it but I was really up against the wall. WIth 4 kids in college, my funds were limited. But I just loved the ride. I am 62" and 240lbs and an ex football player. Needless to say, I need my comfort. This car handles me just fine. I bought it and decided to take it on a road trip with my sweetheart. We went from MPLS, MN to Albuquerque, NM and back...then went to Lewistown MT!! No issues at all. Speed limits were 80 mph! This vehicle just loves the open road. Comfortable---even at the gas pumps. Considering my speed we still managed over 26.6 mpg overall for our 5k trip. Performance is totally acceptable, quiet cockpit, and the handling---oh my, the handling. There is simply nothing like a BMW on the road---it is happiest there! Now just after purchase I did get stuck with a crank ventilation valve issue. $1043.00 at the dealer. and the ABS system is on the bug. But I am pretty old school and never liked ABS anyway. Dealer said it wont hurt the car not to fix ($1700.00 plus $400 for reprograming) so I am running it as is. The one previous owner took good care of this vehicle. So as far as a recommendation goes for this car, I would have to say that I recommend it highly. CHeck it out thoroughly when you come across one with higher miles on the clock. Then take it to a BMW dealer and have it scoped--about $150.00. Trust me---get this done! Then you can be very comfortable with your purchase.

  • Make a good choice - 2002 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Over audi a6, lexus gs300, I chose BMW 530ia with prem&sports pkg. The engine is more than adequate with rich torque across the band for everyday commute and some fun in between. The sports seats with the thigh support is a plus for 6+footers like myself. sport suspension is a little firmer than standard but still provides comfortable ride and minimal bodyroll in corners. Interior and exterior designs are one of the classics. And the smooth inline6 which hums the best engine music in its class. Of course, you can hardly hear it in low rpms. overall, its a joy to drive and ride.I often have to beg my fiancee(The car was bought for her)for the keys.

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