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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  Not your typical wagon - 1995 BMW 5-Series
  By AE - November 17 - 2:00 am

  Traded in a 525i for a wagon for more room. One of the best handling and performing cars even in a wagon! The controls and build are solid and well placed. I get between 25-28 mpg on the highway fully loaded with kids. The rear wheel drive layout is perfectly matched to the smooth six. You dont even feel the transmission changing gears as you do in American cars. Everything feels solid about the car.

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  love to drive my 540 - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By DanRube - November 15 - 2:00 am

  1st BMW great car very fast with Dinan chip and intake (came with car) solid driving machine. Not the best car for just going to the store and back it likes the open road and long distances. Like the weight of the car feels safe.

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  My first BMW - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By mseals - November 13 - 2:00 am

  I cant believe how incredible this car is. Even though it is a used CPO, this car continues to amaze me with it features. Power, smoothness, quietness, are just a few words that epitomize this car. I dont think I can ever go back to a plain car again.

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  great car! - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By avid driver - November 10 - 10:00 am

  shopped them all...drove them all...almost went for the G35, but in the end there is nothing to compare with bmw. 530i with premium and sport packages sends the price up, however there is nothing BORING about this sedan. i selected the 5 speed tranny (wife was a bit hesitant) but now glad we went this route. performance, comfort, luxury in one great looking package. replaced an SUV with a sedan version of our porsche!

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  Just Traded a 2004 530i for a 2007 - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By hoganzdad - November 8 - 10:16 am

  Just traded an 04 530i (SP, PP, Auto, Titanium Gray/Gray, clear hood bra) for an 07 530i (SP, PP, Auto, Rear Sunshades, Logic7 stereo, Monaco Blue/Beige, clear hood bra). I continue to love the exterior design. The extra hp in the 2007 is noticeable. The stereo upgrade was worth it. The rear sunshades are a real nice, classy touch. The Monaco Blue is a deep rich blue. The Bridgestone run-flats in the 2007 are a MAJOR improvement over the Dunlop run-flats in the 2004. Did not get active steering on the 2007 - more turns of the wheel but better feel for the road. Still getting used to the comfort seats (standard on 2007 SP) but I think I will like them better than sport seats on 2004.

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  Cant Touch This! - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Chris977 - November 8 - 2:00 am

  The 5-series definitely sets the standards by which all other sedans should be measured. Each and every day the car continues to amaze me! The steering and handling is like no other car Ive owned. The car simply handles and looks flawlessly. It was engineered extremely well, if not even over-engineered!

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  BMW 535i - 1990 BMW 5-Series
  By Nate in NY - November 7 - 2:00 am

  The best thign to do with is car, is find an open road. Even though my car is 13 years old, it still is exceptionally fun to drive. IT handles well, and has plenty of kick.

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  Fun Fun Fun But Nickle and Dimed - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By FGORILLA - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Unbelievable performance, but there have been quite a few minor ($$$) electrical issues (i.e. rear window wont retract, warning lights stay on, etc).

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  Still a Winner - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Bob L - November 5 - 2:00 am

  My 2003 525 was totaled when a pickup broadsided my family at 55 mph. They came out without a scratch! It wasnt love at first sight with the 2004, but I trusted no other car for my familys safety. I got it with the actice steering and suspension and it is truly outstanding. It out performs my 2003 and the new technology is a nice touch. The adaptive xenon headlights turn the corner before you do, adding a little extra safty. I like the i- drive, its simple and helpful. The car looks like its moving even sitting in my driveway. A little costly, but how do you put a price on your family. Dont have one... get one! I love this car.

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  Bimmer Bummer - 1997 BMW 5-Series
  By delawaredriver - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Electrical and mechanical problems plague this car. It has more rattles than an old Chevy. Thank goodness for the extended warranty. I used to overlook the failures because of how much "fun" it is to drive a BMW. No more! Cant wait to get rid of it.