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 a great bimmer but a bimmer - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By Carlover - October 3 - 11:52 pm

  We have owned it for 4 years.I now have it at college. Looks are nice yet little to understated for me. Handling is awsome! Much better looking then E- class. Interior is fitting of a 40k german luxery sedan.We havent had any reliability issues at all, just regular maintenance. Good for starting business person. However it lacks the power (which is the ultimate luxury) and prestige of an M5 or 760i. Which I know cost more. Also decent gas mileage.

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  Outstanding - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By sergio - September 24 - 8:09 pm

  I love this car and all the features especially the electronic seats and computer system

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  Nice styling, the car is not flawless - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By amgolfin - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Sexy styling, nice exterior body lines. The car lives up to its heritage, having a very solid real and sporty performance. Hopefully in 2005, there will be some cosmetic changes and reliability improvements.

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  Ultimate Driving Machine Requires Repair - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By AD - September 13 - 6:27 pm

  Without question, the finest vehicle I have ever driven or owned in terms of the driving experience. On the other hand, without question the most expensive vehicle to keep in top running condition. I purchased the car with 82k miles where the car was a single owner with all maintenance up to date. In the 15k miles I owned it, I replaced a radiator, rear brakes, oxygen sensor, air mass flow meter, belts, radiator cap and rear ball joints. Also, had multiple issues passing state inspection due to Check Engine Light (where mechanic could not fix) In comparing other Bimmer owners, my experience is consistent... Ultimate Driving Machine that is Expensive to Own

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  Now I understand ... - 1992 BMW 5-Series
  By sotampa - September 8 - 10:49 pm

  This car is not a speedster. Gearing is for practicality (wagon and touring version). This is a road car. A dream on the highway. Solid cornering. It is a GREAT car. Im up over 212,000 miles on this car and it is still GREAT! Sample problems have been: Door latch had to be replaced. Brake light module failed. Fuel pump replaced. Got to fo the a BMW pro on this car. Parts are always from the dealer. You can feel nickel and dimed (dollar and fived?). I have had several excellent up-end Japanese cars. The power is with the Japanese but the car itself along with the driveability goes to the BMW. I NEVER expected to get hooked. I am.

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  1999 BMW appraisal - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Glenda Bolin - August 31 - 7:31 pm

  I am in real estate and needed a car that was reliaable and comfortable, I got more, it looks good and is fun to drive with enough comfort and more get- up-and-go than anyone needs. It is silver in color. 4-door 528i leather seats that are heated, automatic seat adjustment and power moon roof.

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  From CL55 to BMW 545 - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Phil - August 22 - 3:21 pm

  Having come out of a CL 55 Merc. I found the BM only slightly slower. The BMs road holding is better, however its economy is the same as the 500bhp merc. The BM is a boring drive but I can live with that. I miss my TV and seat heating.

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  Fun so far - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By tkorion - August 21 - 3:43 am

  Just bought the car. body is straight and engine is clean. tranny was replaced so I hope this car will last me a few years. Id like to get 100k, but only time will tell. I love the power and handling. engine has a rattle, but Ive never owned one so not sure if its normal.

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  Great Car - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By mapin3d@comcast.net - August 20 - 12:44 pm

  Great car. Quite a few features that make this car exceptionally fun to drive. Handles nicely hugging the road with complete confidence, very responsive, quiet interior. Overall this car meets most of ones expectations of a mid sized BMW although it is slightly underpowered for its size. At 225 HP it is sometimes not quite as responsive off the line. Although once at cruising speeds, just a slight tap on the accelerator produces quick and confident acceleration. Interior is nicely appointed and not overdone.

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  One down, two to go - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By totalsystm - August 2 - 2:03 am

  545i 6-speed. Just an OK rating for a $60K+ car is sad. After a year, still not sold! Started off wrong. Ordered from the factory with, I thought, every option. Nope! At delivery and later through surprises, found out that if BMW builds it with the Navigation System (which frequently attempts to route us through Frankfurt) and the HUD (Heads up display which is great-unless you have polarized glasses, then it becomes invisible), you can not get satellite radio or simply see the names of songs or radio stations (Yes, this is with the high end Sound system option.) No MP3! BMW response, "Sorry". Custom power seats with lumbar support pretty good, but not at all good looking.