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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  I LOVE This Car - 1995 BMW 5-Series
  By BERTE - October 20 - 9:08 pm

  Bought Al (Alpine White) in 2002 with over 100,000 on the odo, just turned 196,000. The car is solid, well constructed, and a joy to drive once you get it going. Overall average 21 MPG, 27 MPG on the highway at 80 MPH. Replaced several T-stats, radiator, most all of the suspension parts and bushings. Have had a few issues with power windows and seats. The engine has been bulletproof. The tranny is starting to slip in reverse. I get compliments all the time about how beautiful the car looks. Its a classic! I love the car and will drive it until the wheels fall off.

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  Great ride despite high maintenance cost - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By SeanK - October 19 - 11:20 pm

  I was looking for a luxury car to modify into a performance vehicle (gs300 +turbo kit & +tranny swap). When I found this car looking for 6 speed rear wheel drives, I was immediately taken. Quick, comfortable & connected. Why buy another luxury automobile and turn it into a performance vehicle when you can buy one that is already dialed in. They are rare to find, and even more rare w/ low miles & in good condition. Car feels glued to the road at any speed the governor allows. After leaning on the throttle uphill in 6th, I realized how much power this engine has. If you understand the cost of ownership, go for it. You will not be disappointed. If you care about MPG, get a different car!

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  Worst car Ive ever owned - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Ryan - October 15 - 7:22 pm

  This is by far the worst car I have ever owned. You would think BMW would notify their customers if they had an issue with the car. The fuel injectors and the fuel pump are constantly malfunctioning and every time I take it in, they tell me there is no issue. This is my first BMW and my last.

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  Ridiculously Fun - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By W. A - October 12 - 5:15 pm

  I just purchase my first BMW (2007 550i) I test drove the 528 and did not like the lack of power. The 550i is a BEAST and is a dream to drive, I cant stay home, I take the longest way home and the acceleration is orgasmic. I will never drive another car other than a BMW. Worth every penny. Not sure what my gas mileage will be yet, but so far not bad for a V8 engine.

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  Early read - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By bigdaddio - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Accelleration is phenomenal. I umderstand now why BMWs have been flying past me. The ride is smooth! The new design is sporty and is often confused with the 7 series by people in public parking lots. There is significant curiosity about the new design. The I drive control panel feature is very functional.

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  Too many problems! - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Tooo much trouble! - October 5 - 5:34 pm

  Had more trouble out of this car than any I have ever owned. Replaced fuel pump twice which was under warranty. But dealer has not a clue what is wrong with this vehicle. My wife is the primary driver. The car idles like a model T Ford on a cold start. Dash lights up like a jukebox saying "engine misfire" on a weekly basis, and says "reducing power" and will not go faster than 25 mph. First they blamed it on a program, then fuel pumps, then the fuel, then it was ethanol. In the shop 27 days the last six months. More than 60 grand for this, what gives! Saw a lawyer last week about the lemon law. Its a shame, the car drives beautifully when its right.

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  Open your wallet - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By loberant - October 5 - 2:40 pm

  Love the car, but it breaks every 3000 miles. Both power seats needed new wiring, radiator, alarm sensor, bushings?, brake sensors, trans went into fail safe, glove box broke, oil leaks, and some other things I cant remember. This all happened in the last 15,000 miles. My vehicle currently has 75,000 miles on it. Drives great though, cannot compare. Love the look and its true class. But THIS IS NOT a reliable car. Purchase a Honda/Acura/Lexus/Toyota/Subaru if you want reliable.

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  Excellent Car - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By bmw5xi - October 4 - 12:31 am

  Waited 22000 miles before my first review. Before I test drove this car, I did not quite understand all the hype about this being the ultimate driving machine. After 22000 miles and many hours driving this car there is only one thing I can say- this car dives like no other!! I test drove the lexus GS and LS, mercedes E class, Infinity G35, M45 and Jaguar XF. This car blows them all away. Some evenings even after a tired day after work, I still look forward to taking the car out for a spin. Have had 2 minor issues with the car (faulty seat belt sensor and check engine light)-both fixed by dealer at no cost. Now I see why people fall in love with this car despite occasional minor issues!

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  It really is the Ultimate Driving Machine - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Tim in Charlotte, NC - October 3 - 4:53 pm

  I have loved it since day 1. Now has 203,000 miles and still love it. Love taking it to the mountains and pushing it to its limits. Very comfortable and easy to drive. With newer tires it rides like a dream. Only have had three issues...rear wheel sensor--$1,000 in 2005. In 2007 AC went and the repair bill was $2,500....ABS Module went...cost is going to $1,000-1,500....unfortunately repair/maintenance is starting to cost too much. Did well for several years...guess mileage is starting to show. Think I have reached my return on my investment.

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  Thanks Consumer Reports - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By bmwfan - October 2 - 10:00 am

  I was really close to buying a Mercedes CLK until I read Consumer Reports review on the 530i. This car is a dream come true - fun to drive, comfortable, fabulous looking and fast with decent fuel economy. The sport package adds icing to the cake. The 5-speed can be challenging at first, but it is so responsive that it is fun to shift. The buying experience was great. I cant say enough good about this car.