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 old car - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By Nick - March 26 - 5:52 pm

  I bought this car used with over 200k on it, and have driven it almost 20k since. A few minor problems, nothing major but the car is 14 years old. Car is powerful, A/C is ice cold, and the trip computer is accurate. Lots of technology in this car.

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  Fun but expensive - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By ServicePatrol - March 23 - 5:05 pm

  Owned the 528 with M sport package, The sport package is a must if you really wanted to experience true BMW performance. Definitely consider snow tires if you live in wintery climate. This car is great HOWEVER I hope you make good money because you will need it... an oil change alone is $135.00. All I can say is it doesnt get serviced that often but when it does be prepared to shell out the cash. You are better off to have your "out of warranty" Beemer service at a reputable european car service center. back to performance it is 2nd to none.

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  Considerations when choosing - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Oscarcat - March 22 - 11:55 am

  The 530i is the most balanced of the 5 series meaning good performance & the ability to get good fuel economy. Sports suspension is a case where less is more. These cars already handle well, sports suspension makes the ride stiff. Bolsters on the sports seats makes entry and exit more difficult. (Sports suspension is distinguished by the black trim above the windows, 7 spoke wheels and contoured frt seat bolsters.) Early pdn 06 530s had traditional key start later models had push button start/stop. IDrive: basic music and HVAC functions can be handled by dash controls complex functions by iDrive. IDrive may not be good for occasional drivers who could be distracted by it. Fun car!

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  530i - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By runna252 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  The car! Drove High perfomance police vehicles, Acuras etc, nothing on the road compares to the the 5 ( my 2nd one)

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  Improved E39 - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Dantheman - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Just changed my E39 528 for E60 E60...completely happy with design. I loved my E39 but was outdated...the E60 is getting more and more attention from people. I love the new style...it will be another classic. Same fun driving this car...I passed on the the adaptative driving...can t improve something that s perfect. looking rward to ne next 3 years of fun driving

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  Rockin - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Robert - March 14 - 10:44 pm

  This is the perfect car. Handles awesome, the combination of power versus fuel economy is phenomenal and the quietness and comfortable ride are totally there. Not to mention badass looks! The car is gorgeous. I have the black with tan interior. Nothing on the road is as beautiful except maybe the Benz 500. This thing runs like mad when you want and smooth as can be when you want to lay back. Stable as can be under rough pavement and braking is first rate. My former car was a 3 series and I miss the razor sharp handling, but the 3 was a little "touchy". Not so with the 530i. I have the premium package, the regular sound system is ok with me and the seats are very comfortable.

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  Brace yourself - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Hang on - March 12 - 12:29 am

  Bought the 99 540i-6speed w M-Sport suspension 2 months ago with 137K. I didnt have the BMW bug until I went with my son to test drive one. A month later I bought this car. Doing all the maintenance myself. I saw the previous owner was spending $$$ on maintenance, at the dealership. The trip to work has never been the same since. Everyday I get out of the car absolutely amazed. Accelerates like a space shuttle, turns like a cat, shifts flawlessly ...this cars performance is awe inspiring. I am sure there are faster cars, but nothing will touch it under $50K. Something will go wrong, I am sure. When it does, I will just recall this wonderful feeling and repair her back to original -)

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  Really nice ride - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By David Lagarde - March 10 - 6:57 pm

  I am 56 and havent enjoyed driving this much since I was 19 yrs old and owned a 1997 Chevelle 396 SS. I wish I had more places to go. I cant think of any negatives.

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  Good commuter so far - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Eric - March 6 - 8:16 pm

  Ive always liked this body style- more so than the new 5 series. I found this grey one in fine shape at 88K miles. It handles very nicely and is so sneaky quiet Ive got to be careful not to speed too much. I got 29.5 mpg going to Florida over holidays and was so shocked I checked it again for 2 more tanks of gas. Same, over 29 mpg each time. Wow. Ive had to replace 2 power steering hoses and oil filter manifold gasket for $800. All else is good so far at 91,000 miles. Car alarm goes off sometimes needlessly which is annoying. Id like to to disable it. Motor on.

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  Wagons are Back - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By Kelly - February 25 - 10:35 pm

  Love driving the 525 wagon. It has the utility of an SUV with better gas mileage, lower insurance rates, and great handling & performance. Always have sufficient power when needed. Originally bought the wagon for our dog (in our 20s, no kids), but now wouldnt go without a BMW wagon! Would have never expected strangers to stop us on the street complimenting a wagon, but this happens frequently. Were already planning an upgrade to the 08 535xi Sports Wagon!