Top BMW 5 Series in History

For over five decades, the BMW 5 Series has set the standard for the ultimate luxury sedan. The 5 Series offered the best of both worlds for BMW fans, as many considered it to be the perfect blend of the sportiness of the 3 Series and the luxury of the 7 Series. 

Beyond this, however, the 5 Series made a name for itself in the industry. It introduced trademark BMW features, such as the double kidney grille and the C pillar’s “Hofmeister kink.”

Representing BMW’s “New Class” concept, the 5 Series has consistently hit the mark with eight generations, but there are some models that stand out as the best.

BMW 5 E28

While the first-generation E12 introduced the BMW 5 Series to the world, it’s the second-generation E28 that solidified its place among the top sedans in the industry. The E28 featured a handful of new technology, such as cruise control, the anti-lock braking system (ABS), and the “check control” panel.

BMW debuted its first diesel engine in the 1983 E28, which had an efficient 23 mpg combined. The E28 was also the first BMW to include the iconic M5 in its lineup, setting the standard for BMW’s performance-oriented sporty sedan.

Today, a used BMW 5 Series E28 typically costs around $24,340, with some rare models selling for as high as $102,610.

• Engine Specs: 518 L4
• Weight: 2,557 lbs
• Power: 90 hp @ 5,500 RPM
• Torque: 103 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM
• 0-60 mph: 14 sec

BMW 5 E34

Introduced in 1988, the BMW 5 E34 was a game-changer for many reasons. It was the first BMW 5 Series to offer an all-wheel drive, a V8 engine, and a six-speed manual transmission. 

Despite its larger body, the E4 is much more aerodynamic than its predecessor. It has a long wheelbase and an optimum weight distribution of a 50:50 ratio between the front and rear axles.

In 1991, the BMW 5 Series introduced the Touring variant with a rear window that owners can open independently of the tailgate. In the same year, BMW also reinforced the E34’s doors with side impact protection for passenger safety. 

The third-generation BMW 5 Series’ interior also received an upgrade with a bigger and much more comfortable cabin.

• Engine Specs: 518i L4
• Weight: 3,086 lbs
• Power: 115 hp @ 5,500 RPM
• Torque: 122 lb-ft @ 4,250 RPM
• 0-60 mph: 14.1 sec

BMW 5 E39

Opinions might differ among BMW fans, but most can agree that the fourth-generation E39 was the best year for the BMW 5 Series. It offered the best of both worlds when it came to delivering that modern feel without letting go of that classic old-school vibe.

Produced from 1995 to 2004, it was the first 5 Series model to reach over 1.5 million unit sales. 

The E39 was larger than the E34 and had a modern, rounded look. It also had an upgraded aluminum suspension and a wide air intake on the bumper for improved aerodynamics. 

One of its most distinct features was its enclosed headlights with illuminated rings, earning the E39 the nickname “angel eyes.”

• Engine Specs: 520i L6
• Weight: 3,362 lbs
• Power: 170 hp @ 6,100 RPM
• Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM
• 0-60 mph: 10.2 sec

BMW 5 E60

Produced from 2003 to 2010, the BMW 5 Series E60 featured a lot of changes that some found controversial and others loved. 

The most prominent change was in its design of alternating concave and convex planes. Chris Bangle’s “flame surfacing” design wasn’t well-received at first, but the unique concept has aged well for some fans.

Aside from the major facelift, the E60 also introduced BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. It lets the driver access different features, such as the sound system, navigation maps, and various diagnostic tasks.

In 2005, BMW released the popular E60 M5, which featured a powerful five-liter V10 engine that impressed many fans. Unfortunately, it was also one of BMW’s least reliable cars.

• Engine Specs: 520i L6
• Weight: 3,241 lbs
• Power: 170 hp @ 6,100 RPM
• Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM
• 0-60 mph: 9.9 sec

BMW 5 G30

While most fans prefer the older BMW 5 Series, some prefer the modern G30, especially after later-year models received several upgrades. The G30 features a classy modern look with signature BMW features, such as a long wheelbase, a flowing roof line, and a kidney grille.

Like the F10, the G30 offers a hybrid drive for emission-free driving. It also comes with optional features, such as adaptive suspension, active steering, and other driver assistance systems. It’s also much lighter than the F10 and offers new seats for the ultimate riding comfort.

• Engine Specs: 530i L4
• Weight: 3,395 lbs
• Power: 252 hp @ 5,200 – 6,500 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1,450 – 4,800 RPM
• 0-60 mph: 6.2 sec