1990-1996 BMW 5-Series: Road Test

Updated: 11/23/08

1990 BMW 535i 4-door sedan
1996 BMW 5-Series
View the Photo Gallery

1990-1996 BMW 5-Series 

  • Price Range:  $1,000 - $8,800
CG Rating

51

out of 100

About our Road Test

Pricing

Explore

Related to BMW 5-Series

Related Reviews

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 1990-1996 BMW 5-Series includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1996 BMW 5-Series and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1996 BMW 5-Series is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Acceleration from the 535i is brisk, and passing power impressive, but the automatic transmission does not always cooperate. At times it changes gears too soon and is slow to downshift for passing. All 6-cylinder engines are at their best at high speeds or with a manual transmission. We averaged 16.9 mpg in an automatic 535i, and it requires premium fuel. Handling is fluid and responsive, with ample grip and minimal body roll. The sedans ride tautly but comfortably, and noise levels are low. Stopping power is stunning, helped by all-disc antilock braking. BMW beat the Japanese handily in suspension sophistication. That means suppleness over bumps and taut control at speed, accompanied by precise steering. Driver confidence is enhanced by the no-nonsense dashboard, supportive seats, and fine visibility. These midsize sedans seat four in comfort, five in a pinch. Rear-seat leg room is not the most generous, whereas head room is adequate all around. Both V8 models are reasonably smooth and provide ample power at all speeds. We clocked a 540i with automatic at 7.1 seconds to 60 mph. Unfortunately, that car averaged just 15.7 mpg. Six-cylinder cars promise the same enthusiast-oriented road manners as the V8 models, but their engine trades somewhat higher gas mileage for a noticeable loss of acceleration, especially for midrange passing with automatic transmission.
Value for the Money
These midrange BMWs are thoughtfully designed and highly capable. Few sedans can match their supple suspension, comfortable seats, and precise steering. You also get robust construction and excellent detail finish. Yet, these cars lag behind such competitors as Lexus and Infiniti in overall value.
Advertisement

Expert Ratings Summary

Category BMW 540i Rating
Performance 7
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 5
Steering/Handling/Braking 7
Quietness 5
Controls/Materials 5
Interior Room 6
Room/Comfort (rear) 4
Cargo Capacity 4
Value within Class 5
Total Score: 51

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

Car Buying Resources

Trade-in Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth.

Trade-in Calculator

Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer.

Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. The first...

Get a CARFAX report

What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn Things

Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance

Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers.

Sell Your Car

Search
Local Listings


to

submit

Vehicle
History Report

CARFAX

FREE CARFAX Record Check

Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.

Go
Advertisement
Advertisement