1997-2003 BMW 5-Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Introduced in spring of 1996 as an early '97 model, the redesigned midlevel BMW sedan showed evolutionary styling changes rather than a dramatic difference. Offered only as a sedan, wheelbase grew by 2.7 inches and overall length by 2.2 inches.The new 5-Series came in two forms: with a 6-cylinder engine as the 528i, or powered by a V8 as the 540i. Both were enlargements of the engines used in the prior 5-Series generation. The 2.8-liter, dual-overhead-camshaft 6-cylinder engine made 190 horsepower, versus 282 horsepower for the 4.4-liter V8. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard on the 528i, with 4-speed automatic optional. The 540i, in contrast could have either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment on both models included dual front and side airbags, antilock brakes, and traction control. Rivals include the Acura RL, Lexus GS 300, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.