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BMW 5 Series E12, Facelift 1976 M535i (218 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW 5 Series:
The BMW 5 Series is an executive car manufactured and marketed by BMW since 1972. It is the successor to the BMW New Class sedans and is currently in its eighth generation. The car is sold as either a sedan or, since 1991, a station wagon. A 5-door fastback was sold between 2009 and 2017. Each successive generation has been given an internal G-code designation since 2017. Previously, a F-code designation was used between 2010 and 2016, while an E-code designation was used between 1972 and 2010. These are used to distinguish each model and generation from each other....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E12, Facelift 1976 Overview:
BMW 5 Series (E12, Facelift 1976). With 305 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1390 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.2 s). The top speed reaches 229 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
M535i (218 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The M535i was the performance king of the E12, offering exhilarating acceleration and a potent inline-six engine, making it a true driver's car for enthusiasts.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy was secondary to performance, expected to be high given its power output and the technology of the era.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless, elegant design with classic BMW styling cues.
- • Engaging driving dynamics and responsive steering for its time.
- • Range of smooth and powerful inline-six engines, especially the M30.
- • Solid build quality and robust mechanicals.
Cons:
- • Lacks modern safety features and driver aids.
- • Fuel economy can be high, particularly for larger engines.
- • Rust can be a significant issue on unrestored examples.
- • Interior comfort and features are basic by today's standards.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E12, Facelift 1976: 1978 - 1981).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 5 Series |
| Generation: | E12, Facelift 1976 |
| Modification (Engine): | M535i (218 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1980 |
| End of production: | 1981 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 218 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 63.1 Hp/l [2mm less] |
| Torque: | 305 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M30B35M More details about the engine M30B35M |
| Engine displacement: | 3453 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.75 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 7.2 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 229 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.4 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.8 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1390 |
| Max. weight: | 1900 |
| Max load: | 510 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 620 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4618 mm mm [2mm less] |
| Width: | 1689 mm mm [1mm less] |
| Height: | 1422 mm mm [3mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2637 mm mm [1mm more] |
| Front track: | 1422 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1455 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 152 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the BMW 5 Series!