BMW 5 Series E12, Facelift 1976 528i (177 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.1 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 235 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1410 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.3 s). The top speed reaches 208 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.

528i (177 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A powerful and smooth engine, offering excellent cruising ability and strong acceleration, a popular choice for its blend of performance and refinement.

Fuel Economy

Expected to be moderately thirsty, with 10.6 l/100 km, reflecting its performance-oriented nature for the era.

Best Use Case: Highway / Mixed

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: 1976 - 1977).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:E12, Facelift 1976
Modification (Engine):528i (177 Hp)
Start of production:1977
End of production:1978
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:177 Hp @ 5800 rpm.
Power per litre:63.5 Hp/l
Torque:235 Nm @ 4300 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M30B28 [Same engine] More details about the engine M30B28
Engine displacement:2788
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:5.8 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:84 mm
Compression ratio:10.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:10.6 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.3 sec
Maximum speed:208 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:8 kg/Hp, 125.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1410
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:440 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4620 mm [Same length.]
Width:1690 mm [Same width.]
Height:1425 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2636 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1406 mm
Rear (Back) track:1442 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):140 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDisc

If you could change one thing about the BMW 5 Series, what would it be?