BMW 5 Series E12 520i (130 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 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 Overview:

BMW 5 Series (E12). With 181 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1250 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11.1 s). The top speed reaches 183 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.

520i (130 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A strong mid-range performer, benefiting from fuel injection for smoother power delivery and better responsiveness than its carburetted counterparts.

Fuel Economy

Offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with fuel injection contributing to slightly better economy than the carburetted 520.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving / Balanced Performance

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Iconic styling and timeless design by Paul Bracq.
  • • Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling for its era.
  • • Robust inline-six engines known for durability and smooth power.
  • • Pioneering model for the successful 5 Series lineage.

Cons:

  • • Lacks modern safety features and driver aids.
  • • Fuel economy can be poor on higher trims by modern standards.
  • • Rust can be a significant issue on unrestored examples.
  • • Maintenance and parts for classic BMWs can be costly.

Specifications:

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:E12
Modification (Engine):520i (130 Hp)
Start of production:1972
End of production:1975
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:130 Hp @ 5800 rpm.
Power per litre:65.3 Hp/l
Torque:181 Nm @ 4500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M10B20
Engine displacement:1990
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.25 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Compression ratio:9.7:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:11.1 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:11.1 sec
Maximum speed:183 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.6 kg/Hp, 104 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.9 kg/Nm, 144.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:10.5 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1250
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:440 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4620 mm
Width:1690 mm
Height:1425 mm
Wheelbase:2636 mm
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 gears4
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDrum

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