BMW 5 Series E12 528 (165 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 238 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1385 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 9.5 s). The top speed reaches 198 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.

528 (165 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

The top-tier performer, offering robust acceleration and strong highway cruising capabilities for its time, making it a true 'driver's car'.

Fuel Economy

As the most powerful, its fuel consumption is higher, but acceptable given its performance and the technology of the era.

Best Use Case: Highway / Spirited Driving

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:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E12: 1973 - 1976).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:E12
Modification (Engine):528 (165 Hp)
Start of production:1974
End of production:1976
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:165 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:59.2 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:238 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M30B28 More details about the engine M30B28
Engine displacement:2788
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Carburettor
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:5.8 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:86 mm mm
Piston Stroke:80 mm mm
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:10.8 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.5 sec
Maximum speed:198 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:8.4 kg/Hp, 119.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.8 kg/Nm, 171.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1385
Max. weight:1840
Max load:455
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:440 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4620 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1690 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1425 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2636 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1406 mm
Rear (Back) track:1442 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):139 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 brakesDisc
Tires size195/70 R14
Wheel rims size14

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