BMW 5 Series E28 520i (125 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

8.7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 4.5 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 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)

E28 Overview:

BMW 5 Series (E28). With 170 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

520i (125 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Adequate for city driving, with the automatic transmission prioritizing smoothness over brisk acceleration.

Fuel Economy

Expected to be average, with the automatic gearbox slightly increasing fuel consumption.

Best Use Case: City Driving / Comfortable Commuting

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Timeless, elegant design with classic BMW aesthetics.
  • • Engaging driving dynamics and responsive steering.
  • • Robust and durable inline-six engines (M30, M20).
  • • Comfortable and well-built interior for its era.
  • • Strong enthusiast following and good parts availability.
  • • Potential for appreciating classic car value.

Cons:

  • • Lacks modern safety features and crash protection.
  • • Prone to rust in common areas if not maintained.
  • • Older technology, including basic infotainment and driver aids.
  • • Fuel economy can be poor on larger, performance-oriented engines.
  • • Maintenance costs can be high for neglected examples or specific parts.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E12, Facelift 1976: 1980 - 1981).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:E28
Modification (Engine):520i (125 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:1981
End of production:1987
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:125 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:62.8 Hp/l [2mm more]
Torque:170 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M20B20 More details about the engine M20B20
Engine displacement:1990
Number of cylinders:6
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
Coolant:10.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:80 mm mm
Piston Stroke:66 mm mm
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Space:
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:460 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4620 mm mm [2mm more]
Width:1700 mm mm [11mm more]
Height:1415 mm mm [7mm less]
Wheelbase:2625 mm mm [12mm less]
Front track:1430 mm
Rear (Back) track:1470 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 typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]

Rate the BMW 5 Series from 1 to 10!