BMW 5 Series E28 524d (86 Hp)


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 153 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1330 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 18.1 s). The top speed reaches 164 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.

524d (86 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 2 stars

Performance Verdict

Basic performance, designed purely for economy and durability rather than speed, resulting in very leisurely acceleration.

Fuel Economy

Excellent fuel economy, making it a highly cost-effective option for long-distance travel.

Best Use Case: Economical Commuting / Long-distance Cruising (relaxed)

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(E28: 1985 - 1987).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:E28
Modification (Engine):524d (86 Hp)
Start of production:1986
End of production:1987
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:86 Hp @ 4600 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:35.2 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:153 Nm @ 2500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M21D24 More details about the engine M21D24
Engine displacement:2443
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:5.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:80 mm
Piston Stroke:81 mm
Compression ratio:22:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.5 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:18.1 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:18.1 sec
Maximum speed:164 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:15.5 kg/Hp, 64.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:8.7 kg/Nm, 115 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:17.2 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1330
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:460 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4620 mm [Same length.]
Width:1700 mm [Same width.]
Height:1415 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2625 mm [Same wheelbase.]
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 gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDisc

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