Click on image to view the full photo gallery
BMW 5 Series E34 518i (115 Hp)
Overall Rating
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)
E34 Overview:
BMW 5 Series (E34). With 168 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1360 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 12.3 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.
518i (115 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Entry-level performance (M40B18), adequate for city driving but struggles on highways or with heavier loads.
Fuel Economy
Relatively economical for the E34 range, making it a budget-friendly option.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Classic BMW driving dynamics and handling
- • Robust build quality and durable chassis
- • Comfortable and well-appointed interior for its era
- • Wide range of powerful and refined engine options (especially M50/M60)
- • Timeless and elegant design
- • Good parts availability for maintenance and restoration
Cons:
- • Fuel economy can be poor on larger petrol engines
- • Potential for rust, especially in older, neglected examples
- • Aging electronics and wiring can lead to issues
- • Maintenance costs can be high if not properly cared for
- • Lack of modern safety features compared to contemporary vehicles
- • Some M40/M20 engines can be prone to specific wear issues
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E34: 1988 - 1991).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 5 Series |
| Generation: | E34 |
| Modification (Engine): | 518i (115 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1989 |
| End of production: | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 115 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 64 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 168 Nm @ 3900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M43B18 More details about the engine M43B18 |
| Engine displacement: | 1796 |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain: | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4 l |
| Coolant: | 6.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 81 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.7:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 198 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 11.7 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1360 |
| Max. weight: | 1870 |
| Max load: | 510 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 460 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4720 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1751 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1412 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2761 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1470 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1495 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
Is the BMW 5 Series your dream ride or just a daily drive? Let's talk!