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BMW 5 Series E34 525i (170 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 222 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1450 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 221 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.
525i (170 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A balanced inline-six (M20B25), offering smooth power delivery and adequate performance for most driving situations.
Fuel Economy
Reasonable fuel consumption for its size and power, a good compromise.
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(E28: 1986 - 1987).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 5 Series |
| Generation: | E34 |
| Modification (Engine): | 525i (170 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1988 |
| End of production: | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 68.2 Hp/l [100mm more] |
| Torque: | 222 Nm @ 4300 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M20B25 More details about the engine M20B25 |
| Engine displacement: | 2494 |
| 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 |
| Compression ratio: | 8:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 221 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.1 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1450 |
| Max. weight: | 1960 |
| Max load: | 510 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 460 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4720 mm mm [100mm more] |
| Width: | 1751 mm mm [51mm more] |
| Height: | 1412 mm mm [3mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2761 mm mm [136mm more] |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11 m [above average] |
| 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 [above average] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
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