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BMW 5 Series E60 520i (170 Hp) Steptronic
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)
E60 Overview:
BMW 5 Series (E60). With 210 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1560 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 9.9 s). The top speed reaches 226 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.
520i (170 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Entry-level petrol engine, providing adequate power for city driving but feeling underpowered for spirited driving or highway overtaking.
Fuel Economy
Average fuel consumption for its power, not particularly efficient given the modest performance.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Dynamic handling and engaging driving experience across the range.
- • Wide selection of powerful and efficient engines, particularly the diesels.
- • High-quality interior materials and solid build quality.
- • Distinctive and modern styling that still holds up today.
- • Comfortable for long journeys with supportive seating.
Cons:
- • Complex electronics (iDrive, various modules) can lead to costly repairs.
- • Some engines (e.g., N62 V8, M57 diesel) have known reliability issues (valve stem seals, swirl flaps).
- • Run-flat tires can compromise ride comfort and are expensive to replace.
- • Maintenance costs can be high, especially for V8 models and complex repairs.
- • Rear legroom is adequate but not class-leading compared to some rivals.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E39, Facelift 2000: 2000 - 2003).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 5 Series |
| Generation: | E60 |
| Modification (Engine): | 520i (170 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production: | 2003 |
| End of production: | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp @ 6100 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 78.3 Hp/l [66mm more] |
| Torque: | 210 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M54B22 More details about the engine M54B22 |
| Engine displacement: | 2171 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 9.8 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 72 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.8:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 226 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1560 |
| Max. weight: | 2025 |
| Max load: | 465 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 520 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 70 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4841 mm [66mm more] |
| Width: | 1846 mm [46mm more] |
| Height: | 1468 mm [33mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2888 mm [58mm more] |
| Front track: | 1558 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1582 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 LM |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
What’s the best feature of the BMW 5 Series? Tell us in the comments!