BMW 5 Series Touring (E34) 525tds (143 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.2 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 2.5 / 5
Value 3.7 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.2 / 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)

Touring (E34) Overview:

BMW 5 Series (Touring (E34)). With 260 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 11.6 s). The top speed reaches 202 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

525tds (143 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

This diesel engine provides strong low-end torque, making it excellent for relaxed cruising and capable of handling heavy loads or towing with ease.

Fuel Economy

Outstanding fuel efficiency at 7.2 l/100 km, making it the most economical choice for long-distance travel and high mileage drivers.

Best Use Case: Highway / Long Distance

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Classic BMW driving dynamics and handling
  • • Robust build quality and timeless design
  • • Spacious and practical Touring (estate) body style
  • • Wide range of powerful and efficient engine options
  • • Comfortable and well-appointed interior for its era

Cons:

  • • Age-related maintenance and potential for rust
  • • Fuel economy on larger petrol engines can be high
  • • Lack of modern safety features and driver aids
  • • Interior plastics can show wear over time
  • • Finding well-maintained examples can be challenging

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E34: 1989 - 1995).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:Touring (E34)
Modification (Engine):525tds (143 Hp)
Start of production:1991
End of production:1997
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:143 Hp @ 4800 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:57.2 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:260 Nm @ 2200 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M51D25 More details about the engine M51D25
Engine displacement:2498
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:OHC
Engine oil capacity:6.75 l
Coolant:9.75 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:80 mm mm
Piston Stroke:82.8 mm mm
Compression ratio:22:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.2 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:11.6 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:11.6 sec
Maximum speed:202 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10.9 kg/Hp, 91.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:11 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1560
Max. weight:2110
Max load:550
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:910 l
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:1417 mm mm [5mm more]
Wheelbase:2761 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1470 mm
Rear (Back) track:1495 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 brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/65 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionSpring Strut

Behind the wheel of the BMW 5 Series. How does it handle on the road?