BMW , 5 Series , E12 , 520i (1972-1977) Little Known Facts

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The BMW 5 Series E12 520i was produced from 1972 to 1976.
It came with a 1994 cc inline-6 engine that produced 123 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 153 Nm of torque at 3000 rpm.
The car's top speed was electronically limited to 115 mph (185 km/h).
The E12 520i had a rear-wheel drive layout with a 2-speed automatic transmission as an option.
The base price in 1972 was approximately $3,795.
In its first year, the car could reach 0-60 mph in about 11 seconds.
The interior featured vinyl upholstery on the seats and carpets, with dashboard trim made of wood or walnut.
Air conditioning was not standard but available as a $400 option.
A three-speed manual transmission came standard, while the four-speed manual was optional.
A 3-speed automatic transmission was also available for an additional cost.
The exterior design of the E12 series had distinct bumpers and rectangular headlights.
In 1975, BMW updated the car's front fascia with a slight revision to the grille.
The 520i came in a variety of colors including but not limited to: Cosmos Black, Alpen Weis, Beryll Silver Metallic, Sunshine Yellow, and Loden Green.
Production for the E12 series ended in July 1977, with approximately 1 million units made worldwide during its lifespan.
The E12's handling was praised by critics and enthusiasts alike, earning it a reputation as one of the best-driving cars of its class at the time.
A rare "Group 5" version of the E12 existed, featuring lightweight bodywork, racing suspension, and other modifications made for competition use.
This Group 5 model produced around 250 horsepower thanks to a number of engine upgrades.
In some markets, the car was marketed as an "Executive Class" rather than its actual category as a mid-size executive car.
The E12 received updates throughout its production run including a revised exhaust system and new interior trim options.
This model's influence can be seen in BMW's later models such as the 3 Series E30 and further iterations of the 5 Series, showcasing its status as an evolutionary step for the company.