The BMW 5 Series E12 528 (1974-1978) is a mid-size executive car produced by BMW. Key features and facts about this model include:
Design and Body Style: The E12 was designed to succeed the classic New Class sedans, with an emphasis on more space for passengers and cargo, but still maintaining its dynamic proportions and design cues typical of the era's grand touring cars.
Engine Options: Engines available for the 528 E12 included a range of inline-six petrol units:
- M30B20: A smaller capacity engine displacing 2 liters (122 cu in), producing around 110 horsepower (82 kW) at 6,000 rpm.
- M30B24: A larger-capacity variant that displaced approximately 2.4 liters (146 cu in), delivering roughly 143 horsepower (106 kW) also at 6,000 rpm.
Transmission and Performance: The E12 528 was available with manual and automatic transmissions. As for performance:
- Top speed: The M30B20 version could reach speeds of up to about 170 km/h (106 mph), while the more powerful M30B24 variant reached a top speed around 190 km/h (118 mph).
Interior and Features: Inside, the E12 528 offered a more spacious interior compared to its predecessors, with an emphasis on comfort and simplicity rather than luxury. This included comfortable seating for five adults, a dashboard designed with gauges and controls easily readable by all occupants, and materials chosen for their durability as well as aesthetics.
Safety Features: As safety standards began to take center stage in automotive production during the 1970s, the E12 528 incorporated several features that were considered advanced at that time:
- Dual brake systems
- Three-point seat belts
Success and Legacy: The BMW E12 was a significant departure from its predecessors but maintained the brand's spirit of performance and style. Although less well-known than some other models in the series, it played an important role in BMW's transition to more modern designs that could meet the changing demands of consumers for comfort, space, and safety features while still delivering on performance.
The E12 528 is considered a transitional model in BMW's history, showcasing both where they came from (in terms of design philosophy and emphasis on handling) and where they were headed.
