BMW , 5 Series , E12 , 528i (1977-1981)

The BMW 5 Series E12 528i was a high-performance variant of the E12 5 Series produced from 1977 to 1981. It was powered by a 2.8L inline-six engine producing 142 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 4-speed manual transmission as standard.

Engine:

• Type: M28B inline-six
• Displacement: 2.792 liters (171 cu in)
• Power: 105 kW (142 hp) at 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 223 Nm (165 lb-ft) at 4,500 rpm
• Fuel system: Dual Zenith-Stromberg carburetors

Transmission and Drivetrain:

• Transmission: 4-speed manual with overdrive as standard, optional 3-speed automatic with torque converter lock-up
• Rear axle ratio: 3.73:1 (standard), 3.91:1 (optional)
• Drive type: Rear-wheel drive

Interior and Features:

• Interior design: Upscale, ergonomic design with comfortable seating for four passengers
• Trim levels: LHD (left-hand drive) only; 'base' model with minimal trim, 'highline' model with upgraded interior and additional features
• Optional features: Air conditioning, power steering, electric windows, rear window wiper, sunroof

Exterior and Dimensions:

• Length: 4,544 mm (179.3 in)
• Width: 1,744 mm (68.7 in)
• Height: 1,418 mm (55.8 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,671 mm (105.0 in)

Safety Features:

• Dual airbags as an option from 1979
• Three-point seat belts for driver and front passenger

Handling and Performance:

• Suspension: Independent rear suspension with trailing arms and Panhard rod
• Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes on the front, drum brakes on the rear (standard); optional front ventilated discs in the later models
• 0-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration: Approximately 8.5 seconds (claimed)
• Top speed: 117 mph (189 km/h), electronically limited

Production and Sales:

• Produced from 1977 to 1981 at BMW's Dingolfing factory in Germany
• Estimated production volume: around 55,000 units worldwide during the five-year production run