BMW , 5 Series , E28 , 520i (1981-1988)

The BMW 5 Series E28 520i is a high-performance luxury sedan produced from 1981 to 1988. It was the first generation of the 5 Series range and marked a significant departure from the company's traditional design language.

Design and Features:

• The E28 520i features a distinctive angular design, with a long hood and short rear deck. The car's proportions are characterized by a low roofline, large windows, and a prominent front grille.
• The interior is luxurious and spacious, with a range of trim options available including wood veneer, leather upholstery, and optional power steering.
• Standard features include AM/FM radio, clock, and intermittent wipers. Optional features include air conditioning, cruise control, and an onboard computer.

Performance:

• The 520i is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 115 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque.
• The car's fuel economy is estimated at around 25-30 mpg in combined driving.
• The E28 520i features a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with a four-speed automatic available as an option.

Handling and Safety:

• The E28 520i has a reputation for exceptional handling and agility, thanks to its rear-wheel drive layout, limited slip differential, and MacPherson strut suspension.
• The car's safety features include dual airbags (optional), anti-lock braking system (ABS) (optional), and a reinforced body structure.

Trim Levels:

• The E28 520i was available in three trim levels:
  • Base model with standard equipment
  • L (Luxus) trim, which adds leather upholstery, power steering, and other luxury features
  • SE (Sport-Equipment) trim, which includes sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and a unique exterior appearance package

Models and Production Numbers:

• The E28 520i was produced from 1981 to 1988, with over 230,000 units manufactured worldwide.
• Various special editions were released throughout the production run, including the rare and highly sought-after "Dakar" model.

Interesting Facts:

• The E28 520i was a pioneering effort in terms of aerodynamics, featuring a unique air dam at the front bumper to reduce drag.
• The car's engine was based on the successful M10 unit used in earlier BMW models, but with significant modifications to improve performance and efficiency.