The BMW E28 525i was a sedan produced from 1981 to 1987. It was part of the 5th generation of the 5 Series and marked a significant update over its predecessor.
Design and Features:
- Length: 4,643 mm (183 in), width: 1,734 mm (68.3 in), and height: 1,412 mm (55.6 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,631 mm (103.5 in)
- Kerb weight: approximately 1,400 kg (3,086 lbs)
- Front track: 1,514 mm (59.6 in), rear track: 1,502 mm (59.1 in)
- Ground clearance: 145 mm (5.7 in)
The E28's design was characterized by a more angular and aggressive front end, with a distinctive "shark nose" featuring quad headlights. The sides had a slight kink at the C-pillar, creating a visual connection between the rear window and the trunk lid.
Engine and Performance:
- Engine: M20B25 (2.5L inline-4) and M20B28 (2.8L inline-6) were available options
- Power output:
- M20B25: 143 PS (105 kW; 141 bhp)
- M20B28: 168 PS (123 kW; 166 bhp)
- Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatic
Suspension, Brakes, and Wheels:
- Suspension: MacPherson strut front, semi-trailing arm rear
- Brake system: Disc brakes all around with power assistance from the engine's vacuum (optional)
- Wheels: 6J x 14-inch steel wheels as standard; optional 7J x 15-inch alloys
Interior and Features:
- Interior design updated to include more rounded shapes and a wrap-around dashboard
- Seating capacity: 5 people, with an optional rear bench seat or individual reclining seats
- Infotainment options included a basic AM/FM radio and an optional cassette player; no CD players available during this period
- Air conditioning and sunroof were also optional features
Safety Features:
- Dual airbags for driver and passenger (optional)
- Three-point seatbelts for all occupants (driver's was lap-and-diagonal, while passengers' were three-point)
The BMW E28 525i provided improved comfort, fuel efficiency, and performance compared to the outgoing E12. It served as a crucial stepping stone for the BMW brand's entry into the executive sedan market and played a significant role in establishing the company's reputation for building high-performance vehicles with exceptional handling capabilities.
Trim Levels:
- Base model (non-cat) had a basic interior, manual transmission, and non-catalytic converter
- Sport model featured sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and improved aerodynamics
- SE/L model offered an upgraded interior package, but no performance enhancements
- Deluxe model included additional features like air conditioning, sunroof, and leather upholstery (optional)
Warranty and Maintenance:
- BMW's basic warranty provided 2 years/24,000 miles coverage for engine, transmission, and electrical components; the drivetrain was covered for 3 years/50,000 miles
- Regular maintenance intervals were every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, depending on driving conditions
Production Numbers:
- The E28 platform produced over 700,000 units during its lifespan (1981-1987)
The BMW E28 525i offered a unique blend of performance, comfort, and style that contributed significantly to the brand's success in the early 1980s. Its handling capabilities were renowned for being agile and responsive, making it an enthusiast's favorite among executive sedans during its production period.
