The BMW 5 Series E28 528i was a high-performance variant of the E28 generation 5-Series produced from 1981 to 1987. It featured a 2.8-liter inline-six engine that produced 143 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, mated to either a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission.
Design and Features:
- The E28 528i had a distinctive design with a long hood and short rear deck, giving it a sporty appearance.
- It featured pop-up headlights, which were a unique feature for the time period.
- The interior was upgraded with premium materials, including leather and wood trim.
- Standard equipment included power steering, power windows, and a cassette player.
Performance:
- The 2.8-liter inline-six engine provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
- The car's weight distribution was 51/49 front to rear, which helped with handling and stability.
- It had a top speed of approximately 125 mph (201 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 9 seconds.
Handling and Suspension:
- The E28 528i featured MacPherson strut suspension up front and a live rear axle, which provided good handling and stability.
- It had a relatively tight turning radius for its class, making it easy to maneuver in city driving.
- The car's handling was praised by many reviewers, who noted that it was responsive and predictable.
Safety Features:
- The E28 528i came with dual airbags as an optional feature from 1985 onwards.
- It also had a rear anti-roll bar to improve stability during hard cornering.
- The car's structure was designed to be strong and rigid, providing good protection in the event of a collision.
Reliability and Maintenance:
- The E28 528i was known for its reliability, with many owners reportedly clocking high mileage without major issues.
- Regular maintenance was necessary to keep the engine running smoothly, but parts were generally easy to find and inexpensive to purchase.
- The car's mechanical components, such as the transmission and suspension, were considered durable and long-lasting.
Collectibility:
- The E28 528i has become a sought-after collectible among BMW enthusiasts, particularly in its later years of production when it featured more aggressive styling cues.
- Prices for the car vary depending on condition, mileage, and originality, but it's generally possible to find examples in the range of $5,000-$15,000.
Notable Variants:
- In 1985, BMW introduced a high-performance variant called the 528is, which featured a 2.8-liter inline-six engine producing 168 horsepower.
- The E28 528i was also offered with a Sport package in some markets, which added features such as sport seats and a rear spoiler.
Overall, the BMW 5 Series E28 528i is a rare and desirable variant of the E28 generation, known for its high-performance capabilities, handling, and collectibility.
