The BMW 5 Series E39 528i is a rear-wheel drive executive car produced from 1995 to 2001. It was the second generation of the E39 series and marked a significant improvement over its predecessor in terms of design, performance, and features.
Engine
The 528i was powered by a 2.8-liter inline-six cylinder engine (M52TU) that produced 193 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 208 Nm (153 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine featured BMW's VANOS variable valve timing system and an aluminum crankcase.
Transmission
The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, but a four-speed automatic and a six-speed Getrag manual were also available as options.
Performance
The 528i accelerated from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.3 seconds and had a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The car's performance was enhanced by its weight distribution, which was almost perfectly balanced between the front and rear axles.
Handling
The E39 528i featured BMW's renowned handling and agility, making it a joy to drive on both twisty roads and motorways. The car's suspension consisted of MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link setup at the rear, which provided excellent damping and stability.
Interior and Features
The interior of the E39 528i was designed with comfort and sophistication in mind. It featured premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and power-adjustable seats with lumbar support. Standard features included air conditioning, cruise control, and a CD player.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the E39 528i was sleek and aerodynamic, with a sloping roofline and a distinctive front bumper design featuring a large kidney grille and round fog lights.
Safety Features
As a safety feature, the E39 528i came equipped with dual airbags, ABS, and traction control. The car also featured BMW's Electronic Damping Control (EDC) system, which helped to improve handling stability.
Reliability and Maintenance
The E39 528i was known for its reliability and low maintenance costs, making it a popular choice among drivers. However, some owners reported issues with the VANOS variable valve timing system, which could lead to engine problems if not properly maintained.
Warranty and Support
BMW offered a comprehensive warranty program for the E39 528i, including a three-year/100,000 km (62,000 mile) new car warranty and a five-year/100,000 km (62,000 mile) maintenance package.
Overall, the BMW 5 Series E39 528i is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, comfortable, and performance-oriented executive car. Its rear-wheel drive layout, inline-six engine, and well-tuned suspension make it a joy to drive on both twisty roads and motorways.
