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Trying to pick faults with the BMW 5 Series is a largely thankless task. If pushed to name a car that approaches automotive perfection, most industry observers would nominate the BMW that tops most executive wish lists. The fact that there really isn't a great deal to objectively criticise has led to the two areas that could be described as the 5 Series' Achilles heel, namely value for money and image. Premium pricing from new and high demand means that there aren't too many used bargains around, whilst many are turned off by the predictable choice, preferring something a little more individual such as the Audi A6 or Volvo S80. Still, if you want the best, here it is and here's the information you'll need to be armed with to find a good used example.
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Detailed ratings
Full-Sized Executive Cars
What you get
There aren't too many surprises with a 5 Series. You know it's going to be beautifully built, great to drive, understated and well equipped - at a price. You really can't finger a poor model in the range, although if we were being really harsh, the 525tds and two-litre 520i aren't the most inspiring drives. The 530d and 540i are the highlights for the mainstream buyer, with the M5 deserving honourable mention for its sheer all-round dynamic excellence.
Once you've chosen your engine, is it worth choosing manual or auto? The auto boxes are good, and the larger engined models (528i and above) suit the automatic best. With less power at your disposal, opt for a manual. SE specification model boost the basic trim to the tune of more attractive wheels, halogen foglamps, air conditioning or sunroof and an on-board computer. After September 1997, that list also included a multi-function steering wheel, whilst in September 1998 parking distance control and a redesigned alloy wheel featured. Sport trim includes M-sports suspension, 17-inch light alloy wheels, body colour bumpers and side skirts, fog lights, air conditioning, Stability and Traction control and so on. If you can afford it, the Sport specification pack gives you practically the entire list of extras on BMW's options list.
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What to look for
Just about the only problem reported with the 5 Series has been sticking valves on early 528i models, caused by running them on high sulphur petrol. Most of the cars you'll come across will still be covered under warranty, and the service history should carry the stamps of franchised dealers or well-respected specialists. When paying this sort of money you should expect the best and negotiate big discounts for tired interiors or less than cosmetically perfect bodywork. Avoid dull colours and be aware that V8-engined models won't be so easy to sell on.
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Replacement parts
(approx based on a 520i SE ) BMW spares have gained an enviable reputation for quality and value and consumables are distinctly affordable. A air filter is around £15, whilst you'll pay a similar amount for a fuel filter. Oil filters are around £6, whilst spark plugs are £17. A replacement cam belt is around £24.
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On the road
Even the base models offer respectable performance, although if you can afford it, try to stretch to the 2.2-litre 520i over the basic 2.0-litre variant. All engines are impressive, the 530i mid-ranger offering performance that betters many rivals so called performance models, with rest to sixty occupying around seven seconds on the way to an electronically-limited maximum of 155mph. These are the kind of figures that make you wonder why anyone bothers with the 286bhp V8-powered 540i, which continues at the top of the range beneath the all-conquering 400bhp M5 super saloon.
Of course, speed isn't everything. Even boardroom executives are coming round to the benefits of diesel power, thanks to the huge advances in refinement and performance introduced to the luxury sector in recent times. With the original 5 Series, BMW's 530d led the way, the first car of its kind that could truly satisfy the Director needing to combine 140mph performance with 40mpg parsimony. The facelifted version is just as impressive - and even faster, with output up 9bhp to 193bhp. Even now, with BMW however, the only issue is price. The 525d is also pretty rapid, reaching 60mph in 8.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 136mph, yet manages a combined consumption figure of 42.2mpg, giving an effective range of 650 miles.
Opt for the M5 and you get the sort of performance that embarrasses many temperamental two-seat exotics. With 400bhp on tap, the M5 will accelerate to its 155mph maximum accompanied by a magnificent hard-edged V8 soundtrack. Sixty mph is despatched in just over five seconds and the handling is particularly exciting if you enjoy switching off the traction control, drifting it sideways and receiving big Amex bills for tyres.
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Overall
A used 5 Series is one of the most straightforward propositions around. If you want the best, you have to pay for it. Anything else seems a little underdeveloped. Best buys? Early 530d if you have an aversion to garage forecourts or a 523i for a good power/value compromise.
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