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HistoryThe 5-series got its name by being the fifth of the "new series" cars after the V-8 and Isetta era. The preceding models were the 700, the "New Class" 1500/1600/1800/1602/2002/1502, the "New Six" 2500/2800/Bavaria and the CS. The 5-Series was intended to replace the smaller New Class sedans, leaving the coupes as the company's low-end model. The body was styled by Marcello Gandini, who also did the Fiat 132 and Alfa Romeo Alfetta, two other cars that have a very similar design. There have been five generations of the 5-Series to date. To differentiate between them, they are referred to by their unique chassis numbers (EXX). The 5-series began the BMW tradition of being named with a three-digit number. The first digit (5 in this case) represents the model, and the following two digits (usually) represent the size of the engine in decilitres, which is the main distinguishing difference. Additional letters or words may be added to the end of the three-digit number to define the fuel type (petrol or diesel), engine or transmission details, and the body style. The 'i' originally stood for (fuel) 'injection'. E12 (1972-1981)The BMW E12 was the first 5-Series BMW made. The following models were produced in this series:
E28 (1982-1988)The BMW E28 was the second BMW 5-Series and stylistically, was an evolution of the E12. The following models were sold in Europe:
The following models were sold in America:
E34 (1989-1996)For full information on this generation, see BMW E34 The fourth generation 5-Series earned awards for safety and reliability and was considered one of the most elegant shapes of its time. The following E34s were sold in America:
E39 (1997-2003)Missing image Bmw540i.JPG 2000 BMW 540i The BMW E39 was one of BMW's most successful cars, with several different models. These included:
This car has been widely praised in all aspects; many say it is the best BMW in the world. The diesels provide great torque and smoothness with great economy. The M5 has been called "the ultimate in discreet speed" with 369 lbf.ft (500 Nm) of torque and a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds. Note: The 540d was only sold in mainland Europe. The very first 1997 BMW 5-Series rolled off the assembly line on June 18, 1996. E60 (2004-present)The BMW E60 is the current BMW 5-Series. Its design and many of its advanced features have created controversy amongst BMW aficionados. It is available in the following variants:
The E60 M5, planned for a 2005 release, will be powered by a Formula 1 inspired, high-revving 5-litre V10 producing 373 kW (500 bhp). It will also have the first 7-speed SMG transmission in a production sedan. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. All wheel drive will be an option on the 5-Series for the first time in 2006. The xDrive system is shared with the X3 and X5. Models, following the company's naming scheme, will be the 525xi and 530xi. AwardsThe E39 5-Series was on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list for six years straight, from its introduction in 1997 through 2002. It was also Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1997. External linkshttp://www.bmw.com/generic/com/en/products/automobiles/showroom/mseries/m5/index.html
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