BMW is an internationally acclaimed German carmaker famous for its performance and driving dynamics. Offering high-end SUVs, coupes and sedans, the brand is also quite popular in the UAE auto market. Out of the BMW’s many popular line-ups is the 5-Series. The nameplate comprises executive cars known for their state-of-the-art features. The timeline of the BMW 5-Series began in the latter half of the twentieth century and the line-up is now in its seventh generation.
Let’s take you back in time and explore the BMW 5-Series history, generation by generation.
BMW 5-Series History Timeline & Facts
BMW 5-Series was introduced as the successor of the New Class Sedan, a line-up discontinued in the early 1970s. This is how the story of 5-Series began.
BMW 5-Series First Generation (1972-1981)
Designed by Paul Bracq, the bold concept of the BMW 5-Series was first displayed in 1970. Replacing the New Class Sedan, the 5-Series automotive prototype went into production in 1972. The front facia of the car was crowned with the iconic twin-round headlights of the early BMW era. The character lines of the car were accentuated by chromed elements. The car’s aerodynamics were complemented by the slop trunk.
The initial models of the 5-Series had four-cylinder engines. However, the line-up was upgraded to a six-cylinder engine a year later. The M5 sedan didn’t exist at that time, however, there was the E12 M535i model. Introduced in 1980, the BMW E12 M535i was a high-performing car with a five-speed manual transmission. The car’s drivability was enhanced by the limited-slip differential feature.
BMW 5-Series Second Generation (1981-1988)
In 1981, the 5-Series underwent a notable design change. Although the car maintained its characteristic forward-leaning front fascia, it adopted a few elements from the smaller BMW 3-Series. According to the history of the BMW 3-Series, the compact sedan line-up was also introduced in the 1970s.
The line-up came with the quad-headlamp setup connected to the signature ‘kidney’ car grille. There was a wrapped-around plastic design with chromed strips and a rubber area. It replaced the metallic bumper to enhance safety and overall appearance. It was a significant development in the history of the BMW 5-Series. However, metallic bumpers are among the classic car features we miss today.
BMW 5-Series Third Generation (1988-1995)
The trend of the premium midsize sedan became widely popular in the mid-1980s. In the wake of this development, the third generation of the BMW 5-Series got a sportier design and features. The BMWs continued evolving in the wake of growing competition in the executive car segment.
The third generation retained the front with a four-round headlight design. The line-up came with a wide and narrow grille. The silver or body-coloured rim options for the BMW ‘kidneys’ made them more prominent. The car instrument cluster of the 5-Series in the late 1980s featured the ‘fuel economy’ dial. It displayed the information for instant fuel consumption.
The first 5-Series was introduced with an all-wheel drive system for a 2.5-litre petrol engine in 1988. Besides the standard five-speed manual transmission, the 540i model of the series came with a six-speed unit. There was also the option of 4- and 5-speed auto transmission in some models. The noteworthy differences between auto and manual cars allowed automakers to target different market segments.
BMW 5-Series Fourth Generation (1995-2003)
The fourth-generation BMW 5-Series (E39), produced from 1995 to 2003, introduced significant design and engineering advancements that further strengthened the model’s reputation. Building on BMW’s rich heritage, the E39 became one of the most acclaimed executive sedans of its era.
One of the most noticeable changes was the redesigned front end, featuring smoother contours and a more aerodynamic shape that gave the car a modern appearance compared to its boxier predecessor. The model range also expanded, offering a variety of powertrains from efficient four-cylinder engines to powerful V8 units.
In 1998, BMW introduced the high-performance E39 M5 sedan, powered by a 4.9-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine. Renowned for its blend of luxury, practicality and performance, the E39 M5 remains one of the most celebrated sports sedans ever produced. Although BMW created an M5 Touring prototype, it never entered series production.
BMW 5-Series Fifth Generation (2003-2009)
The Flame-surfacing design by Chris Bangle influenced the BMW lineup in 2003. The fifth generation of the 5-Series was touched by this unique design language. The result was the E60 M5 model, which was characterised by its dragon-style headlights. It is one of the many interesting facts about the BMW M cars.
Among the BMW 5-Series generations, the E60 M5 featured BMW iDrive. It was a hi-tech in-car communication system. Alongside the E-60, there was also the station wagon of the E-61 Touring. Both the cars were powered by BMW’s S85 V10 engine.
To add to the driving experience, the car offered a host of ADAS features. Adaptive headlights, night vision, active headrests and lane departure warning, among other features, were available in the 5-Series. As the evolution of the BMW 5-Series progressed, the all-wheel drive also made a comeback. It was introduced in the fifth generation as the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
BMW 5-Series Sixth Generation (2009-2017)
The sixth generation of the BMW 5-Series was rolled out with Grand Tourismo (GT). The new car body type was an addition to the sedan and station wagon (Touring) line-up. The design of the new GT model took us back to the origin of the BMW 5-Series. With a similar kidney grille-adorned front fascia, the GT and other new 5-Series models had a bigger footprint.
The F07, F08, F10 and F11 models of the BMW M5 were introduced in the sixth generation. Out of the said models, the F10 was the first 5-Series model to be equipped with a hybrid drivetrain. The car also came with a turbocharged engine matted to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Many other noteworthy features were added to the lineup, such as a dual-clutch transmission and active steering. Some models also offered a parking assistant, which further enhanced the cruising comforts. The athletic silhouette of the 5-Series vehicle was further complemented by the optional 18-inch alloy wheels. One can also compare the steel vs alloy wheels to figure out how these two options impact a car’s appearance.
BMW 5-Series Seventh Generation (2017-Present)
The historical overview of the BMW 5-series reveals that the lineup has reached its seventh generation. Amid all these years, many BMW 5-Series sedan generations were rolled out. The cutting-edge specs of the latest generation hint at the long-tailed evolution. Introduced in 2017, the seventh generation brought a more refined look to the table.
To complement the chunkier design of the newer models, the brand’s signature kidney grille is now larger than ever. Moreover, the 2020 model year was equipped with BMW’s M Sport Package and a revamped design.
Besides hybrid vehicles, electric cars have made it to the lineup of the BMW 5-Series. The EV comes with a host of hi-tech interior and exterior features for excellent driving and infotainment experience. Owing to these noteworthy features, the BMW 5-Series has made the list of top luxury sedans under AED 200k.
FAQs
When did the BMW 5-Series start?
Replacing the New Class Sedan lineup, the BMW 5-Series was launched in 1972. With a unique design created by Paul Bracq, the series targeted the executive sedan segment.
Which 5-Series model is best?
Known to offer a swift, smooth and refined driving experience, all the BMW 5-Series models stand out in their league. To explore different models of the lineup, browse these used BMW 5-Series cars for sale in the UAE.
Is the BMW 5-Series a luxury car?
Yes, BMW 5-Series is a luxury sedan car series. Also, it is among the most popular used luxury sedans with GCC specs.
This brings us to the end of the BMW 5-series history timeline. Besides the flagship lineups, there are a few other popular brands owned by BMW. The car brand has established its strong presence in the luxury car segment. The celebrated automotive marque has also made the list of popular German car brands in the UAE.
A wide range of BMW nameplates are available across the UAE. To own your desired car on a budget, you can buy a used BMW car in the UAE.
For more updates on the specs for all BMW 5-Series generations, keep following dubizzle’s auto blog.
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