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Summary
Great cars abound in the mid-size sedan segment, but the BMW 5 Series remains the benchmark for luxury sports sedans. The 5 Series is getting a bit long in the tooth, however, and we are beginning to look for a new-generation 5 Series sometime soon, possibly for model-year 2003.Offering exemplary handling, the current 5 Series models track like they're on rails when driving around fast sweepers. Their suspensions offer a great balance between controlled ride quality and precise handling. The optional sports suspension is on the firm side and transmits road imperfections.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Sedans: 525i ($36,595); 530i ($40,095); 540iA ($51,745); 540i ($54,545) / Wagons: 525iT ($37,770); 540iT ($54,245) |
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Engines:
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3.0-liter dohc 24v inline-6 |
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Transmissions:
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5-speed Steptronic automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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ABS with dynamic brake control, all-season traction control (AST), dynamic stability control, two-stage Smart dual front airbags, front door-mounted side-impact airbags, head protection system |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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rear-seat side-impact airbags |
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Basic Warranty:
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4 years/50,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Munich, Germany |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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530i ($40,095) |
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Standard Equipment:
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dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-speaker AM/FM/cassette stereo, pre-wiring for cellular telephone, power moonroof, remote keyless entry, power windows with all-window express down, power mirrors with automatic tilt-down of right mirror when backing up, power central door locks, onboard computer, alloy wheels (parallel spoke), power tilt/telescopic adjustable steering column, air filtration system, cruise control, electric rear window defroster, fog lights, roadside assistance |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Steptronic transmission ($1275); Sport Package ($2300) includes 12-way power front sport seats, Shadowline exterior trim, M Sport steering wheel, M shift knob, 17-inch cross spoke composite cast-alloy wheels, 235/45 W-rated performance tires, sports suspension |
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Destination Charge:
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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43670 |
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Layout:
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rear-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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225 @ 5900 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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214 @ 3500 |
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Transmission:
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5-speed Steptronic automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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18/26 |
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Wheelbase:
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111.4 |
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Length/width/height:
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188.0/70.9/56.5 |
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Track, f/r:
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59.5/60.1 |
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Turning circle:
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37.1 |
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Seating capacity:
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5 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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38.7/NA/41.7 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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37.9/NA/34.2 |
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Cargo volume:
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11.1 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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Suspension, f:
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Independent |
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Suspension, r:
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Independent |
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Ground clearance:
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Curb weight:
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3549 |
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Tires:
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P235/45R17 |
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Brakes, f/r:
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disc/disc with ABS |
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Fuel capacity:
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18.5 |
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