BMW1981-1988 5 Series Overview

BMW 5 Series Overview (1981 - 1988)

E28

Tech Specs Summary


102 - 152 mph

6.5 - 18.1 seconds

85 - 282 hp

15.7 - 33.1 mpg
lb
2,513 - 3,153 lbs

15.9 - 16.2 ft3
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This generation of the BMW 5 Series (E28) was produced by the German manufacturer BMW between 1981 - 1988. It's a front engined rear-wheel drive Sedan. There are many power levels available, ranging from a 85 hp 2.4 L Inline 6 diesel engine all the way to a 282 hp 2 L Inline 6 gasoline engine. It has macpherson strut front suspension and trailing-arm rear suspension.

Performance Pick

Performance Pick
BMW M5
(1985 - 1988)
...M5

If you're interested in performance, the best performance version of the 5 Series is the BMW M5 which scores 2.8★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for performance. With total power at 282 hp and a power/weight ratio of 11.18 lb/hp it has a top speed of 152 mph and gets to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds.

Practicality Pick

Practicality Pick
BMW 524d
(1986 - 1988)
...524d

If you're more interested in practicality, then the BMW 524d is the best practical all-rounder with a score of 3★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for practicality. It has a range of 612 miles and can store 16.2 cubic feet of cargo.

Timeline

1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
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