We present an overview of how the technical characteristics of the BMW 525 fifth series cars have changed over three generations.

Technical characteristics of the BMW 525 E34

At the end of the eighties, BMW enterprises began to produce cars in the new E34 body. Compared to the previous body, the E34 turned out to be more streamlined and rigid. The sporty appearance of the car logically increased the requirements for its dynamics. If 1.8-liter engines were economical, then three-liter engines were suitable for lovers of sports driving. The 525 models became a suitable choice for those who preferred the “golden mean”. It was the 525 model that became the most successful in the e34 series.

At first, the new BMW “fives” left the plant’s workshops on a 2.5-liter M20B25 engine, which was also installed on previous bodies and developed a power of 170 horsepower. This was clearly not enough to meet customer expectations. Therefore, by May 1990, the E34 525i model was re-equipped with a more powerful M50 engine, which, having four valves per cylinder, already absorbed 192 “horses”.

The increase in power required engineers to adjust other technical characteristics of the car. Thus, to ensure effective braking, the 525i began to be equipped with ventilated brake discs on the front wheels.

Owners of the Fives were able to more fully experience the benefits of the 2.5-liter engine thanks to the release of an all-wheel drive version of the 525 ix. The car confidently pushed off the asphalt with all four wheels, regardless of whether it was driving along the plain or climbing up a mountain serpentine road. By the way, for those who like to travel with their families, the BMW concern began producing Touring 525i station wagons.

In parallel with the gasoline engine, diesel engines were also installed on the 525th model. The first modification was designated BMW 525tds e34. The car's power was 143 hp, which allowed it to accelerate to 200 km/h. And those who like to save money chose a diesel engine with 115 “horses”.

The engine of the 525 models was combined with five-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

The combination of different engines, transmissions, body variations and drive systems made it possible to produce more than a dozen modifications of the 525 e34 model, and each of them found its buyer.

The BMW model coding system is very informative. The first number “5” indicates that we are talking about a business class car. Code “25” indicates an approximate engine capacity of 2500 cubic meters. The Latin letters “i” and “d” indicate an injection gasoline or diesel engine, respectively. The word “Touring” in BMW traditionally refers to family station wagons, and the definition “Automatic” logically indicates an automatic transmission.

Technical characteristics of the BMW 525 e34 series

Model	Year of issue		Power, hp	Torque, Nm	Maximum speed, km/h
525i Automatic e34	1988	2.5/2494	171	221	204
525i e34	1988	2.5/2494	171	221	222
525i 24v e34	1990	2.5/2494	192	250	231
525tds Touring Automatic e34	1991	2.5/2498	143	261	201
525tds Touring e34	1991	2.5/2498	143	261	199
525tds Automatic e34	1991	2.5/2498	143	261	205
525tds e34	1991	2.5/2498	143	261	206
525ix 24v Touring e34	1991	2.5/2494	192	246	217
525ix 24v e34	1991	2.5/2494	192	246	220
525i 24v Touring Automatic e34	1991	2.5/2494	192	250	219
525i 24v Touring e34	1991	2.5/2494	192	246	223
525i 24v Automatic e34	1991	2.5/2494	192	246	228
525 td Touring Automatic e34	1993	2.5/2498	115	221	182
525td e34	1993	2.5/2498	115	221	195
525td Automatic e34	1993	2.5/2498	115	221	190
525td Touring e34	1993	2.5/2498	115	221	189

Generation change: technical characteristics of the BMW 525 E39

The new BMW 525i E39 replaced the 34 in 2000. The BMW 525i E39 was equipped with an M54B25 engine, which had a 2.5-liter volume and a power of 192 horsepower. The engine was characterized by smooth operation and a love of high speeds. Engineers equipped the engine with an advanced VANOS gas distribution system.

Despite the fact that the engine power remained the same as the previous generation, the car turned out to be more economical. The maximum speed of almost all models has also increased. This was made possible thanks not only to the new injection system, but also to the large-scale use of aluminum in chassis structures.

Technical characteristics of the BMW 525 e39 series

Model	Year of issue	Engine capacity, l./cc.cm.	Power, hp	Torque? Nm.	Maximum speed, km/h
525tds Automatic e39	1996	2.5/2497	143	280	205
525tds e39	1996	2.5/2497	143	280	211
525i Touring Automatic e39	2002	2.5/2494	192	246	229
525i Touring e39	2002	2.5/2494	192	246	235
525d e39	2002	2.5/2497	163	351	218
525i Automatic e39	2002	2.5/2494	192	246	232
525i e39	2002	2.5/2494	192	246	238
525d Touring Automatic e39	2002	2.5/2497	163	351	216
525d Touring e39	2002	2.5/2497	163	351	216
525d Automatic e39	2002	2.5/2497	163	351	218

Serial sports car: characteristics of the BMW 525 E60

The 525 model received a new e60 body in 2003. Over the course of several years, BMW began producing cars with different types of bodywork, drivetrains, engines and transmissions. At first, the new car was equipped with the same 2.5-liter 192-horsepower M54B25 engine. However, the change of generations again required an increase in power. Therefore, since 2005, a new 6-cylinder 218-horsepower N52B25OL engine began to be installed on the rear-wheel drive BMW 525i E60 and all-wheel drive version of the BMW 525xi E60.

In 2007, the “525” models, retaining their numerical index, received three-liter engines. This applied to both gasoline and diesel engines. However, their power, like the maximum speed of the cars, did not increase.

Technical characteristics of the BMW 525 e60 series

Model	Year of issue	Engine capacity, l. / cc.	Power, hp	Torque, Nm.	Maximum speed, km/h
525i Automatic e60	2003	2.5/2494	192	246	234
525i e60	2003	2.5/2494	192	246	238
525d e60	2004	2.5/2497	177	400	231
525d Automatic e60	2004	2.5/2497	177	400	228
525xi e60	2005	2.5/2497	218	250	236
525i Automatic e60	2005	2.5/2497	218	250	243
525i e60	2005	2.5/2497	218	250
525xi Automatic e60	2005	2.5/2497	218	250	232
525Li e60	2006	2.5/2497	218	250	243
525xi Automatic e60	2007	3/2996	218	269	233
525xi e60	2007	3/2996	218	269	239
525i Automatic e60	2007	3/2996	218	269	245
525d e60	2007	3/2993	197	400	236
525d Automatic e60	2007	3/2993	197	400	235
525i e60	2007	3/2996	160	269	249

In general, the “525” model has followed and continues to move along the path characteristic of the business class of prestigious car brands: engine power is increased by changing the injection system and simultaneously increasing volume. At the same time, designers are moving towards reducing weight and improving the aerodynamics of the car. Therefore, year after year, cars are armed with more and more power reserves and break speed records over and over again.

Sales market: Europe.

In the spring of 1994, all BMW 5-Series E34 models received an updated appearance in the form of a reshaped hood and a wide radiator grille, which made them aesthetically more perfect. Previously, this distinctive feature applied only to the new BMW 530i and 540i models with the V8 M60 engine - as one of the elements of prestige for more powerful modifications. Now this rule has spread to other models, which have additionally received a number of other changes. Another innovation for the E34 sedan was the base M43 engine, which replaced the previous 1.8-liter M40 four.

The interior of the BMW E34 is traditionally focused on the driver: the center console is turned towards him, excellent ergonomics, comfortable steering wheel and pedals, comfortable seating with a wide range of adjustments. A massive front panel in a simple style and without any frills, but with wood trim in expensive trim levels. The interior of the E34 is distinguished by high-quality plastic and upholstery materials, rich color combinations. Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, air conditioning, radio. The list of equipment offered for an additional fee is impressive: electric heated mirrors, electric windows, electric front seats, armrests, leather upholstery, sports seats, radio, sunroof and even a built-in telephone.

The base engine for the 5-Series sedan models produced since the spring of 1994 was the M43B18 engine installed under the hood of the 518i version. The new unit with a chain drive and a new injection system had a power of 115 hp. and improved the speed characteristics of the initial version of the sedan - the maximum speed increased from 192 to 198 km/h, the acceleration time to hundreds is 12.3 seconds, which is a tenth less than the previous M40B18 with 113 hp. The rest of the range of units includes in-line sixes: petrol 24-valve M50 in models 520i (2.0 l, 150 hp), 525i (2.5 l, 192 hp) and M51 diesel engines in 525td models (2.5 l, 115 hp) and 525tds (2.5 l, 143 hp). As well as V8 M60 units, represented by the 530i (3.0 l, 218 hp) and 540i (4.0 l, 286 hp) models. The latter was distinguished by the best speed indicators - a maximum speed of 250 km/h, acceleration to “hundreds” in 6.4 seconds. Only the M5 sedan was faster, which received a new engine (3.8 liters, 340 hp) - 5.9 seconds. up to "hundreds".

The suspension of the BMW E34 is completely independent, strut-and-link type, with a setting that prioritizes sporting qualities, so it is not too soft. The car has a standard rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive modifications of the 525ix with a multi-plate electro-hydraulic clutch were also offered, while the electronic system for regulating the distribution of traction along the axles evaluates the condition of the braking system and wheel speed from ABS sensors, as well as the position of the engine throttle. During normal driving, 36% of the traction is supplied to the front axle and 64% to the rear. Steering E34 - with hydraulic booster. Disc brakes on all wheels (ventilated front), simple versions have drum mechanisms at the rear. Body dimensions: length 4720 mm, width 1751 mm, height 1412 mm. Wheelbase 2761 mm. Minimum turning radius 5.5 m. Ground clearance 140 mm. Trunk volume is 460 liters.

The BMW E34 generation has a more stringent approach to safety. For this quality, the 5-Series was considered one of the best in its class. Since January 1995, two airbags for the driver and front passenger have become standard for all trim levels (previously the passenger airbag was an option). The car also has a standard ABS system for more effective braking on slippery roads, and an ASC traction control system was installed at an additional cost to prevent the wheels from slipping.

The BMW E34 has many advantages - from its design to its comfortable interior and excellent equipment for its time. One of the features of the BMW E34 is considered to be a rather fancy suspension, which requires special attention. Considering the years of production, there are difficulties in finding some spare parts. Owners cite weak headlights and susceptibility to corrosion as other disadvantages (a serious problem for cars with a sunroof where water is drained through a threshold). If we talk about engines, then 6- and 8-cylinder engines of this generation are considered models of reliability (with proper maintenance), while the inline “six” under the hood is the best option both in terms of maintenance cost and prevalence.

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Its predecessor was the sensational E28. Even today, this is a truly noteworthy car that is very popular. It's safe to say that this is a masterpiece of sorts. Let's look at the technical characteristics of this model, find the strengths and weaknesses.

Salon and equipment

Today, not every car is as comfortable as the E34. The fact is that the center console here is made in such a way that the driver can not only quickly but also comfortably gain access to all the necessary controls. As for the sensors, they are also built into the “torpedo” very successfully. They are clearly visible while driving. At night, you don’t need to look closely, as the instrument lighting is on point. To prevent freezing and fogging of windows, air ducts are provided, which are not only on the front panel, but also on the doors, which together gives a good result. By the 90s, vehicles were equipped with air conditioning and an airbag for the driver. In addition, it was possible to order a package with a cassette player; there were no discs at that time. The maximum configuration included an electric sunroof and leather interior.

Installed engines on E34

Until the car was discontinued, 13 engines were offered, 11 of which were gasoline. As for power, the spread is quite large. The minimum is 115 horses for a gasoline engine and the same for a diesel engine. There was also the opportunity to purchase a car with a 340-horsepower engine, but it was exclusive. At the very beginning, it was planned to install the M20 and M30 series with a volume of 2.0/2.5 and 3.0/3.5 liters. All these engines can be considered original; they have a belt drive, as well as two valves for each cylinder. The lack of hydraulic compensators led to the need to periodically adjust the thermal clearances, but this was not a problem, since this kind of adjustment had to be done every 35,000-40,000 kilometers. Even less often it was necessary to replace the belt, every 50,000-60,000 kilometers. It is difficult to say what serious shortcomings the M20 and M30 had, since the assembly was really high quality.

BMW E34 engines: M50 and M60

By 1990, Munich decided to install modified versions of the engines. In almost all respects they outperformed their predecessors. One of the significant advantages was the presence of the Vanos gas distribution system. The M50 had a displacement of 2.0 and 2.5 liters with a power of 150 and 192 horsepower, respectively. The main goal of the designers was to increase power, torque and improve efficiency. To achieve all this, 4 valves were installed on each cylinder; various modifications accelerated their filling. The service life of the motors was also up to par. If all operating requirements were met, the engine could travel about 600,000 kilometers. The main drawback is its high sensitivity to overheating, which is why the owners had to constantly monitor the condition of the pump, thermostat and pipes. It is recommended not to wait for the complete failure of any specific BMW E34 spare part, but to replace it before an emergency condition occurs.

Car modifications

In 1991, an all-wheel drive model was released. The new modification of the “five” was produced with one 2.5-liter gasoline engine. Priority of torque was given to the rear wheels, as it accounted for about 64%, the remaining 36% to the front. Almost all cars had a five-speed manual transmission, with a 5-speed automatic transmission being much less common. As for the service life of silent blocks, for example, it is recommended to change them every 55-60 thousand kilometers. change every 40 thousand kilometers. We can’t help but mention the power steering, which drivers immediately fell in love with. Depending on the speed of the vehicle, the steering wheel could become heavier or lighter. This, of course, did not solve the problems with the worm pair, which quickly failed, however, on the road the driver had a feeling of safety and comfort. In principle, even in 2014 we can say with confidence that the E34 is a complex car, but its level of reliability is high. If you undergo maintenance on time, change consumables and take care of the vehicle, then there will be no problems with it.

Specifications with manual transmission

The vehicle is equipped with a 2.5-liter engine that produces 192 horsepower. In about 8.5 seconds, the car can accelerate to 100 kilometers, and the maximum speed is 230 km/h. As for fuel consumption, the car was not so voracious if you look at its power. On average this is 9 liters per 100 km. The trunk is also quite roomy, its volume is 460 liters. It must also be said that the fuel tank, into which you can fill 80 liters of fuel, will also please you. Ground clearance is 120 millimeters. Today it is popular and which includes the installation of a sports crankshaft and more. All this allows you to get a fast car, but at the same time very economical. As for the cost, it depends on the condition of the body, as well as under the hood. The most common options are from 4 to 9 thousand dollars.

Conclusion

So we did a brief review of the E34. If you are faced with a choice, then do not rush to make a decision. Don’t pay attention to the engine size; rather, look at how the interior has been preserved and the condition of the vehicle’s components and assemblies. First, evaluate the appearance of the BMW E34. In this case, it is advisable not to believe the photographs, but to view them yourself, preferably with a specialist. This way you can get an objective assessment, ride it and draw conclusions for yourself. That, in principle, is all that can be said about the legendary E34. Expensive repairs are more than compensated by the durability and reliability of the vehicle, so you don’t have to worry. You only need to fill in high-quality oil and gasoline, since any engine, be it M2 or M5, requires careful handling and good care.

In February 1988.

The 520i Touring was produced in 1991 and, like the sedan, was produced until 1996. A total of 396,618 sedans and 30,505 station wagons were produced.

The BMW 520 Touring is second only to the number of cars produced. By launching a 5-door Touring version from September 1991, BMW fulfilled a long-cherished wish of its customers. This is a very successful synthesis of utility, elegance and dynamism.

Engine

At the beginning of mass production, the BMW 520i E34 (sedan only) was equipped with an engine with a maximum power of 129 hp. and torque of 164 Nm at 4300 rpm.

Since September 1989, the BMW 520i has been equipped with an engine with a maximum power of 150 hp. and torque of 190 Nm at 4700 rpm.

In September 1990, the M50 4-valve engine was updated and was installed as the M50B20(TU) in the 520i E34. Technical indicators remained the same after the update, the engine began to be equipped with the Vanos system, and a torque of 190 Nm became available at 4200 rpm.

The M50 engine is the successor to the M20 and one of the most

Transmission

As standard, the BMW 520 E34 was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic was available as an option and, from August 1990, a 5-speed ZF automatic transmission.

The 5 Series BMW and Mercedes Benz have always been competitors. Considering that Mercedes-Benz is an elite representative of automobile transport, the Bavarian manufacturers decided to create their own representative, which in terms of technical parameters would not be inferior to the leader from Stuttgart. It should be noted that they succeeded, and the cars are completely different in style, but can easily compete with each other.

Briefly about BMW. It should be taken into account that this is a racing car with a corresponding body shape and not every motorist will like this hound “bird”.

Exterior

The BMW E34 Sedan first appeared on the shelves of car dealerships in January 1988, and the Touring station wagon 4 years later in January 1992.

During this time, the car practically did not change its appearance. The only transformation was the widening of the “nostrils” on the false radiator grille. The assembly and painting of the body are considered to be of standard quality, but, unfortunately, it is not completely protected from corrosion, only vulnerable areas.

Internal review

In appearance, the car has impressive dimensions (body length – 4720 mm; width 1750; height 1410 mm), which cannot be said about the interior of the BMW e34. This is due to the large longitudinal engines, which occupy a significant part of the car. Because of this feature, the driver's seat is a little uncomfortable and cramped. As for driving comfort, there is nothing to complain about here thanks to the center console turned towards the driver’s seat and 5 electric seat adjustments. The steering wheel is adjusted relative not to the angle of inclination, but to the distance to the dashboard.

The equipment of the fifth series is organized at the business class level (E). Taking into account all the necessary monitoring systems, the BMW has a built-in on-board computer. This BMW model, such as the Touring station wagon, is additionally equipped with two hatches. Having even the most expensive car, you should not hope that it will last for a long time without the slightest breakdown. Over time, the electrical system wears out and begins to fail. In BMW, the weak point is the windshield wiper trapezoid.

BMW e34 engine

An important and undeniable advantage of the Boomer is the engine. It is the cars of Bavarian manufacturers that are silent. There are many engines for the BMW E34 model. Among them are more than 10 petrol and 3 diesel. Gasoline engines were previously designated by the letter “i”, which means “injection”. Taking into account the fact that BMW has not produced carburetor engines for a long time, however, the numbering remains the same.

The four-cylinder engine M40 (518i) is considered the weakest player on the market, but it may well become a good alternative for those who would still like to drive a Boomer and at the same time save on fuel. The best engine is considered to be a six-cylinder. Despite its considerable power, it operates silently and smoothly.

In the fall of 1992, the newest 530i and 540i engine models were released, each of which is equipped with a highly powerful and quiet V8 engine. The only drawback is engine oil leakage, which becomes apparent after a mileage of more than 150 thousand km. This problem can be easily fixed by replacing the valve cover gasket.

As for diesel engines. As already mentioned, there are only 3 types. The very first of them, 524td, cannot be considered a successful model, since it is quite fragile and requires special attention. It wasn't until January 1993 that the 525tds was introduced with an additional air cooling feature. The latest and most powerful model has become in demand among car enthusiasts in the market. It should be taken into account that diesel engines in the 10th year of life will cope with a 250 thousandth distance.

In 1992, a new product appeared - the VANOS variable valve timing system. On new cars, this system worked perfectly without interruptions, but on used cars unexpected breakdowns occurred. When, after a mileage of 200 thousand km, noises began to appear on the upper front part of the engine, this indicated that the gas distribution system should be repaired or replaced with a new one.

It often happens that oil consumption increases in BMW racing models. Often in such cases, the problem lies in the valve stem seals, which wear out after a mileage of about 200 thousand km, or in piston rings that have become unusable due to poor fuel.

The most dangerous situation for a driver can be an overheated engine. This problem can be solved by replacing the radiator or cylinder heads.

Overheating often occurs in two cases:

• the radiator is clogged with something, usually dirt;
• The thermal coupling for turning on the fan has become unusable.

The disadvantage of all engines without exception is a malfunction of the cooling system. Unfortunately, in many cooling systems up to 1994 there are plug valves with defects. The car is quite fastidious and prefers branded antifreeze; otherwise, all sorts of problems and leaks appear in many places.

Regarding management. All E34 fifth series models have both manual and automatic transmissions. Both the second option are quite reliable and indestructible. However, as with everything, there is a catch: transmission oil and oil for the rear axle gearbox should be changed after a mileage of 50 thousand km. It is important to consider that the machine works well on only a certain type of oil, otherwise the gearbox will have to be replaced.

Chassis

The BMW suspension is quite stiff. Thanks to the intricate multi-link suspension at the rear, the car will confidently overcome and cope with sharp turns. Unfortunately, this suspension is not intended for our roads. The “weak link” is the steering tips, silent blocks of the upper arms, as well as the rear spring cups that often push through the body.

The braking system is quite effective. However, high-speed driving can cause discs and pads to wear out quickly.

BMW verdict

Thus, the BMW 5 Series is a legendary car with a high-quality build. Those problematic consequences that arise while driving are associated with driving technique and the complexity of the design. Nowadays it’s hard to find a car with low mileage, and their main drawback is an incompletely thought-out cooling system, which can subsequently have a sad effect not only on finances, but also on health. Only with a new representative can you enjoy driving.