Reviews - BMW

Overall Rating

5-Series is all about a superior driving experience. The badge, the high prices and keen competition from E Class mean that engineering excellence, prestige and comfort are taken for granted.

• The keen driver's emotional and rational choice
• Well-mannered, responsive six-cylinder engines
• Easier on the eye than current 5-Series

• High prices and running costs
• Gangsta-styled V8s damage BMW's image
• Touring is less practical than E Class e

BMW enthusiasts are still coming to terms with the challenging styling of the latest 5-Series, so the 1996-2003 range will be a safe place for your money for some time. Apart from slightly less interior space in the saloon and a smaller load platform in the Touring estate, 5-Series rivals E Class for comfort, kudos, refinement and perceived quality. And it outpoints E Class in imparting driving pleasure. Engines are either six-cylinder or V8. Their eager responsiveness gives 5-Series a performance edge, even with diesel power (the 530d is a revelation - 0-60mph in just over 8 seconds, with not a rumble to be heard). Steering and brakes inspire confidence, while rear-wheel drive and a chassis set-up that favours sportier driving confirm 5-Series' claim to be a driving machine, not just a mere car. Safety standards are high, there's as much equipment as you need, and reliability is excellent.

NCAP: 4

Best Models: 523i; 530i; 530d; SE or Sport trim

Worst Models: None

Replacement: by current generation 5-Series in Autumn 2003

• Audi A6
• Mercedes-Benz E Class (1995-2003 generation)
• Saab 9-5