The BMW 5 Series already sold 5.5 million units in five different model generations. And, this success story is about to unfold another chapter.
Back in the 1960s, BMW was already known for manufacturing technically innovative midrange four-door sedans. Elegant, sporty and powerful are just some of the characteristics of its brand.
During that time, the most impressive and successful series BMW has ever introduced to the market was the “New Range”, consists of the BMW 1500, BMW1800 and the BMW 2000. The competitive production and development of these models gave the company a worldwide buildup and a reputation for manufacturing highly desirable automobiles.
In 1972, BMW 5 Series made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It presented the BMW 520 and the BMW 520i. This model has a four-cylinder power units developing 115 and 130 hp respectively, showcased as the successors to the New Range.
This number “5” series became synonymous to driving with pleasure. It was the new era in design. Its physical features stood out through its stretched and sleek lines, low waistline and large windows. This series offers concentrated rendition of the competitive development of this leading manufacturer in Munich.
In the second year of production, the BMW 525 was introduced. It has a six-cylinder, refined engine feature delivering an impressive 145 hp. It is without a doubt that this series surpassed the success of the New Range. The demand for additional power became one of the reasons why more models were created.
In 1981, The Second Generation – First Diesel, sold almost 700,000 units. This striking design was engineered in such a way that provided more space within the vehicle, enhanced occupant safety, lightweight technology.
This new model also offered motoring comfort, based on the developed suspension with its double-joint front and semi-trailing arm axle. The advanced system of this BMW 5 series ranged from anti-lock brakes via on-board computer, to electronic fuel injection.
After seven years of production, this second generation was finally replaced. But the sales as of that point had generated more than 722,000 units, beating the old record.
In 1988, The third generation of the BMW 5 Series – also known as the Touring, set new standards in the occupant safety department. In addition to the anti-lock brake system, the Automatic Stability Control or ASC became available for the first time.
The Sales of the BMW 5 Series Touring, up to 1996 was approximately 125,000 units, and 1.3 million units were sold all over the world.
At the 1995 Frankfurt Motor show, the fourth generation of the BMW 5 Series made its debut. It had a Sporting and Elegant Style. Dual round headlights behind a glass cover. With a multifunction steering wheel, active seats, a dynamic stability control and a navigation system.
All these features made an outstanding, and high-tech representation of its segment. This generation sold up to 1.47 million units till the end of its production in early 2004. A new sales record indeed.
The Progressive and Efficient, fifth-generation BMW 5 Series was introduced in 2003. Its striking design, outstanding efficiency and innovative technology continued the legacy of its model series.
For four years in a row, from 2005 to 2008, BMW 5 Series became the best-selling car in its segment. By the end of 2007, there were more than a million units sold all over the world. In January of 2008, BMW Plant Dingolfing celebrated an impressive anniversary for having to come off the production line since 1973.
