1990 BMW 5 Series Reviews, Pricing & Specs

You don't really notice the e34 5 series until you consciously take a moment to stop and look at it. The styling that was carried over from BMW's flagship model back in 1989 still looks timeless, 22 years later. In many ways it's the best modern classic BMW available; it was the last car to retain the German manufacturer's traditional quad headlight design, yet its new body shell was much more aerodynamic, stiffer, and safer than the previous generation; it represented the first incarnation of the new-age BMW. I've asked many friends how old they think the e34 5er is and the closest guess has been about 5 years off. Only minor exterior changes were made to the e34 during its lifespan, those being side-mounted turn indicators and more painted area on the lower body. All models come equipped with central locking, although a remote keyless entry system and alarm was added later. Another convenient feature is the key-activated window operation, which allows you to roll up all the windows and close the sunroof from outside of the car. With a decent coat of paint and wheels to match, the car simply defies its age. The e34's interior is exactly this: A premium sedan cabin from the early 90s. It was top of the line, and it's still far better than many compact class interiors today. Leather was standard, don't worry about that. So were power seats, power windows, driver airbag (and passenger in later years), ABS, and a powerful on-board computer with functions such as average MPG/MPH, thermometer, an estimated arrival time calculator, etc. In fact, the North American E34 came standard with so many features that the options list was sparce. One option of note is the sport package, which in addition to stiffer suspension offered more dynamic seats that do a much better job holding the occupants in place during spirited driving. Very few models were equipped with this option, so you may not come across any on your used car hunt. That said, the regular seats are extremely comfortable and fully adjustable (even the headrest is electrically adjustable!), and the armrests are more than welcome on long trips. It should be assumed that every used car ages differently. Cars that were pampered throughout their life will show it, and it's easy to find an e34 for under 5k that's been pampered. By today's standards, the car is small and light for a mid-size sedan; it's the same size and weight as a new 3 series. The car was originally set up for luxurious, comfortable cruising, although with a new set of suspension components it transforms into a midsize sports sedan that holds its own or bests everything else in its price range. Both automatic and manual gearboxes were available, the 5 speed manuals tending to outlast their 4 speed (5 in later years) automatic counterparts. Acceleration is more than adequate with any engine above the 2.5 liter, and braking is even better. Safety was a strong influence on the car's design; the body was 33% more rigid than the outgoing model and boasted a record setting 60-0 braking distance of 130ft. Lastly, I suppose I should address the reliability. Put plainly, anyone who tells you a BMW of this era is expensive to maintain either owns a lemon or doesnt own one at all. Asides from the usual maintainence such as oil changes, I think I've spent about $200 per year in items that needed replacement. The car recieved a new radiator (installed by yours truly) and a rebuilt driveshaft since mine had some play in it. It's been pretty much bulletproof other than that. See the video review for more details!Apr 07, 2012