BMW 5-Series (1972 – 1981) Review

When it was launched in 1972, the 5-Series was tasked with building on the success of the legendary ‘Neue-klasse’ saloons that did so much to cement BMW as a top-line motor manufacturer. It’s fair to say that it not only met those expectations, but went on to carve a prosperous future for the Munich company. It was so successful that the current models really are direct descendents.

It was offered with a wide range of four- and six-cylinder engines, displacing between 1.8- and 2.8-litres, and all were excellent driver’s cars. Star of the range was the 525 - a 2.5-litre sports saloon that was quicker and more impressive to drive than the six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz W114/115 saloon. Crisp styling inside and out has aged well, although a lack of corrosion resistance means survivors are few and far between. Values are also surprisingly low for except for the very nicest examples.