BMW 5 - Manual (Page 58)

BMW
Media
Information
11/2009
Page 58
electronics, optimised weight and a five-speed transmission with an overdrive
economy function were further features helping to give this model outstanding
efficiency.
The second generation of the BMW 5 Series was replaced after seven years of
production. By this time sales had amounted to more than 722.000 units, again
setting a new record.
1988: third generation of the BMW 5 Series –
for the first time also as the Touring.
With BMW having started the introduction of catalyst technology back in 1984,
the third-generation BMW 5 Series was fitted from the start exclusively with
this high standard of emission management. The first models available from
the beginning in 1988 were the BMW 520i, the BMW 525i, the BMW 530i,
the BMW 535i, and the BMW 524td) – all with six cylinders and electronic
fuel injection. The power range extended from 115 all the way to 211 hp.
A new BMW M5 was also introduced at an early point, with engine output
of 315 hp further increased to 340 hp in 1992.
The two eight-cylinder BMW 530i and BMW 540i followed in 1992, with the
BMW 518i being introduced in 1993 as the entry-level model with a four-
cylinder power unit. In the meantime, the six-cylinder engines, benefiting from
four-valve technology and variable Vanos camshaft management, had gained
even greater power, torque and efficiency.
With its precisely defined deformation zones and even stiffer passenger cell,
the third generation of the BMW 5 Series set new standards in the area of
occupant safety. As an option the elaborately refined suspension was available
with electronically controlled dampers, a further option being speed-related
Servotronic steering assistance.
ASC Automatic Stability Control was also available for the first time in addition
to the anti-lock brake system.
The first BMW 5 Series with electronically all-wheel drive was launched in
1991, the concept of fully variable power distribution from front to rear,
together with a rear axle differential lock, proving right from the start in the first
comparative tests to be superior to all four-wheel-drive systems available so far.
Compared with its predecessor, the third-generation BMW 5 Series was
significantly longer and came with a lot more space inside, also thanks to its
brand-new design. Indeed, the new sedan created under the guidance of