1991 BMW 525i E34

The new 5 Series E34 was introduced in 1988 and became popular not only thanks to visual and technical changes, but above all thanks to its legendary engines: the new 5 Series was characterized by silky smooth and smooth-running in-line six-cylinder engines. „Iron pig“ is what enthusiasts call the indestructible M30 engine from the 530i and 535i, whose basic design dates back to the 1960s. The two smaller in-line six-cylinder engines 520i and 525i were also available at market launch.

The competing Mercedes W124 had to make do with a 200cc four-cylinder as its basic engine, but it was much more comfortable to drive. From the outset, BMW aimed the E34 at sporty customers, which meant that W124 drivers generally ordered an automatic transmission, while most E34s were ordered with a manual gearbox.

For the first time in the history of the 5 Series, a five-door estate version called Touring was also introduced in the E34 from 1991. In addition, the E34 was the first 5 Series to be available with all-wheel drive - as the 525iX model. From 1992, two V8 engines were added to the engine range, and in 1993 a four-cylinder engine with 113 (later 115 hp) was added to the range with the 518i.

In the basic version, the BMW E34 rolled off the production line relatively naked - with fabric seats, crank windows and an analog clock. However, the list of optional extras was long. On request, customers could upgrade their 5 Series to a luxury vehicle, with leather seats, air conditioning, on-board computer or electrically adjustable headrests. Production of the E34 ended in 1996 after over 1.3 million units had been built.