BMW 5-Series Saloon
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Excellent - a lot of car for your money. Watch for unscrupulous second hand car dealers.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    If you use German and Swedish for your spares and a local garage to fit, can be reasonably cheap.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Probably the most satisfying drive for all the cars I have owned (12 in total!)

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Quick car - if you keep the revs up. Lacks a bit of bottom-end grunt. 525i is better if you can afford the fuel costs.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Never failed me yet.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Solid family car - can be seen as flash, but also as an old man's car.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No complaints, even on a long journey.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Always use the deadlocks.

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Helpful if you need parts, but expensive!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Needed a new power steering box (£80 from breakers) to improve feel.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes