BMW 1996 5-Series Saloon

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Expensive to buy, but hold value well, especially the diesels.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Insurance higher than the average, but more than an average car!!. Expensive if things go wrong, but they shouldnt. Driving hard short journey I get 30mpg, long journeys on motorway 40mpg easily.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fabulous roadholding, inspires confidence, irons out uneven surfaces, feels well built. Steptronic gearbox is awesome.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Amazing for a diesel, as quick as the petrol 3.0litre, and overtaking/motorway driving is great with all the torque on tap.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Had a airmass flow meter replaced which affected performance, quite common on diesels apparently.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Real eyecatcher and monied image. Can be made very special with various options, alloys, rear spoilers, tints etc.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very comfortable, no wind noise, even at high speeds. A little engine noise when revved hard, but nothing too imposing.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Deadlocks, immobiliser keys, alarm, remote locking, visible VIN, integrated stereo. Airbags galore, feels very safe and well made.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Can be quite expensive, i now use a local specialist who is a lot more competetive, but still very good.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Air mass meter

    Other

    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