1997 BMW 5-Series Summary & Specs Review at Automotive.com
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1997 BMW 5-Series Review: Summary & Specs

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1997 BMW 5-Series Review

Magnificent possession.

1997 5-Series Review Summary & Specifications

There is much to appreciate and precious little to dislike about the

upgraded and restyled 1997 5-Series BMWs. When their list of safety, comfort

and performance features is factored into price, they seem to offer more

than reasonable value for money. Add the quality of materials used, flawless

workmanship and three years or 36,000 miles-worth of free regular service

to the equation, and the prices become downright reasonable.

But the real defining characteristic of these overachieving sedans is

their driving pleasure. From that point of view, any 5-Series has to be

considered almost irresistible.

Review Sections
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1997 BMW 5-Series Specs
Vehicle CategoryLuxury Cars
EditorRay Thursby
Model Lineup
Engines (standard)2.8-liter dohc 24v inline-6
Engines (optional)282-hp 4.4-liter dohc 32v V8
Transmissions (standard)5-speed manual
Transmissions (optional)6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic
Safety Equipment (standard)ABS, dual airbags, front side airbags
Safety Equipment (optional)
Basic Warranty4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled InMunich, Germany
Manufacturer Phone1-800-334-4BMW
Manufacturer URLwww.bmwusa.com
Base Price MSRP38470


1997 BMW 5-Series Specs as Tested
Model Tested MSRP540i
Standard Equipment(540I) AM/FM/cassette audio, dual-zone automatic climate control a/c, power leather seats, power moonroof, keyless remote entry, power windows, heated poweer mirrors, power locks, onboard computer, traction control, aluminum alloy wheels, power tilt/telescope steering, cruise control, walnut trim, fog lights, traction control, alarm system
Destination Charge
Options as Tested (MSRP)Sport suspension, 6-speed manual transmission, 17-in. aluminum alloy wheels
Gas Guzzler Tax
Layout
Price as Tested52520
Horse Power190 @ 5300
Torque206 @ 3950
Fuel Economy19/28
Wheelbase111.4
Length/Width/Height188.0/70.9/56.5
Track Front/Rear59.5/60.0
Turning Radius37.1
Seating Capacity5
Front Head/Hip/Leg room38.7/56.8/41.7
Middle Head/Hip/Leg room
Rear Head/Hip/Leg room37.9/55.9/34.2
Trunk Volume11.1
Payload
Towing Capacity
Front SuspensionIndependent
Rear SuspensionIndependent
Ground Clearance
Curb Weight3450
Stock Tires225/60R-15
Brakes Front/Reardisc/disc
Fuel Capacity18.5
1997 BMW 5-Series