A complete redesign last year freshened the skin of the 5-Series withouttaking away its distinctive BMW character. From the twin grilles in front
(called "kidney grilles" by the factory) to the large taillights,
the 5-Series seems familiar, yet different and more contemporary.
Looks are only part of the story. The 5-series body shell is extremely
rigid, a plus in terms of safety, noise reduction, ride and handling. Also
aiding in keeping unwanted noise at bay are a very low coefficient of drag
(at 0.30, the 5-Series is one of the most aerodynamically efficient sedans
on the market), foam-filled body cavities and new triple door seals.
Two 5-Series models are available in the U.S. The junior version is
the 528i, powered by an inline six-cylinder engine; its upscale brother
is the V8 equipped 540i. Aside from their powerplants, the two 5s are remarkably
similar, differing mainly in minor detailing and trunklid badges. Both
have ABS, traction control, front side-impact airbags (supplementing the
dashboard airbags) and aluminum alloy wheels.