Positioning Statement:
The BMW 5 Series (E28) represented a refined and sporty executive sedan, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced engineering for its era.
Key Competitors 1985:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200, Jaguar XJ6, Volvo 740/760
Design Philosophy:
Hofmeister Kink, kidney grille, driver-oriented cockpit
Engineering Focus:
Rear-wheel drive dynamics, balanced weight distribution, robust build quality
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable for model variant), clutch, driveline
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, control modules
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, HVAC system, chassis components
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake service, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code identification (if applicable)
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, diagnostic parameters
Depth Of Information:
Full factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code 518:
M10 (4-cylinder, 8-valve)
Engine Code 518I:
M10 (4-cylinder, 8-valve with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection)
Engine Displacement Cc:
1766
Horsepower 518:
90 HP (approx.)
Torque 518 Lb-Ft:
100 lb-ft (approx.)
Horsepower 518I:
99 HP (approx.)
Torque 518I Lb-Ft:
105 lb-ft (approx.)
Fuel System 518:
Carbureted (e.g., Solex or Pierburg)
Fuel System 518I:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.3:1 (depending on specific variant)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Crash Safety Era Assessment:
Designed to contemporary European safety standards, robust chassis construction for the era
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models/markets
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional), basic speaker systems.
Dashboard Controls:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature; basic climate controls.
Cruise Control Availability:
Optional
Connectivity Features:
N/A (no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)
Oil Change Interval Km:
7,500 - 10,000 km (or 6-12 months, check manual for specific conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
20,000 - 30,000 km (depending on spark plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
N/A (M10 engine uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, BMW blue or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (heater core, hoses), carburetor tuning issues (on 518), fuel injection component wear (on 518i).
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, worn tie rod ends, power steering leaks.
Common Problems Electrical:
Corroded grounds, faulty fuse box connections, aging wiring harnesses, headlight switch issues.
Common Problems Rust:
Rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows is common due to age.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on sporty handling and engineering excellence.
E28 Introduction:
Introduced in 1981 as the successor to the E12 5 Series.
E28 Design Influence:
Design influenced by Paul Bracq and Claus Luthe, featuring a more modern and angular aesthetic than its predecessor.
E28 Variants:
Evolved through various engine sizes and performance models (518, 520i, 524d, 525e, 528i, 535i, M535i, M5).
E28 Production Years:
1981-1987
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), South Africa, Mexico, Thailand
