Positioning:
The BMW 520i (E34) was positioned as a premium executive sedan, known for its sporty driving dynamics, refined luxury, and advanced engineering for its time.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), Audi 100/200, and Jaguar XJ.
Design:
Iconic 'Bangle-butt' design language (though less pronounced than later generations), improved aerodynamics, sophisticated interior, advanced chassis for its era.
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its balanced handling, responsive steering, and comfortable ride, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (M20B20), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and adjustment
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic circuits, bleeding procedures, component replacement
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, comfort electronics, starting and charging system, fuse box layouts, diagnostic procedures
Body:
Body shell construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, body panel alignment, rust prevention and repair
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault identification and resolution
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation
Specifications And Tolerances:
All critical torque values, clearances, and measurement specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 24-valve
Engine Code:
M20B20 (though the E34 520i typically used the later M50B20)
Displacement:
1991 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
80.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for M50B20)
Horsepower:
150 PS (148 hp) @ 5600 rpm (M50B20)
Torque:
190 Nm (140 lb-ft) @ 4300 rpm (M50B20)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M3.1 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system
Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 recommended (e.g., Castrol GTX 5W-30 or 10W-40, check manual for exact specs)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 Liters (with filter)
Type:
Getrag 260/5 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
First: 4.08, Second: 2.15, Third: 1.31, Fourth: 1.00, Fifth: 0.81, Reverse: 3.71
Automatic Features:
Electronic control (late models), sport/economy modes
Manual Fluid:
BMW ATF Dextron II (or equivalent)
Automatic Fluid:
BMW ATF Dextron II (or equivalent)
Crash Test History:
E34 chassis generally performed well in contemporary crash tests, though specific ratings for the 1990 model vary by region and testing authority.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often standard or a popular option.
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T (Traction Control with engine management) became available later in the E34's lifecycle, may not be common on early 1990 models.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was becoming more common around this year, often optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Original BMW Bavaria C or Business CD/RDS radio, often with cassette player and 6-8 speaker system.
Navigation:
Optional early navigation systems (BMW Navigator) were available but very basic and rare.
ABS:
As mentioned, ABS was a significant safety technology for its time.
Phone Integration:
Optional factory-installed cellular telephones were available, but not integrated like modern Bluetooth.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles)
Spark Plugs:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) using specific BMW plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EK)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 50,000 km
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (high boiling point, hygroscopic)
Cooling System:
Cracking plastic expansion tanks, failing water pumps, radiator leaks.
Engine Management:
MAF sensor issues, idle control valve problems, potential VANOS issues on later M50 engines (though less common on early 2.0L).
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar links leading to clunks and poor handling.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded wiring harness connectors, failing window regulators, dashboard illumination issues.
Fuel System:
Leaking fuel lines, injector seal failures.
Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, established in 1916, renowned for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987, succeeding the E28. The 520i was a core model in the European market.
E34 Lifespan:
1987-1996 (sedan), 1991-1996 (touring).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in various locations worldwide.
Contemporary Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and comfort, often winning segment comparisons.
Longevity:
The E34 generation is recognized for its robust engineering and longevity, with many examples still in good running condition today.
Design Awards:
While not a specific award for the 1990 520i, the E34 generation's design by Claus Luthe was highly regarded and influential.
