Market Position:
Premium Executive Sedan, Targeting discerning drivers seeking performance and luxury.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz (W116 S-Class, W123 E-Class), Jaguar (XJ), and American luxury offerings. Positioned as a driver's car with superior handling and build quality.
Key Features:
Introduction of the '5-series' nameplate for BMW's mid-size executive sedan line. Distinctive styling by Paul Bracq. Focus on advanced engineering, driver comfort, and performance.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealer-level diagnostic, maintenance, and repair information, enabling owners and independent mechanics to service the E12 5-series accurately and efficiently. Eliminates reliance on generic information or guesswork.
Engine Systems:
Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging
Drivetrain Systems:
Auto Transmission Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension
Chassis Systems:
Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Electrical Systems:
Electrical, Multiplex/ CAN Communication
Comfort And Convenience:
Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Component Inspections
Repair Procedures:
Complete Step-by-Step Repair Instructions for All Systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
Diagnosis and Troubleshooting for Common and Complex Issues
Technical Depth:
Vehicle Specific, Factory Detailed, Technician Level
Documentation Types:
Diagrams, Illustrations, Wiring Schematics, Specifications
Searchable Text:
Likely Searchable (Standard for PDF Manuals)
Print Quality:
High-Quality Printable Pages, Scalable Images
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format - Printable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format - User Selectable)
Operating Systems:
Windows Vista (32/64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, Mac
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (Free Online)
Engine Family:
BMW M30 Straight-Six
Engine Variants 1973:
520i (M60 engine - 2.0L), 525 (M30B25 - 2.5L), 528i (M30B28 - 2.8L)
Horsepower Range Approximate:
130-170 hp (depending on engine variant)
Torque Range Approximate:
170-240 Nm (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Carbureted (Zenith, Solex) and Fuel Injection (Bosch K-Jetronic for 'i' models)
Oil Type Specification:
Refer to manual for specific API/ACEA ratings and viscosity grades (e.g., SAE 20W-50, 15W-40 common for the era)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant mixture
Ignition System Type:
Conventional Distributor Ignition (points or electronic)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2764 mm (108.8 in)
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Curb Weight Approximate:
1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Crash testing standards significantly different in 1973 compared to modern standards; specific governmental ratings from that era may not be readily available or directly comparable)
Active Safety Features:
Disc brakes (front), Drum brakes (rear) or optional all-around discs, Independent suspension, Power assisted steering (optional)
Passive Safety Features:
Safety-reinforced passenger cell, Padded dashboard and steering wheel, Laminated front windshield
Infotainment Systems:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player in later models. Analog gauges for instrumentation.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era; power steering was optional on many models. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Engine Control Unit:
Basic ignition and fuel metering control, often mechanical or early electronic fuel injection systems (Bosch K-Jetronic).
Oil Change Interval Engine:
Refer to manual; typically 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Refer to manual; Automatic transmissions typically require fluid and filter changes every 30,000-50,000 km (20,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-25,000 miles) for standard plugs, longer for platinum.
Coolant Capacity:
Refer to manual; typically around 7-9 liters for the cooling system.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issues:
Carburetor tuning, fuel delivery system issues (especially for early fuel injection), rust around wheel arches and rocker panels, aging rubber components (hoses, bushings), electrical connector corrosion, cooling system leaks.
Air Filter Part Number:
Varies by engine. Manual will contain specific OEM and aftermarket cross-references.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Varies by engine. Manual will contain specific OEM and aftermarket cross-references (e.g., Mann-Filter W 930/1, Mahle OC 10).
Brand Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, renowned for producing high-performance and luxurious vehicles, particularly known for its inline-six engines and driver-focused engineering.
Model Evolution:
The E12 marked the inaugural generation of the BMW 5-series, establishing the platform for what would become one of the most successful and enduring executive sedan lines in automotive history. It replaced the aging Neue Klasse sedans.
Production Period:
1972-1981 (E12 chassis)
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in various international plants.
