Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS300
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for superior handling, steering feedback, and a balanced chassis, epitomizing BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Comfort And Luxury:
High-quality interior materials, ergonomic design, and a focus on driver and passenger comfort.
Technology Integration:
Early adoption of advanced electronics for engine management, chassis control, and comfort features.
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling, fuel, exhaust, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS/DSC included), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Body electrical, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, engine management, chassis electronics (DSC/ABS control modules)
Bodywork:
Body panels, interior trim, safety systems (airbags), climate control (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 5.2.1)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane recommended)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4/5 stars (for similar E39 models, specific 1998 data may vary)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
4/5 stars (for similar E39 models)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) became optional/standard on later E39 models, check specific vehicle options.
Brake System:
Four-wheel vented disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones for enhanced occupant protection.
Head Unit:
BMW Business or Professional CD/RDS radio, often with integrated navigation system (optional) and cassette player.
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Parking Sensors:
Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors, front and rear (optional).
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation or integrated cellular phone system.
Oil Change:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's service indicator light (or annually).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Platinum/Iridium spark plugs typically rated for 100,000 miles; consult manual for exact replacement intervals and part numbers.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 specification (e.g., Castrol Syntec, Mobil 1).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW ETL-800 or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank prone to cracking, water pump failure (often with plastic impeller), radiator leaks.
Suspension:
Control arm bushings (front), rear subframe bushings, thrust arm bushings are common wear items.
Electrical:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, pixelated instrument cluster displays (MID), blower motor resistor issues, headlight condensation.
Engine:
Oil separator (CCV) system clogging, valve cover gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid failures.
Automatic:
Transmission control module (TCM) issues, torque converter seal leaks, valve body problems.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW boasts a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, with a strong emphasis on engineering and driving dynamics.
E39 Introduction:
The E39 generation 5 Series replaced the E34 and was introduced in 1995 (Europe) and 1996 (North America), running through 2003.
528I Positioning:
The 528i served as a mid-range offering in the E39 lineup, providing a balance of performance and luxury above the 525i and below the 540i.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany
