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It's all too easy to let the adjectives flow when describing a BMW. Sophisticated engineering,
attractive and understated design, jewel-like finish quality and road behavior matched only by a select few competitors can't
help but make an impression on even the most jaded test driver.
The company's 5-Series sedans have long been favorites with automotive journalists and customers alike. From
the beginning they have blended performance and luxury in a most appealing way. In effect, they have traditionally been slightly
smaller versions of BMW's flagship 7-Series sedans, built to the same standards and carrying most of the same features, yet
more maneuverable and less expensive.
Even among such high-class company, the 5-Series makes a strong case for itself. You may have
to shell out a substantial chunk of money for one, but you'll get what you paid for, and more.
For the record, the 1997 BMW 5-Series, which was introduced in
May, 1996, is a replacement for the 1995 model. There was no '96 5-Series. This fifth generation is a complete, ground-up
redesign incorporating BMW's "intelligent lightweight design." Aluminum is used extensively in the chassis, brakes, and suspension,
which results in a car lighter than the model it replaces.
The new 5-Series remains one of very few luxury cars offering a choice between
automatic and manual transmissions, and is the only car to be equipped with two different types of steering: the 528i features
a rack and pinion, while the 540i's steering is BMW's traditional recirculating-ball arrangement. Occupying the middle of
BMW's sedan lineup, the 5-Series has been the company's second-best seller after the 3-Series.
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