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11/2009
Page 56
1972: the BMW 5 Series makes its debut.
The BMW 520 and the BMW 520i with four-cylinder power units developing
115 and, respectively, 130 hp were presented at the 1972 Frankfurt Motor
Show as the successors to the New Range. The model designation
introduced a new concept determining the nomenclature of BMW cars to
this very day, with the ”5“ at the beginning specifying the series as such and
the two following numbers indicating the displacement of the respective
model. At the same time these model designations brought back memories
of legendary BMWs in the 1950s such as the BMW 501 “Baroque Angel”
and the iconic BMW 507 sports car.
In its design, the first BMW 5 Series stood out from the start through its
stretched and sleek lines, large windows and low waistline. As design
elements typical of the brand, the dual headlights and the Hofmeister kick in
the C-pillar were re-interpreted in new style and technology, French designer
Paul Bracq thus setting the foundation for the design language of BMW
so characteristic in the 1970s. To precisely calculate the car’s deformation
zones in the interest of superior occupant safety, BMW’s engineers for the
first time used superior computer technology to a large extent.
Introduction of the BMW 525 in the second year of production hailed the
entry of the first six-cylinder into the market. The powerful and, at the same
time, refined engine featured in this top model delivered an impressive
145 hp. This wish for additional power became one of the most important
reasons for expanding the model range also in the years to come, BMW
Motorsport GmbH established in 1972 providing particularly spectacular input
by presenting the BMW M535i with its 160 kW/218 hp six-cylinder in 1980.
1981: second generation, first diesel.
Accounting for sales of almost 700,000 units, the first generation of the
BMW 5 Series more than doubled the success of the New Range in the
market. The next model launched in 1982 then continued this story of
success, remaining faithful in its design to the principle of clear lines and
large windows.
With its even more striking design front and rear, the new BMW 5 Series,
despite its exterior dimensions remaining almost identical, offered far greater
presence and flair on the road. Engineering refinements and intelligent
lightweight technology provided more space within the interior, optimum
weight and improved occupant safety. The newly developed suspension
with its double-joint front axle and semi-trailing arm rear axle served in
particular to enhance the motoring comfort offered by the new model.
Modern electronic systems were also introduced into the BMW 5 Series