- Refined six- and eight-cylinder petrol engines
- Five-speed automatic transmission works well
- Impressive ride/handling balance
- High standard of fit and finish
- Limited rear legroom
- Awkward centre rear seat
- Premium unleaded petrol recommended
- M50 engine susceptible to overheating
Overview
Released in June 1992, the BMW E34 5-Series Touring was a rear-wheel drive, executive wagon. Manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany, the E34 5-Series Touring range consisted solely of the 525i model which was powered by BMW’s 2.5-litre M50 inline six-cylinder engine. Transmission choices initially consisted of a five-speed manual or automatic.
In November 1992, the manual transmission option was withdrawn and variable valve timing was added to the intake camshaft of the M50 engine; although peak power was unchanged, the torque curve was flatted from 3000 rpm to the 6300 rpm redline.
| Engine | Trans. | Years | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 525i | 2.5-litre petrol I6 (M50 B25) | 5sp man., 5sp auto |
1992 | 141 kW at 6000 rpm | 245 Nm at 4700 rpm |
| 5sp auto | 1992-96 | 141 kW at 5900 rpm | 245 Nm at 4200 rpm |
Dimensions and suspension
The BMW E34 5-Series Touring was 4720 mm long, 1751 mm wide, 1412 mm high and had a 2761 mm long wheelbase. Like the E34 5-Series sedan , the E34 5-Series Touring had double pivot front suspension and trailing arm rear suspension.
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the BMW E34 525i Touring included a driver’s airbag and ABS. From March 1995, the 525i was fitted with a front passenger airbag.
Features
Standard features for the BMW E34 525i Touring included a radio, cassette player, air conditioning, front fog lights, central locking, power windows and power mirrors. From November 1992, the 525i was further equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels and leather seats.
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