2001-2003 BMW 5-Series: What it Has for You

Recently, I did an article on the new BMW 5-Series Grand Truismo
hatchback (fastback) priced at $65,000 - $70,000. The question was
asked: Is it the "right car" at this time of "Great Recession?"

For enthusiasts who like the looks inside and out of a more traditional
BMW, consider a 2001-2003 BMW 5-Series. What does the car have
to offer? Plenty!

To start, this 5-Series has "chain" driven overhead cams. It is my opinion
that a serious performance car should have a chain rather than a belt driving
the camshafts. Regarding the 3.0-liter engine, BMW finally returned to the
chain for the 2001 model year.

At the time, and as is still the case, the 3.0-liter straight 6-cylinder engine
was described as a "jewel" of an engine. The lack of vibration is an inherent
trait of the straight six-cylinder engine, and BMW's are among the best in
the business! The power was a reasonable 225 hp and 214 lb. ft of torque
(the previous 528i did not quite have the necessary torque!). Its 0-60 time
is an adequate 6.7 seconds, and the gas mileage can be 30 mpg on the
highway.

This 530i is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission or a five-speed
automatic that has shift logic that adapts to how the pilot drives the car.
Additionally, the automatic transmission has a steptronic mode in which
the driver can hit the shift lever to the right or left to make the automatic
shift when the driver chooses.

On the outside, this 5-Series is instantly recognizable with the car's
beautiful proportioned lines and an elegant look at the front and rear.
The shape of this 5-Series is an evolution of a handsome design that
dates back two decades (the 5-Series took on a new look for the 2004
model year). A great engine and the last of the more "traditional" body
styles is why I am writing about this car!

The body shell is extremely rigid which is a big plus concerning safety and
noise reduction. Additionally, foam filled body cavities and well-designed
door seals also keep it running quiet. Its 0.30 drag coefficient makes it one
of the most aerodynamically efficient sedans on the market.

Traction control, front passenger air bags, side curtain protection, dynamic
stability control and anti-lock brakes are standard equipment. The brakes
are superb and they are rock solid as if there is a direct connection between
the driver and the brakes. The brakes slow the car immediately and they are
easy to modulate.

The suspension offers an excellent combination of balance between
controlled ride quality and on the mark handling. Thus, the ride is taut
but soaks up rough pavement. The steering has good weighting and provides
excellent feedback from the road.

The interior is traditional BMW with clear black and white gauges, comfortable
and supportive leather seats, logical and straightforward control layout, and good
outward visibility.

The new BMW 5-Series is a great car but it costs about $65,000. The 2001 - 2003
BMW 5-Series cost about $40,000 - $45,000 when they were new.

In 2001, after test-driving the BMW 5-Series Edmunds said, "Yes, indeed, the
5 Series is a wonderful car. If you can afford to buy one, we recommend that
you do. Sure, there are other great cars out there in this price range - we just
think this is one of the best."

I am bringing this article to you because the 2001 - 2003 BMW 5-Series is a
great car that will offer you a lot of driving pleasure. And best of all, you can
pick one up in today's used car market for $9,000 - $14,000. This is indeed a
good automotive value on a great car! The 5-Series was the benchmark for
sport-luxury sedans.

This 5-Series BMW is one to keep as cars go toward full electric. It simply
represents all that a petrol car can be! It is my pleasure to bring it to you
for your consideration!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price..." He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
www.DriveTheBestBook.com.