Despite the age of the 5 Series, only now are rival manufacturers starting to produce serious competition for this exceptional car. It's a superb all-rounder thanks to a deadly accurate chassis, comfortable ride and a supremely well designed cabin. All engines offer more than adequate performance, from the basic 2.2-litre 520i upwards. That said, it's hard to see the point of the thirsty and expensive 535i and 540i V8s: the six-cylinder 530i is very nearly as good. The 525d and 530d are among the very best diesel cars in the world. The only significant problem is the cramped interior; more modern rivals do better here.
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