This book tells the complete BMW 5 series story, in the pre-Bangle classic era, covering e12, e28, e34 and e39 models, the enthusiast cars that invented the modern sports sedan and created BMW's ultimate driving machine image. Follow the evolution of BMW's middle child through the decades in all major markets. Marvel at the mystique of BMW's motorsport and exotic tuner cars reaching the 180mph milestone on V8 power. Consider BMW's phoenix-like rise from the ashes of WWII, regaining its sports, luxury reputation, and powering on to become the ultimate business machine under chairman Eberhard von Kuenheim. This new paperback edition features 22 new images, and new information about the genesis of BMW Motorsport GmbH and its early cars. Marc Cranswick has been writing on the subject of classic high performance German cars for many years. He has been involved with BMW since the e12 and e21 were current models.

A wealth of restoration tips and techniques covering E12, E24, E28, E34, 5 and 6 Series BMWs built between 1972 and 1995. Covers all models from 518 to M6. Advice is given on acquiring a good BMW 5 & 6 Series model, plus tips on restoring, engines, bodywork, trim, electrics, suspension & much more. If you have a car like this then you can save thousands as you bring it back up to specification - for your safety or as a restoration project this is the book you need. It is now 40 years since the first BMW 5 Series went down the production lines at Dingolfing. Back in 1972, only the BMW executives with the greatest of foresight could have predicted that in 2012, the 5 Series would still be in production and still be the class leader - and it's amusing to note that the latest model - the F10 520i - is also a two litre four cylinder just as those first Fives were. BMW occupies a unique position in the hearts of car buyers and enthusiasts for no other marque of car has such a wide fan base. From what are probably the finest range of cars in the world to an enjoyable secondhand car, through to concours events, track days to drifting championships plus huge clubs and countless forums, no other manufacturer has such a huge and diverse following as BMW. The large numbers of the first three generations of the 5 Series that still survive attest to that, and this book is aimed at owners wanting to know more and pick up some useful maintenance, repair and restoration tips.

In this manual, motoring historian James Taylor tells the story of the design, development and production of the BMW 5 Series, through each generation. Topics covered include: the history of BMW before the 5 Series; detailed model-by-model specifications; production details and running costs; M-Series and touring models; and advice on buying a BMW 5 Series today.

Details every model, including prototypes and factory racers.

The Ultimate Expression of Your Sports Car Passion -- in a Four-Door? What if you could get your hands on a high-performance German driving machine that competes with Porsches and Mercedes, doesn't cost a fortune, and even has a usable back seat and trunk? Meet the classic BMW 5-Series M car: - Possibly the fastest and tightest-handling sedan ever manufactured - Sold in the United States between 1988 and 2003 (three different models) - With a plain-looking (but very BMW) exterior that earned it the nickname "wolf in sheep's clothing" -- and fortunately causes it to be largely ignored by car thieves and cops - Typically available in great shape for around $20,000 to $50,000, including some recommended repairs and enhancements This book is your guide to how owning a classic car can make your cool lifestyle aspirations come true and help you find "life's sweet spot." Without a lot of automotive jargon, Robert P. Hall covers the plusses and minuses of each of the three models in a clear and readable style, recommends extra performance tweaks, and even shares commentaries by some of the best-known sports-car writers. Hall also includes lists of online resources and further reading, an extensive glossary, and a full index.