View source for BMW 5 Series (E34)

{{Short description|Third generation of the BMW 5 Series}}
{{Use British English|date=October 2024}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = BMW 5 Series (E34)
| manufacturer = [[BMW]]
| assembly = {{unbulleted list
| Germany: [[BMW Group Plant Dingolfing|Dingolfing]]
| South Africa: [[Rosslyn, Gauteng|Rosslyn]] ([[BMW South Africa|BMW SA]])
| Thailand: [[Bangkok]] (Yontrakit Industry Co., Ltd.: 520iS)
}}
| image = 1989 BMW 525i (E34) sedan (2015-11-13) 01.jpg
| production = November 1987 – June 1996
| model_years = 1988–1995
| designer = [[Ercole Spada]] and [[J Mays]] under [[Claus Luthe]]
| predecessor = [[BMW 5 Series (E28)]]
| successor = [[BMW 5 Series (E39)]]
| class = [[Executive car]] ([[E-segment|E]])
| layout = {{unbulleted list
| [[Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout|FR layout]] 
| [[Front-engine, four-wheel drive layout|F4 layout]] (525iX only)
}}
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>5-door [[station wagon|wagon]]
| engine = {{unbulleted list
| '''[[Internal combustion engine|Petrol]]''': 
| 1.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M40|M40]]''/''[[BMW M43|M43]]'' [[inline-four engine|I4]] 
| 2.0-3.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M20|M20]]''/''[[BMW M50|M50]]''/''[[BMW M30|M30]]''/''[[BMW S38|S38]]'' [[straight-six engine|I6]] 
| 3.0-4.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M60|M60]]'' [[V8 engine|V8]] 
| '''[[Diesel engine|Diesel]]''' ''([[turbocharged]])'':
| 2.4-2.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M21|M21]]''/''[[BMW M51|M51]]'' I6
}}
| wheelbase = {{convert|2760|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| length = {{convert|4720|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| width = {{convert|1750|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1412|-|1420|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|1440|-|1800|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web|title=Specifications for BMW 518i E34 Sedan (1989-1994)|url=http://www.bmwheaven.com/database/show.php?id=465|website=www.bmwheaven.com|access-date=13 January 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Specifications for BMW 540i E34 LCI Touring (1993-1994)|url=http://www.bmwheaven.com/database/show.php?id=497|website=www.bmwheaven.com|access-date=13 January 2017}}</ref>
| related = [[BMW M5#E34|BMW M5 (E34)]]
| model_code = E34
}}

[[File:5-er e34 Interior BMW PL.JPG|thumb|Interior]]

The '''BMW E34''' is the third generation of the [[BMW 5 Series]], which was produced from 2 November 1987, until 1996. Initially launched as a saloon in January 1988, the E34 also saw a "Touring" station wagon (estate) body style added in September 1992, a first for the 5 Series. BMW replaced the E34 with the [[BMW E39|E39 5 Series]] in December 1995, although E34 Touring models remained in production until June 1996.

The E34 generation marked the first time [[all-wheel drive]] was incorporated into the 5 Series with the 525iX, and the first V8 engine to be used in a 5 Series. The E34 also saw the introduction of [[stability control]] (ASC), [[traction control system|traction control]] (ASC+T), a 6-speed manual transmission and [[Active suspension#Magnetorheological damper|adjustable damping]] (EDC) to the 5 Series range.

There was an unusually large range of engines fitted over its lifetime as nine different engine families were used. These consisted of [[inline-four engine|straight-four]], [[straight-six engine|straight-six]] and [[V8 engine|V8]] engines.

The [[BMW M5#E34|E34 M5]] is powered by the [[BMW S38|S38]] straight-six engine and was produced in saloon and wagon body styles.

== Development and launch ==
Development ran from July 1981 to early 1987, with the initial design proposal penned by [[Ercole Spada]] in 1982.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.e34-ig.de/der-e34/ercole-spada.html |title=Ercole Spada, der Brief |website=www.e34-ig.de |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130506134635/http://www.e34-ig.de/der-e34/ercole-spada.html |archive-date=May 6, 2013 }}</ref> Under the guidance of chief designer [[Claus Luthe]], BMW based much of the design on the E32 7 Series. Following Spada's departure from BMW and styling approval in 1983, J Mays finalized the design for production in mid-1985. Special attention was paid to aerodynamics, with the E34 basic saloon having a drag coefficient of 0.30.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW Remembers Third-Gen E34 5-Series, You Should Too|url=http://www.carscoops.com/2017/01/bmw-remembers-third-gen-e34-5-series.html|website=www.carscoops.com|date=4 January 2017|access-date=24 December 2017}}</ref>

Series production began in November 1987.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}} In December 1987, the E34 saloon was unveiled to global press.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.welt.de/motor/news/article115355125/Tradition-25-Jahre-BMW-5er-E34.html|title = Lust auf Luxus und Leistung: Tradition: 25 Jahre BMW 5er (E34)|newspaper = Die Welt|date = 17 April 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Ercole Spada Wanted to Make the E34 5 Series Look More Like the 8 Series|url=http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ercole-spada-wanted-to-make-the-e34-5-series-look-more-like-the-8-series-85494.html#|website=www.autoevolution.com|date=20 August 2014}}</ref>
{{clear right}}

== Body styles ==
Saloon models have a length of {{convert|4720|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}, a width of {{convert|1750|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} and a height of {{convert|1412|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}.<ref name="carfolio.com E34">{{cite web|title=1993 BMW 525td E34 specifications|url=https://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=228085|website=www.carfolio.com|access-date=1 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=1989 BMW 525i specifications|url=http://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1989/268805/bmw_525i.html|website=www.automobile-catalog.com}}</ref> Wagon models have a length of {{convert|4720|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} and a height of {{convert|1420|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=56595 |title=BMW E34 525i touring | website=www.carfolio.com |date=2008-04-03 |access-date=2010-12-07}}</ref> All models have a wheelbase of {{convert|2760|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=56276 |title=BMW E34 530i sedan | website=www.carfolio.com |date=2008-04-03 |access-date=2010-12-07}}</ref>

<gallery mode="packed" heights="180px">
File:1996 BMW 518i SE, UK (21850687504).jpg| E34 saloon
File: 1995 BMW 525i (E34) Touring station wagon (2015-07-24).jpg| E34 Touring
</gallery>

== Engines ==
Official output figures are as follows:<ref name="automobile-catalogue">{{cite web |url=http://www.automobile-catalog.com/model/bmw/5-series_e34.html |title=BMW 5-Series E34 versions & types|website=www.automobile-catalog.com |access-date=25 March 2016}}</ref>

=== Petrol ===
{{Multiple image | align = right | direction = vertical
| image1   = M20B25.jpg
| caption1 = [[BMW M20|M20]] engine- used in early 520i/525i models
| image2   = BMW E34 Touring Lazurblau 1993 4.jpg
| caption2 = [[BMW M50|M50]] engine- used in later 520i/525i models
| image3   = Bmw-m30b35-right.jpg
| caption3 = [[BMW M30]] engine- used in the 535i/530i model
| image4   = M5 eng S38B36 PL.JPG
| caption4 = [[BMW S38]] engine- used in the M5 model
}}
{|class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;"
|- style="vertical-align:middle;"
!Model !! Years !! Engine !! Power!!Torque
|-
| rowspan=2|518i || 1989–1994 || [[BMW M40#M40B18|M40B18]] <br> inline-4 ||{{cvt|113|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 5,500 rpm ||{{convert|165|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,250 rpm
|-
| 1994–1996 || [[BMW M43#M43B18|M43B18]] <br> inline-4 ||{{cvt|115|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 5,500 rpm ||{{convert|168|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 3,900 rpm
|-
| rowspan=3|520i / 520iS || 1988–1990 || [[BMW M20#M20B20|M20B20]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|129|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br> at 6,000 rpm ||{{convert|164|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br> at 4,300 rpm
|-
| 1989–1992 || [[BMW M50#M50B20|M50B20]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|150|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br> at 6,000 rpm ||{{convert|190|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br> at 4,700 rpm
|-
| 1992–1996 || [[BMW M50#M50B20TÜ|M50B20TÜ]] <br /> inline-6 ||{{cvt|150|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 5,900 rpm ||{{convert|190|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,200 rpm
|-
| rowspan=3|525i<ref>{{cite web|title=1994 BMW 5 Series 525i|url=https://www.rarecars.com/used-vehicle-1994-bmw-5-series-525i-c-21/|website=Rare Cars|access-date=18 April 2020|date=14 August 2021}}</ref> || 1988–1991 || [[BMW M20#M20B25|M20B25]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|170|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 5,800 rpm ||{{convert|222|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,300 rpm
|-
| 1991–1992 || [[BMW M50#M50B25|M50B25]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|141|kW|PS|0}} <br/> at 6,000 rpm ||{{convert|245|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,700 rpm
|-
| 1992–1996 || [[BMW M50#M50B25TÜ|M50B25TÜ]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|141|kW|PS|0}}<br/> at 5,900 rpm ||{{convert|250|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,200 rpm
|-
| rowspan=2|530i || 1988–1991 || [[BMW M30#M30B30|M30B30]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|188|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 5,500 rpm ||{{convert|260|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,300 rpm
|-
| 1992–1996 || [[BMW M60#M60B30|M60B30]] <br> V8 ||{{cvt|160|kW|PS|0}} <br/> at 5,800 rpm ||{{convert|290|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,500 rpm
|-
| 535i / 535iS || 1987–1992 || [[BMW M30#M30B35|M30B35]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|155|kW|PS|0}}<br/> at 5,700 rpm ||{{convert|305|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm
|-
| 540i || 1992–1996 || [[BMW M60#M60B40|M60B40]] <br> V8 ||{{cvt|210|kW|PS|0}}<br/> at 5,800 rpm ||{{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,500 rpm
|-
| rowspan=2|M5 || 1988–1992 || [[BMW S38#S38B36|S38B36]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|315|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 6,900 rpm ||{{convert|360|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,750 rpm
|-
| 1992–1996 || [[BMW S38#S38B38|S38B38]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|340|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}}<br/> at 6,900 rpm ||{{convert|400|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,750 rpm
|}

=== Diesel ===
[[File:BMW M51 Engine.jpg|right|thumb|upright=0.9 |[[BMW M51]] engine used in 525tds models (note the intake air hose coming from the intercooler which is located below the radiator)]]

{|class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;"
|- style="vertical-align:middle;"
!Model !! Years !! Engine !! Power !! Torque 
|-
| 524td || 1988–1991 || [[BMW M21#M21D24|M21D24]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|115|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,800 rpm ||{{cvt|220|Nm|lbft|0}} <br/> at 2,400 rpm
|-
| 525td || 1993–1996 || [[BMW M51#M51D25|M51D25]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|115|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,800 rpm ||{{cvt|222|Nm|lbft|0}} <br/> at 1,900 rpm
|-
| 525tds || 1991–1996 || [[BMW M51#M51D25|M51D25]] <br> inline-6 ||{{cvt|143|PS|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,800 rpm ||{{cvt|260|Nm|lbft|0}} <br/> at 2,200 rpm
|}

=== Performance ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!1994 Saloon Models
!518i
!520i
!525i
!525ix
!530i
!540i
!525td
!525tds
|-
|Top Speed (mph)
|{{cvt|198|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|192|km/h|mph|0}}
|{{cvt|211|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|207|km/h|mph|0}}
|{{cvt|230|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|225|km/h|mph|0}}
|{{cvt|220|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|217|km/h|mph|0}}
|{{cvt|235|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|232|km/h|mph|0}}
|<nowiki>**</nowiki>{{cvt|250|km/h|mph|0}}
|{{cvt|194|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|190|km/h|mph|0}}
|{{cvt|207|km/h|mph|0}}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>{{cvt|205|km/h|mph|0}}
|-
|0-{{cvt|50|km/h|mph|0}}
|4.0 seconds
|3.4 seconds
|2.6 seconds
|3.0 seconds
|2.7 seconds
|2.3 seconds
|4.2 seconds
|3.6 seconds
|-
|0-{{cvt|80|km/h|mph|0}}
|8.4 seconds
|6.7 seconds
|5.8 seconds
|6.4 seconds
|5.6 seconds
|4.7 seconds
|8.8 seconds
|7.5 seconds
|-
|0-{{cvt|100|km/h|mph|0}}
|12.3/ *13.7 seconds
|10.6/ *11.7 seconds
|8.6/ *9.5 seconds
|9.5/ *10.3 seconds
|7.7/ *8.8 seconds
|6.4/ *6.8 seconds
|12.9/ *13.9 seconds
|11.0/ *11.6 seconds
|-
|0-{{cvt|120|km/h|mph|0}}
|17.2 seconds
|14.2 seconds
|11.8 seconds
|13.0 seconds
|11.0 seconds
|9.0 seconds
|18.2 seconds
|15.0 seconds
|-
|Standing Kilometer
|33.5/ *34.9 seconds
|31.5/ *32.9 seconds
|29.2/ *30.3 seconds
|30.3/ *31.4 seconds
|28.4/ *29.3 seconds
|26.3/ *26.8 seconds
|34.2/ *35.2 seconds
|32.1/ *33.0 seconds
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki> Automatic Transmission

<nowiki>**</nowiki> Governed (Auto/Manual){{clear right}}

== Drivetrain ==
=== Manual transmissions ===
* 5-speed [[Getrag 260 transmission|Getrag 260]]
* 5-speed Getrag 280 — 3.6&nbsp;L M5 model only<ref>{{cite web |title=5' E34 M5 3.6 Manual gearbox |url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=HD91-EUR-04-1989-E34-BMW-M5_36&diagId=23_0289 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=22 February 2019}}</ref>
* 5-speed [[List of ZF transmissions|ZF S5D 310]] — 91-92 US, and European M50 engines<ref>{{cite web |title=5' E34 525i Manual gearbox S5D...Z |url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=HD51-EUR-05-1992-E34-BMW-525i&diagId=23_1168 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=22 February 2019}}</ref>
* 5-speed Getrag 250G - 93-95 US M50 engines.
* 6-speed [[Getrag 420G transmission|Getrag 420G]] — 540i and 1994-1996 M5 only

=== Automatic transmissions ===
* 4-speed [[ZF 4HP22 transmission|ZF 4HP22]] - M20 and M30 engines
* 4-speed [[GM 4L30-E transmission|GM 4L30-E]] (A4S 310R) - M50 engines (US only)<ref>{{cite web|title=GM transmission and oil application chart|url=http://www.taligentx.com/passat/maintenance/atfchange/BMW_ATF.pdf|website=www.taligentx.com|access-date=25 April 2017}}</ref>
* 5-speed [[ZF 5HP18 transmission|ZF 5HP18]] - M50 and M51<ref>{{cite web|title=5' E34 525i Automatic gearbox A5S310Z|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=HD61-EUR-12-1992-E34-BMW-525i&diagId=24_1317|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=25 April 2017}}</ref> (except US) and 1992-1995 530i (M60B30).
* 5-speed [[ZF 5HP30 transmission|ZF 5HP30]] - 540i

== Suspension ==
Front suspension consists of double pivot [[MacPherson strut]]s, with a replaceable shock absorber cartridge inside a steel strut housing. Control arms and thrust arms control front-to-back and side-to-side movement.<ref>{{cite book|title=BMW 5 Series Service Manual- 1989 to 1995|publisher=Bentley Publishers|ref=Bentley}}</ref>{{refpage|page=300-1}} Steering on most models is a [[recirculating ball]] design, however the all-wheel drive 525iX uses a [[rack and pinion]] steering system along with front suspension similar to the [[BMW 3 Series (E30)|E30 3 Series]] 325iX model.<ref>{{cite web|title=Any 525iX Owners?|url=http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/topic/63947-any-525ix-owners/|website=www.bmw5.co.uk|access-date=27 January 2018|archive-date=28 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180128132716/http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/topic/63947-any-525ix-owners/|url-status=dead}}</ref> All front suspension components are steel, except that the lower control arms on some models are aluminum.<ref>{{cite web |title=5' E34 525i Cross member/wishbone/rod |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=HD61-EUR-10-1993-E34-BMW-525i&diagId=31_0250 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=23 February 2020}}</ref>

Rear suspension consists of [[Semi-trailing arm suspension|semi-trailing arms]] with coil springs integrated in a strut assembly.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E34 5 Series 520i Specs|url=http://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/1657/BMW-E34-5-Series-520i.html|website=www.ultimatespecs.com}}</ref>

== Models ==
=== Petrol-engined ===
The base model, available only in Europe,<ref name="automobile-catalogue" /> was the petrol-powered four-cylinder 518i. Only available with a 5-speed manual transmission, a total of 53,248 cars were produced.<ref>{{cite web|title=5'E34 model selection|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E34|website=www.realoem.com}}</ref>

The next petrol model up was the six-cylinder 520i, which began production in January 1988. It was initially powered by the [[BMW M20]] [[Overhead camshaft engine#Single overhead camshaft (SOHC)|single overhead camshaft]] engine, which was replaced by the [[BMW M50]] [[Overhead camshaft engine#Double overhead camshaft|double overhead camshaft]] engine in 1990. The 520i was the second most popular E34 model globally, with 426,971 units produced.<ref name="Production Data">{{cite book|title=BMW Production Data|publisher=e30ic.com|page=14|url=http://www.e30ic.com/BMWProductionData.pdf|access-date=10 March 2017}}</ref> The 525i was the most popular E34 model globally with 434,549 units produced.<ref name="Production Data" /> As per the 520i, the 525i initially used the M20 engine, which was replaced by the M50 engine in 1990.

Engine volume and year of manufacture often influenced the type of wiring. This was of great importance for decoding the configuration and the possibility of further retrofitting. Thus, cars can be divided into two types: high and low. Wiring had a big influence to the amount of possible options and functions of a car. There also was update after [[BMW M50|M50]] and [[BMW M60|M60]] introduce.<ref name="High&Low type of wiring">{{cite book|url=http://www.pet-racing.de/E34|title=BMW E34 Info page|publisher=pet-racing.de|location=Germany|page=|access-date=18 October 2021}}</ref>

A rare E34 model is the petrol-powered six-cylinder 525iX, of which only 9,366 cars were produced.<ref name="Production Data" /> The 525iX was the first [[all-wheel drive]] 5 Series, and the only all-wheel drive model in the E34 range. It was powered by the [[BMW M50]] engine and was the first 5 Series to use a rack and pinion steering system.

There are two versions of the E34 530i: an inline-six model produced from 1988 to 1990, and a V8 model produced from 1993 to 1995. The earlier model was one of the last applications of the [[BMW M30]] inline-six engine. The V8 version, which replaced the six-cylinder 535i in the lineup, was powered by the new [[BMW M60]] V8 engine and was available with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.<ref name="automobile-catalogue" /> Initially, the V8 models were differentiated from other models by the wide grill; in 1994 the wide grill became available on other models. Between the two versions of the 530i, a total of 57,570 cars were produced.

The highest six-cylinder model (except for the M5) was the 535i. Despite the '535i' model designation and '3.5' casting on the intake manifold, the [[BMW M30]] engine found in the E34 535i actually has a displacement of {{convert|3.4|L|cuin|0}}. There was also a 535i Sport model with M-technic body kit, boot spoiler with brake light, sport seats, M-Tech sports leather steering wheel (M-tech 1 for 1988-1989 cars, M-tech 2 for 1990–1992), M-technic suspension (M-tech springs, stiffer shocks, M-tech 25mm front stabilizer bar, M-tech 18mm rear stabilizer bar), a polished rocker cover and also a limited-slip differential (25% lock) as standard. A total of 97,679 cars were produced,<ref name="Production Data" /> including the Alpina B10 (BiTurbo, 3.5) models. The 535i was replaced by the V8-engined 530i and 540i models in 1993.

In 1993, the 540i model was added to the top of the 5 Series lineup, powered by the [[BMW M60]] V8 engine and available in both Saloon and wagon body styles (the latter not in US). Transmission options were a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic. A total of 26,485 units were produced.<ref name="Production Data" /> Initially, the V8 models were differentiated from other models by the wider grilles. In 1994 the wide grilles became available on other models as well.

=== Diesel-engined ===
The first diesel model was the 524td, which was introduced in 1988. This model was replaced by the 525tds in 1991, and a lower-specification 525td was introduced in 1993. Only the 525tds model was fitted with an intercooler.

=== North America ===
In the United States, the E34 model range was launched in October 1988 with the 525i and 535i 6-cylinder models (for the 1989 [[model year]]).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3711392|title = BMW Classic - Recherche-Client}}</ref> Over the course of the E34 generation, the 525i Touring, 530i, 530i Touring, 540i and M5 models were sold in the United States. The {{convert|3.6|L|cuin|0|abbr=on}} version of the M5 remained in production until 1993,<ref>{{cite web |title=Model selection: 5'E34 - Saloon - M5 3.6 - USA |url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E34&body=Lim&model=M5+3.6&market=USA&prod=19930200 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=22 February 2019}}</ref> by which time the {{convert|3.8|L|cuin|0|abbr=on}} version was being produced for other countries.
{{clear right}}

== M5 model ==
{{main article|BMW M5#E34}}
[[File:BMW M5 (2832061621).jpg|right|thumb|M5 model]]

Introduced in September 1988<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=12|title=BMW M Registry - FAQ E34 M5|website=www.bmwmregistry.com|access-date=2017-09-28}}</ref> and produced until August 1995, the E34 M5 was produced in both saloon and station wagon ('Touring') body styles, the latter being the first M5 to be available as a wagon.

The E34 M5 is powered by the [[BMW S38]] inline-six engine, originally with a displacement of {{convert|3.6|litre|cuin|0|abbr=on}} and an output of {{convert|232|kW|hp|0|abbr=on}}, later upgraded to a {{convert|3.8|litre|cuin|0|abbr=on}} engine rated at {{convert|250|kW|hp|0|abbr=on}}. This 3.8&nbsp;litre version of the M5 was first seen by the public at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show#1991|1991 Frankfurt Motor Show]], where the E34 M5 Touring also saw its debut.<ref name=":0" />

In its last year of production for the M5, the transmission was upgraded from a 5-speed manual to the [[Getrag 420G transmission|Getrag 420G]] 6-speed manual (which was also used by the 540i model).
{{clear right}}

== Special models ==
=== 518g ===
A model which could run on [[natural gas]] (as well as petrol) and was only sold in Germany. The 518g was based on the 518i Touring model and the only transmission available was a 5-speed manual.<ref>{{cite web|title=Model selection: 5'E34 > Touring > 518g|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E34&body=tou&model=518g&market=EUR|website=www.realoem.com}}</ref> The engine, also used by the 1995–2000 [[BMW 3 Series Compact#E36/5 (1993–2000)|3 Series Compact]] 316g model, was a re-tuned version of the [[BMW M43]] four-cylinder engine.<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW 518g Touring – Nothing But a G-thang |url=http://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-outtake/curbside-outtake-bmw-518g-touring-nothing-but-a-g-thang/ |website=www.curbsideclassic.com |date=12 April 2018 |access-date=22 August 2019}}</ref> When running on natural gas, the engine produced {{convert|73|kW|hp|abbr=on}},<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW 5 series E34 history and characteristics|url=http://bmwguide.net/bmw-e34-history-and-characteristics/|website=BMW Guide|access-date=13 January 2017|language=ru-RU|date=16 February 2015}}</ref> compared with {{convert|84|kW|hp|abbr=on}} when running on petrol. It was only produced in 1995 and just 298 units were built.<ref name="Production Data" />

=== 518iev prototype ===
After unveiling the BMW E1 and E2 concept car [[electric vehicle]]s in 1992, BMW began a project to show it was possible to make a full-sized electric car, despite the obstacle of the weight of the lead-acid battery technology at the time.<ref name=BMWCVTHybridSedan>{{cite web | url=http://www.metricmind.com/data/bmw.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040219141434/http://www.metricmind.com/data/bmw.pdf|archive-date=2004-02-19|title=Back from the future: BMW prototype with hybrid drive |publisher=MOT magazine| date=1995-04-02| access-date=2004-02-19}}</ref> The batteries were a lead-acid type and the electric motors used a rotating-field AC electric drive. To assist the electric drivetrain, the 518iev also had a four-cylinder petrol engine and a [[continuously variable transmission]], a configuration similar to the first production hybrid cars produced by other manufacturers several years later.<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW 5 Series (E34) - Rewind Wednesday |url=https://www.whatcar.com/news/bmw-5-series-e34-rewind-wednesday/n16694 |website=www.whatcar.com |access-date=26 February 2020 |language=en}}</ref> BMW built at least one fully functional E34 prototype, which was tested in the late 1990s by Deutsche Post and others.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}}

=== 540i M-sport / M540i / 540i LE ===
[[File:BMW 540i (4589152983).jpg|thumb|540i model with "throwing star" wheels]]
Because the M5 was discontinued for non-European markets in 1993, the 540i M-Sport model was built in 1995 for the North American market.<ref name="bmwmregistry.com">{{cite web|title=BMW M Registry - FAQ E34 M540i|url=http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=13|website=www.bmwmregistry.com|access-date=13 January 2017|date=4 October 2013}}</ref> On top of the regular 540i features, additional features included sports suspension equipped with EDC, bolstered sport seats, servotronic steering, and US-spec M5 brakes.<ref>{{cite web|title=M5 Alternative: 1995 BMW 540i M Sport|url=http://bringatrailer.com/2013/10/04/m5-alternative-1995-bmw-540i-m-sport/|website=Bring a Trailer|access-date=13 January 2017|date=4 October 2013}}</ref> 205 "M-Sport" models were built, 139 of them with the 6-speed manual transmission.<ref name="bmwmregistry.com"/>

An M540i model was produced for in Canada. It includes the features of the North American 540i M-sport, plus upgraded Euro-spec M5 brakes, 18-inch M-parallel wheels, and various trim pieces.<ref>{{cite web|title=The 1995 540i M-Sport and 540i|url=http://www.kindel.com/bmw/m540_info.htm|website=www.kindel.com|date=8 September 2000|access-date=3 December 2017}}</ref> Only 32 of these cars were built, all with a manual transmission.<ref name="bmwmregistry.com"/>

The 540i LE (i.e. Limited Edition) saloon was sold in Australia and the United Kingdom.<ref>{{cite web|title=1995 BMW 540i Limited Edition E34 Manual|url=https://www.redbook.com.au/cars/research/used/details/1995-bmw-540i-limited-edition-e34-manual/SPOT-ITM-210405#features|website=www.redbook.com|access-date=3 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=UK LE brochure|url=http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/e34-m5-discussion/45576-uk-le-brochure.html|website=www.m5board.com|access-date=3 December 2017}}</ref> The 540i LE included the interior from the M5, "throwing star" M-System II wheels, EDC suspension with self leveling rear, Servotronic power steering, and front air dam. 70 of these 540i LE saloons were produced, all with a manual transmission, each individually numbered using an engraved metal plaque stuck onto the centre console beneath the handbrake lever.<ref name="bmwmregistry.com"/>

== Alpina models ==

=== B10 3.0 AllRad ===
This model is based on the 525iX with an enlarged 3 litre engine producing 231bhp instead of 192bhp. Between 1993 and 1996 64 saloon cars and 70 Touring cars were produced by the Alpina factory in Buchloe with a very small number of right hand drive cars, 2 saloons and 1 Touring, converted by Sytner, the Alpina Dealer in Nottingham, England.

=== B10 3.5 ===
This model is based on the 535i with a modified 3.5 litre engine producing 254bhp instead of 220bhp. Between 1988 and 1992 572 left hand drive cars were made in Buchloe, with perhaps 30 or so right hand converted by Sytner.  The B10 3.5 was only supplied as a saloon car and no Touring cars were made.

=== B10 4.0 ===
This model is based on the 540i with a modified 4 litre engine producing 315bhp instead of 286bhp. Between 1993 and 1995 45 saloon cars and 4 Touring cars were produced by Buchloe, all left hand drive, with a further two right hand drive saloon cars converted by Sytner.

=== B10 4.6 ===
This model is based on the 540i with an Alpina designed 4.6 litre engine which was used also in the E36 Alpina B8 4.6. Between 1994 and 1996 27 saloon cars and 19 Touring cars were produced by Buchloe, all left hand drive except one right hand drive Touring car. With 7bhp more than the B8 4.6 (due to the larger exhaust manifold) it produces the same 340bhp as the E34 3.8 M5 Touring but with nearly 20% more torque. It was also available in right hand drive unlike the M5 Touring.

=== B10 BiTurbo ===
[[File:BMW_Alpina_B10_Biturbo_E34_(5701043210).jpg|thumb|right|B10 Biturbo model with Alpina wheels]]

The B10 BiTurbo was based on a highly modified 535i and introduced in March 1989 after a $3.2million investment in R&D. Despite being nearly twice the price of a BMW M5 it sold well and production ceased in 1995 after 507 saloon models were made, and only after BMW ceased producing the M30 engine upon which the engine was based. It was not available in right hand drive due to the turbochargers placement or as a touring model. It produced 360bhp and 375lb/ft of torque on full boost, just 20bhp and 21lb/ft more than the B10 4.6. Along with the [[Lotus Carlton]] it was considered one of the fastest saloon cars in the world.{{cn|date=June 2024}}

== Model year changes ==
BMW E34 had no [[Facelift (automotive)|facelift]] as such. All updates were introduced gradually and sometimes were country specific. Most changes occur in September each year, when the changes for the following [[model year]] go into production, as is typical BMW practice. Therefore, the changes for 1988 represent the 1989 model year, for example.

=== 1988 ===
* M5 model introduced
* 524td diesel model introduced
* 518i four-cylinder model introduced
* Driver's side airbag introduced

=== 1989 ===
* 520i engine updated to the [[BMW M50]],<ref>{{cite web |title=Model selection - 5'E34 - saloon - 520i - EUR - 09/1989 |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E34&body=Lim&model=520i&market=EUR&prod=19890900 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=26 February 2020}}</ref> the first model to use the new twin-cam straight-six engine

=== 1990 ===
* 525i engine updated to the [[BMW M50]] in some markets, 1991 in others.
* 525iX all-wheel drive model introduced
* 525tds diesel model introduced

=== 1991 ===
* 525i engine updated to the [[BMW M50]] in the US market.
* Touring ([[station wagon]]/[[estate car|estate]] models) introduced: 520iT and 525iT.
* Leather seat stitching pattern changed from double to single.
* Steering columns and wheels changed from E30-compatible (22mm nut) to E36-compatible (16mm bolt).
*New interior (wooden decor)

=== 1992 ===
* 520i and 525i engines updated to the [[BMW M50|BMW M50TU]], which added [[variable valve timing]] (VANOS)
* V8 engines introduced in the 530i and 540i models. The V8 models adopted a wider grille than other models.<ref>{{cite web|title=E34 facelift or not?|url=http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/topic/128771-e34-facelift-or-not/?tab=comments#comment-1388387|website=www.bmw5.co.uk|access-date=13 March 2018|archive-date=14 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180314042629/http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/topic/128771-e34-facelift-or-not/?tab=comments#comment-1388387|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* M5 engine enlarged from 3.6 litres to 3.8 litres
* Revised exterior mirrors and hubcaps
* Revised interior electrics, primarily with central locking. General Modules were black on early cars, green on later, and not interchangeable.
* 525i manual transmission changed from ZF 310Z to Getrag 250G, US market only.

=== 1993 ===
* 525td diesel model introduced
* Last year for 535i six-cylinder model,<ref>{{cite web|title=5'E34 535i model selection|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E34&body=Lim&model=535i&market=EUR&prod=19930400|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=13 March 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Used BMW 535i review: 1988-1993|url=https://www.carsguide.com.au/car-reviews/used-car-review-bmw-535i-1988-1993-13434|website=www.carsguide.com.au|access-date=13 March 2018}}</ref> marking the end of the 24-year production run of the [[BMW M30|M30]] engine
* 6-speed manual transmission available for 540i model (the first 6-speed manual available in a 5 Series), non-US markets.
* ASC became available

=== 1994 ===
* 518i engine upgraded from [[BMW M40]] to [[BMW M43]]
* M5 transmission upgraded from 5-speed manual to 6-speed manual
* Wider grille (previously used for V8 models only) became available for other models, non-US markets.
* US-market Touring models no longer equipped with [[self-leveling suspension]] as standard.
* EWS 1 drive-away protection used in some models.

=== 1995 ===
* All models equipped with wider grille and body-colour lower body trim (US market).
* Interior materials revised: steering wheel slightly different design with colour emblem, door cards ruched/gathered leather and with different glue (more durable between panel and its vinyl/leather covering, less durable between panel and mounting clips). 
* EWS drive-away protection updated to EWS 2.
* 540i available with 6-speed manual transmission for the US market, all with Sport seats and suspension.
* 540i automatic and manual models equipped with 2.93 final drive, previously 2.81 (US market, at least).

== Production ==
Production of the E34 commenced on November 2, 1987, for the 535i,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3711210|title = BMW Classic - Recherche-Client}}</ref> with 535i market launch being in January 1988 and other variants following a staggered launch. 520i and 530i production began in January 1988, for March 1988 market launch. Production of the 525i began in February 1988, being launched to market in April 1988, with the 524td entering production in March 1988 for May 1988 introduction. Touring production began in November 1990. Production ended for the saloon in December 1995 and Touring in June 1996.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3381957|title=Der erste Winter des neuen 5er BMW|website=bmw-grouparchiv.de|access-date=10 March 2018}}</ref>

The production plants for the E34 were the [[BMW Group Plant Dingolfing|Dingolfing plant]] in Germany and [[Rosslyn, Gauteng|Rosslyn]] in South Africa.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automotiveworld.com/oem-tracker/bmw-group/page/154|title=Vehicle manufacturer profiles|website=www.automotiveworld.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722125713/http://www.automotiveworld.com/oem-tracker/bmw-group/page/154|archive-date=22 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wheels24.co.za/News/Classic_cars/mzansis-amazing-fives-history-of-the-bmw-5-series-in-sa-20170321|title=History of the BMW 5 Series in SA|date=21 March 2017|website=www.wheels24.co.za|language=en|access-date=30 December 2018}}</ref> Total production was 1,333,412 units.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3894795 | title=BMW Classic - Recherche-Client }}</ref><ref name="kittler">{{cite book|title=Deutsche Autos seit 1990, vol.5|last=Kittler|first=Eberhard|publisher=Motorbuch|year=2001|isbn=3-613-02128-5|location=Stuttgart|page=165}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
*{{commonscat inline|BMW E34}}
{{BMW cars: 1980s to 2000s}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Bmw 5 Series (E34)}}
[[Category:BMW vehicles|5 Series]]
[[Category:Cars introduced in 1987]]
[[Category:Cars discontinued in 1996]] 
[[Category:1990s cars]]
[[Category:Saloons]]
[[Category:Station wagons]]
[[Category:Cars of South Africa]]
[[Category:Cars of Thailand]]