BMW 5 Series (E34)
The BMW E34 is the third generation of the BMW 5 Series, which was produced from November 2, 1987, until 1996. Initially launched as a sedan 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 E39 5 Series in December 1995, although E34 Touring models remained in production until June 1996.
| BMW 5 Series (E34) | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Production | November 1987 – June 1996 |
| Model years | 1988–1995 |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Ercole Spada and J Mays under Claus Luthe |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Executive car (E) |
| Body style | 4-door sedan 5-door wagon |
| Layout | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,760 mm (108.7 in) |
| Length | 4,720 mm (185.8 in) |
| Width | 1,750 mm (68.9 in) |
| Height | 1,412–1,420 mm (55.6–55.9 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,440–1,800 kg (3,175–3,968 lb) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | BMW 5 Series (E28) |
| Successor | BMW 5 Series (E39) |
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 (ASC+T), a 6-speed manual transmission and 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 straight-four, straight-six and V8 engines.
The E34 M5 is powered by the S38 straight-six engine and was produced in sedan and wagon body styles.