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BMW 528i Sport Saloon - What Car?
01.03.2000 |
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If you've visited a BMW dealership lately to ask about an M5 you've probably realised there's more chance of Satan skating to work than getting hold of one before a year has passed.
But here's the next best thing, a 5 Series Saloon that looks like the `M' but has delivery times measured in weeks rather than months.
But this junior M5 only bears a cosmetic comparison. Underneath it's a standard 528i, packing half the power of the M5. That said, with a price tag of £33,995 it's just over half the cost too, albeit nearly £3000 more than the more straight-laced 528i SE model.
You do get a considerable amount of extra kit for your money, though. Restyled front and rear bumpers add to the 'M' illusion. So does the discreet boot lip spoiler and clear indicator lenses. Inside, aluminium-like trim is standard as is leather upholstery, and there's a smattering of M badges to keep enthusiasts happy. Lastly, you also get the firmer 'M' Sports suspension along with a handsome set of 17-inch alloys for it all to sit on.
Even with the slightly firmer suspension set up, the 5 Series is the most exquisite executive car to drive - and not just by some nit-picking margin. The handling changes may impair the low-speed ride quality a little, but at higher speeds its composure embarrasses every other rival. Grip, steering precision and general ability through corners too, are first rate.
But the 5 Series party piece has always been to combine this sort of ability with a relaxing (and refined) gait on the motorway and the Sport's no exception.
The 193bhp, 2.8 litre straight six is up and running from around 2000rpm, allowing you a leisurely build up of speed. Changing up nearer the red line, though, is rewarded with plenty of punch and a snarly engine note to go with it. Our car came with an optional auto box, which blunts performance a tad but slurs between ratios without drama. It also gives you the opportunity to DIY shift.
BMW has given buyers yet another reason to look no further than a 5 Series.