Used 2026 BMW 5 SERIES for Sale

BMW's 5 Series, which fits between the compact 3 Series and the flagship 7 Series, has long been a top choice for luxury midsize sedans. It offers great performance, comfort, and technology across its eight generations. Used 5 Series buyers can choose from many body styles, including sedans, wagons (called Touring models by BMW), and, in some eras, a fastback. You can also find models with gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and now fully electric engines. The lineup has also spawned high-performance M5 variants, known for delivering sports-car levels of speed in a four-door package. Keep reading to learn more about this important model from BMW and why it's so highly sought-after.

Origin

BMW launched the 5 Series in 1972 as a successor to the New Class sedans that were emblematic of the brand in the 1960s. The model's name reflects its position in the lineup—larger and more premium than the 3 Series, but below the 7 Series.

First Generation (E12; 1972–1980)

The first-generation E12 introduced the 5 Series to the world in 1972. It was styled by Paul Bracq and featured a clean, modern design with the signature kidney grille that remains central to the BMW identity. The E12 was praised for its build quality and good acceleration, the latter of which was achieved by 1.8–3.5 L gasoline engines.

Second Generation (E28; 1981–1987)

The E28 built on its predecessor with more refined styling and better aerodynamics. It was also the first 5 Series to feature a diesel engine, cruise control, on-board computer, and optional anti-lock brakes, broadening its appeal. The M5 performance model also debuted with the second generation. However, it was not sold in all regions and didn't remain in the lineup continuously over time.

Third Generation (E34; 1988–1994)

The third-generation E34 came in a more modern and aerodynamic design. Launched as a sedan, it was expanded in 1990 to include a wagon for the first time. This generation brought in new features like traction control, a 6-speed manual transmission, and adjustable damping (EDC). Stability control was not introduced on the 5 Series until a later generation. Engines were 1.8 to 4.0 L inline-four, inline-six, and V8 gasolines, and 2.4–2.5 L inline-six turbodiesels.

Fourth Generation (E39; 1995–2002)

The fourth-generation E39 is widely regarded as one of the greatest BMWs ever built, striking the ideal balance of elegance with robust engineering. It introduced aluminum suspension components for better handling and weight reduction, and interior quality took a leap forward with soft-touch materials and advanced infotainment for its time. For the E39, the gasoline engines were 2.0–4.9 L inline-sixes and V8s, with the M5 getting a 4.9 L V8. The diesel engines were 2.0–2.9 L inline-four and inline-six engines.

Fifth Generation (E60/E61; 2003–2009)

The fifth-generation 5 Series, with its bold style by Chris Bangle, was much more technologically advanced. It was the first 5 Series to have iDrive, BMW's central control system, as well as features like adaptive headlights and active steering. It was also the first time some models had a six-speed automatic transmission and regenerative braking, but turbocharged gas engines were not available until the next generation.

Sixth Generation (F10/F11/FF07/F18; 2010–2016)

With its sixth generation, the 5 Series returned to more conservative styling, while growing in size and increasing the level of comfort. Besides the sedan and wagon, the sixth generation also came as a five-door fastback (Gran Turismo) and a long-wheelbase sedan for China. This generation was the first to have a hybrid engine and active rear-wheel steering, but the dual-clutch transmission was only used on the M5 model.

Seventh Generation (G30/G31/G38; 2017–2023)

Built on BMW's CLAR platform, the seventh-generation 5 Series used lightweight materials such as aluminum and magnesium to improve handling and fuel economy. Inside, it featured a digital instrument cluster, gesture control for infotainment, and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Engine choices spanned from four-cylinders to powerful V8s, while plug-in hybrid models catered to those concerned with fuel costs and emissions.

Eighth Generation (G60/G61/G68; 2024–present)

The eighth-generation 5 Series features a sleeker design with a minimalist interior dominated by a curved digital display. It was further pushed into electrification with the launch of the battery-electric i5. This generation is the first to get the iDrive 8.5 infotainment system that offers a range of video streaming options and some in-car gaming features. The eighth generation offers a new vegan leather-like material, but real leather is still an option, and the steering wheel is wrapped in either leather or the new vegan material.

Engine Performance & Technology

The BMW 5 Series has always stood out for offering a wide selection of engines, from efficient four-cylinders to high-performance V8s and M5-specific powertrains.

From 2010, turbocharging became common on many models in the lineup, contributing to better performance and fuel efficiency. Models after 2007 also feature BMW's suite of EfficientDynamics technologies for reducing fuel consumption.

Safety & Reliability

BMW has consistently equipped the 5 Series with leading safety features. Early models were among the first in their class to adopt ABS and stability control. Newer 5 Series models can come with advanced safety technologies such as lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and even semi-autonomous driving features.

While the 5 Series can be reliable with proper care, some generations and engine types are known for having more issues and are more expensive to maintain.

Trim Configurations

The 5 Series has always offered a wide variety of trims and body styles, such as a sedan, wagon, or fastback, to suit different buyers. Standard models emphasize luxury and comfort, while the performance M models add stiffer suspension, more powerful engines, upgraded wheels, and performance styling. From 2010 onwards, the 5 Series has also been offered with a hybrid drivetrain, and from 2023, as a battery electric model known as the i5.

Conclusion

The 5 Series is the embodiment of luxury and driving pleasure, and buying one used offers the chance to experience premium German engineering at a more accessible price. Get your Ultimate Driving Machine in great condition and at a great price here with BE FORWARD.

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