BMW 5 Series E12, Facelift 1976 520 (122 Hp)

Overall Rating

8.1 / 10

Safety N/A / 5

Not Rated

Engine 4.8 / 5

Value 3.8 / 5

Performance 4.0 / 5

Comfort 3.5 / 5

People\'s Opinion N/A / 5

Not Rated

BMW 5 Series:

The BMW 5 Series is an executive car manufactured and marketed by BMW since 1972. It is the successor to the BMW New Class sedans and is currently in its eighth generation. The car is sold as either a sedan or, since 1991, a station wagon. A 5-door fastback was sold between 2009 and 2017. Each successive generation has been given an internal G-code designation since 2017. Previously, a F-code designation was used between 2010 and 2016, while an E-code designation was used between 1972 and 2010. These are used to distinguish each model and generation from each other....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E12, Facelift 1976 Overview:

BMW 5 Series (E12, Facelift 1976). With 160 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1310 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 12.4 s). The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

520 (122 Hp) Verdict:

Performance Verdict

The base model, offering adequate but uninspiring performance, suitable for city driving and those prioritizing economy over speed.

Fuel Economy

The most economical option in the lineup, though still relatively thirsty by modern standards, with a listed 10.3 l/100 km.

Best Use Case: City / Commuting

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Timeless, elegant design with classic BMW styling cues.
• Engaging driving dynamics and responsive steering for its time.
• Range of smooth and powerful inline-six engines, especially the M30.
• Solid build quality and robust mechanicals.

Cons:

• Lacks modern safety features and driver aids.
• Fuel economy can be high, particularly for larger engines.
• Rust can be a significant issue on unrestored examples.
• Interior comfort and features are basic by today's standards.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E12, Facelift 1976: 1976 - 1977).

General:
Brand:	BMW
Model:	5 Series
Generation:	E12, Facelift 1976
Modification (Engine):	520 (122 Hp)
Start of production:	1977
End of production:	1981
Powertrain Architecture:	Internal Combustion engine
Body type:	Sedan
Seats:	5
Doors:	4

Engine:
Power:	122 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:	61.3 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:	160 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:	M20B20VE More details about the engine M20B20VE
Engine displacement:	1990
Number of cylinders:	6
Engine configuration:	Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:	2
Fuel injection system:	Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:	Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:	4.25 l
Engine layout:	Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:	80 mm mm
Piston Stroke:	66 mm mm

Performance:
Fuel Type:	Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:	10.3 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:	12.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:	12.4 sec
Maximum speed:	180 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:	10.7 kg/Hp, 93.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:	8.2 kg/Nm, 122.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:	11.8 sec

Space:
Kerb Weight:	1310
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:	440 l
Fuel tank capacity:	70 l

Size:
Length:	4620 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:	1690 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:	1425 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:	2636 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:	1406 mm
Rear (Back) track:	1442 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):	140 mm

Powertrain:
Drivetrain Architecture	The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheel	Rear wheel drive
Number of gears	5
Transmission type	Manual
Front brakes	Disc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakes	Drum [bad for performance and cooling.]