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BMW 5 Series E12 518 (90 Hp)
Overall Rating
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 Overview:
BMW 5 Series (E12). With 145 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1230 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 13.9 s). The top speed reaches 160 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.
518 (90 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
An entry-level engine, offering adequate but uninspiring performance for daily commuting, not built for speed.
Fuel Economy
The most fuel-efficient option in the lineup, making it a sensible choice for cost-conscious drivers of the era.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic styling and timeless design by Paul Bracq.
- • Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling for its era.
- • Robust inline-six engines known for durability and smooth power.
- • Pioneering model for the successful 5 Series lineage.
Cons:
- • Lacks modern safety features and driver aids.
- • Fuel economy can be poor on higher trims by modern standards.
- • Rust can be a significant issue on unrestored examples.
- • Maintenance and parts for classic BMWs can be costly.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E12: 1973 - 1976).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 5 Series |
| Generation: | E12 |
| Modification (Engine): | 518 (90 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1974 |
| End of production: | 1975 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 90 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 51 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 145 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M10B18 More details about the engine M10B18 |
| Engine displacement: | 1766 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.25 l |
| Coolant: | 7 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 89 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 71 mm mm |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.5 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 160 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 13.7 kg/Hp, 73.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 8.5 kg/Nm, 117.9 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 13.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1230 |
| Max. weight: | 1700 |
| Max load: | 470 |
| 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): | 139 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Tires size | 175/80 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
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