Most BMW 5 Series cars you’ll come across new or used are rear-wheel drive; however, the current-generation lineup includes all-wheel-drive variants. Most 5s also have an inline six-cylinder engine, though BMW has offered V8 versions since 1994. Model names are numeric, with the first number identifying the car as a 5 Series and the last two historically, but not always, denoting engine size. Today’s BMW 528i, for instance, has a 3.0-liter inline-6. The final “i” originally distinguished 5 Series cars with fuel injection; these days, it only has significance in Europe where diesel models (that carry a “d”) are also offered.

When people ask us to recommend luxury cars, BMW’s 5 Series is invariably high on the list. Wealthier shoppers may gravitate toward the newer models loaded with technology, but older 5 Series cars can be just as satisfying to drive and own.

Current 5 Series

The BMW 5 Series is available in sedan and wagon body styles. Three engines are available on the sedan that correspond to the three trim levels (528i, 535i and 550i), with xDrive all-wheel drive available on the 528i and 535i sedans. The wagon comes in 535i xDrive trim only. The 528i features a 3.0-liter 230-horsepower inline-6, the 535i has a turbocharged 3.0-liter 300-hp inline-6 and the 550i has a 360-hp 4.8-liter V8. Every model comes with a standard six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.

On the surface, the 5 Series incorporates bold styling cues that depart from BMW’s traditional styling language established over the preceding four generations. Inside, the 5 boasts one of the most spacious and comfortable cabins in its class, particularly when optioned with the fantastic multicontour front seats, which adjust in seemingly infinite ways. A system called iDrive corrals audio, climate, navigation and communication functions using a central LCD screen and console-mounted control dial. We’ve found iDrive cumbersome to use, although other BMW models feature an upgraded system. Given its wide price range, the 5 Series can be equipped with a huge variety of luxury and technology features — from a heated steering wheel to a lane departure warning system.

The latest BMW 5 Series is a well-balanced machine that can handle aggressive driving on winding back roads just as easily as it dispatches weekday commutes on crumbling expressways. The 5′s adeptness at both ride comfort and handling prowess borders on the amazing. The steering is equally sublime, with perfect weighting and a near-telepathic feel. If you like the styling and aren’t intimidated by its hefty dose of electronics, the 5 Series is an excellent choice for a midsize luxury car. The only significant drawback is high pricing.

Used BMW 5 Series Models

The present fifth-generation 5 Series debuted for 2004. For 2004 and ’05, it was offered only in sedan form and only with rear-wheel drive. There were two six-cylinder models, the 184-hp 525i and 225-hp 530i, along with a top-line V8 version, the 325-hp 545i. Buyers looking at six-cylinder models would be wise to focus on 2006 and newer models, as the ’06 model year brought a new pair of 3.0-liter sixes, resulting in a more spirited 215-hp 525i and a 255-hp 530i. The V8 sedan was already quick, but it, too, received a new engine, a 360-hp 4.8-liter, and became the 550i.

The 5 Series wagon also arrived for 2006. It’s offered in a single 530xi model and all-wheel drive is standard. Additionally, all-wheel drive became optional for the 530 sedan. For 2007, additional standard equipment was added like an auxiliary input jack and BMW Assist, while new options include high-definition radio, BMW’s Night Vision system and 20-way adjustable front seats. The current crop of engines and model designations arrived for 2008.

Shoppers will have little difficulty finding representatives from the fourth generation (1997-2003). Many purists consider this the finest era for the BMW 5 Series, as exceptional on-road dynamics, premium furnishings and unparalleled refinement came together in one classically styled package. Resale value has always been high for this generation, so expect to spend more than you would for competitors of similar age. Reliability has been strong as well.

Provided it’s well-maintained, any car from this generation is worth your consideration. For 1997 and 1998, only sedans were offered: a 528i with a 190-hp, 2.8-liter inline-6 and a 540i with a 282-hp, 4.4-liter V8. The wagon joined the lineup in 1999 and was available with either engine, both of which gained variable valve timing that year. In 2001, the 528i sedan got a new 225-hp 3.0-liter six and became the 530i; the 528 wagon was dropped. BMW also added an entry-level, 184-hp 525i sedan and wagon to the lineup.

Third-generation BMW 5 Series cars (1989-’95) are still common as well. Although not as perfectly balanced as its successor, this car was highly regarded in its day. If you find one in good condition, you’ll almost certainly find it enjoyable to own. The best years were 1994 and ’95 when BMW offered V8 power in two 5 Series with the 530i sedan and wagon (215 hp), and the 540i sedan (282 hp).