The BMW 5 Series E34 is the third generation of the Bavarian premium business sedan. The premiere of the new model took place in 1987, and sales started in 1988. In 1991, the all-wheel drive version of the BMW 525ix entered the market.

BMW E34 has been updated twice. First time in 1992 - the modified version can be identified by other mirrors. The new ones have become much more harmonious and acquired more aerodynamic forms. The M50 engine received a VANOS variable valve timing system, and a 5-speed one took the place of a 4-speed automatic. The driver's airbag no longer required a surcharge and was included in the list of basic equipment, like ABS.

Two years later, the BMW 5 Series E34 underwent another restyling. This time, the front grille has been changed, which is wider. From now on, the German sedan has become mandatory to be equipped with two airbags - the driver and the front passenger. In 1996, the E34 gave way to the next generation BMW 5 series E39. In total, 1,330,000 copies of the third generation "five" were sold. This is almost twice as much as its predecessor - E28.

Engines

Gasoline:

R4 1.8 8V (113-115 HP), 518i;

R6 2.0 12V (129 HP), 520i;

R6-VANOS 2.0 24V (150 HP), 520i;

R6 2.5 12V (170 HP), 525i;

R6-VANOS 2.5 24V (192 HP), 525i, 525ix;

R6 3.0 12V (184 hp), 530i;

V8 3.0 32V (217 hp), 530i;

R6 3.4 12V (211 hp), 535i;

V8 4.0 32V (285 hp), 540i;

R6 3.5 24V (315 HP), M5;

R6 3.8 24V (340 HP) M5.

Diesel:

R6 2.4 12V (115 HP) 524td;

R6 2.5 12V (115 HP) 525td;

R6 2.5 12V (143 HP) 525tds.

Looking at such a wide range of BMW E34 engines, a dilemma arises - which engine to choose, more powerful or more economical. But before making a decision, there are a few things to be clear.

If you are looking for a relatively economical gasoline engine, then you should pay attention to the 2-liter engine with variable valve timing VANOS. However, it must be borne in mind that sometimes this system fails. The dynamics with such a motor is not impressive - 10.6 seconds to 100 km / h. But low fuel consumption and rare breakdowns are guaranteed.

An 8-valve 1.8 liter is better not even to consider - it is too weak. Much preferable is the 120-horsepower BMW 520i with М20В20, which the Bavarian inherited from the previous generation E28 model. Its disadvantages: wear on the camshaft, rocker arms, valve seats, and sometimes the valves themselves.

The best compromise between fuel consumption and dynamics is provided by an in-line 6-cylinder 2.5-liter petrol engine, especially its 24-valve version (M50). Fuel consumption in the city is about 15 l / 100 km, and outside it - up to 10 l / 100 km.

Attention! All 12-valve versions of gasoline engines easily overheat, which leads to breakdown of the gasket under the head, and sometimes to damage to the head itself. To rule out the possibility of an accident, it is necessary to constantly monitor the state of the thermostat, and much more often than in any other car, look into the coolant tank. But above all, you need to pay close attention to the engine temperature gauge.

A typical disease of 6-cylinder gasoline engines is the failure of the water pump. Depending on the series, a plastic impeller was installed in them, which, as a result of exposure to high temperatures, became brittle and separated from the shaft. This led to overheating of the engine and deformation of the block head. It is comforting that metal impeller pumps are currently available.

The viscous coupling of the fan also requires attention. Its malfunction can lead to overheating of the engine and, as a result, to damage to the block head.

Powerful V8 engines, installed since 1992, and the top model M5 guarantee not only sporty dynamics, but also huge fuel, maintenance and repair costs. The most typical malfunctions: drop in compression, burnout of the collector gaskets and uneven operation.

The rest of the gasoline engines, although they consume an impressive amount of fuel, as a rule, do not create much hassle during operation. However, it must be borne in mind that the BMW 5 E34 is no longer young, and therefore malfunctions associated with high mileage are quite natural.

Diesel modifications are best avoided. Almost all of them force to solve problems caused by overheating of the block head and its subsequent cracking. In addition, the injection system is capricious and the turbocharger is not too hardy. Today, it is more and more difficult to find a service that can handle the repair of a Bavarian injection pump. In addition, diesel versions already have astronomical mileage. An attempt to find an unbroken copy borders on a miracle!

Engines of the M20 series (520i and 525i), as well as the 518i and 524td versions, are equipped with a timing belt that must be changed every 60,000 km. The rest of the units are equipped with an almost eternal timing chain.

Design features

E34 traditionally for BMW has rear axle drive. The model range also included an all-wheel drive modification of the BMW 525ix. The engines were combined with one of four gearboxes: 5 and 6-speed mechanics or 4 and 5-speed automatic. The chassis is based on MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear.

Typical malfunctions

First of all, you need to pay attention to the suspension components. Worn stabilizer struts and bushings, levers, silent blocks, ball joints and shock absorbers should not surprise anyone, because the car is already at a respectable age. If you do not save on substitutes, then after the repair you will not remember the suspension for a long time, because it has a rather strong structure. However, bad roads can quickly finish off the ball, bushings on the front levers and rear beam.

For age reasons, there are often problems with the steering. After 150-200 thousand km, a backlash appears in the steering gear, and then leaks. The parking brake requires regular maintenance.

One of the common ailments of the BMW 5 Series E34 is corrosion. It appears on the lower edge of doors, fenders, sills, trunk lid and fuel filler flap. Rust is often found on brake lines as well.

Electronics also does not stand the test of time: comfort module, central locking, power windows and heating.

An automatic transmission, if the oil and filter are changed in time, will work for a long time. But remember that the lack of only a glass of oil (0.2 l) leads to improper operation of the automatic transmission and to the rapid wear of its components. Nevertheless, often after 150-200 thousand km, malfunctions occur due to damage to the torque converter or planetary mechanism.

In the transmission, it is worth paying attention to the propeller shaft support and its joints, the rear differential and the axle joints. Problems with the above components are often found in cars from under the owner, who prefers to press the gas pedal harder and all the way to the stop.

Conclusion

Despite these shortcomings, the BMW 5 E34 is considered one of the most durable German cars of the late 80s and early 90s. Some would argue that the reliability of the Bavarian sedan can be compared to the Mercedes-Benz W124. Unfortunately, at one time, many cars fell into the hands of careless young drivers who did not feel too sorry for BMW and did not take good care of it. Today it is almost impossible to find an E34 in good condition. But if you succeed, you will be rewarded with excellent handling and dynamics, very rich equipment, decent comfort and timeless design. True, in addition to the above-mentioned malfunctions, the inconvenience can be delivered by the prices of some of the spare parts that are by no means cheap.

Sales market: Europe.

In the spring of 1994, all BMW 5-Series E34 models received an updated appearance in the form of a modified bonnet and wide radiator grille, which made them aesthetically more perfect. Previously, this distinctive feature concerned only the new BMW 530i and 540i models with the M60 V8 engine - as one of the elements of the prestige of more powerful modifications. Now this rule has been extended to other models, which additionally received a number of other changes. Another innovation for the E34 sedan was the base M43 engine, which replaced the previous 1.8-liter four M40.

The BMW E34 interior is traditionally focused on the driver: the center console is turned towards him, excellent ergonomics, comfortable steering wheel and pedals, comfortable fit with a wide range of adjustments. A massive front panel in a simple style and without any special frills, but with wood trim in expensive trim levels. The interior of the E34 is distinguished by high-quality plastics and upholstery materials, rich color combinations. Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, air conditioning, radio. The list of equipment offered for a surcharge is impressive: electric heated mirrors, electric windows, electric front seats, armrests, leather interior, sports seats, radio, sunroof and even a built-in telephone.

The M43B18 engine, installed under the hood of the 518i version, became the base engine for the 5-Series sedan models produced since the spring of 1994. The new unit with a chain drive and a new injection system had 115 hp. and improved the speed characteristics of the initial version of the sedan - the maximum speed increased from 192 to 198 km / h, the acceleration time to hundreds is 12.3 seconds, which is tenth less than the previous M40B18 with 113 hp. The rest of the line of units includes in-line "six": gasoline 24-valve M50 in models 520i (2.0 l, 150 hp), 525i (2.5 l, 192 hp) and diesel engines M51 in models 525td (2.5 L, 115 HP) and 525tds (2.5 L, 143 HP). As well as V8 M60 units represented by the 530i (3.0 l, 218 hp) and 540i (4.0 l, 286 hp) models. The latter was distinguished by the best speed indicators - a maximum speed of 250 km / h, acceleration to "hundreds" in 6.4 seconds. Only the M5 sedan was faster, which received a new engine (3.8 liters, 340 hp) - 5.9 seconds. to "hundreds".

The suspension of the BMW E34 is completely independent, rack-and-pinion type, with tuning in priority to sports qualities, therefore it is not too soft. The car has a standard rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive modifications of the 525ix with a multi-plate electro-hydraulic clutch were also offered, while the electronic system for controlling the distribution of thrust along the axes evaluates the condition of the brake system and the speed of the wheels from ABS sensors, as well as the position of the engine throttle valve. In normal driving, 36% of the thrust is supplied to the front axle and 64% to the rear. Steering E34 - with hydraulic booster. Disc brakes on all wheels (front ventilated), in simple versions, rear drum mechanisms. Body dimensions: length 4720 mm, width 1751 mm, height 1412 mm. The wheelbase is 2761 mm. The minimum turning radius is 5.5 m. The ground clearance is 140 mm. Trunk volume 460 liters.

The BMW E34 generation has a stricter approach to safety. For this quality, the 5-Series was considered one of the best in the class. Since January 1995, two airbags for the driver and front passenger become the standard for all trim levels (before the passenger was an option). The car also has a standard ABS system for more effective braking on slippery roads, and for a surcharge, an ASC traction control system was installed, which serves to prevent the wheels from slipping into slipping.

The BMW E34 has many advantages - from design to comfortable interior and equipment that was excellent for its time. One of the features of the BMW E34 is considered to be a rather whimsical suspension, which requires increased attention. Given the years of manufacture, there are difficulties in finding some spare parts. The owners call other disadvantages a weak head light, susceptibility to corrosion (a serious problem in cars with a hatch, where water is drained through the threshold). If we talk about motors, then 6- and 8-cylinder engines of this generation are considered to be samples of reliability (with proper maintenance), while an in-line "six" under the hood is the best option both in terms of maintenance cost and prevalence.

Read completely

It's no secret that the fifth models of both German giants of the automotive industry are very sworn competitors.

After the developers of Mercedes released an excellent car of the elite class, the Bavarians decided not to concede to them in anything, and decided to create a new BMW 5-Series e34, the technical characteristics of which would not be inferior to anyone.

It should be said right away that the engineers succeeded. And although the cars are different in style, they do not cease to be compared to this day. Moreover, opinions are divided approximately in half.

It must be said right away that the fifth model positions itself as a more sports car, so it is not always ideal for the role of a family or city car.

Exterior

The sedan was first introduced to the public in early 1988. And in the station wagon in 1992. For 4 years the car has practically not changed. The only thing that catches your eye is a slight extension of the branded "nostrils" on the grille.

It is important to note that, according to experts, the assembly and painting of the body of this model is close to ideal, however, there may be a fly in the ointment in the ointment. In some places, the car is very vulnerable to corrosion, and it is almost impossible to prevent this process.

Salon BMW 5-Series e34

As noted above, outwardly the car is really gorgeous. Just what are its dimensions: length - 4.72 m, width - 1.75 m, height - 1.41 m. However, oddly enough, this did not affect the cabin, which can hardly be called roomy. The main reason for this is the placement of large longitudinal motors, which occupy a significant part of the internal space. Therefore, it is not surprising that the driver's seat is a bit cramped, and certainly not the most comfortable.

Despite these inconveniences, the control itself is excellent. Traditionally, the dashboard is slightly rotated relative to the driver, which makes the driving process even more comfortable.

The position of the steering wheel can only be adjusted in height, but this is quite enough.

The slightly raised rear end makes it difficult to see and creates blind spots.

The capacity of the luggage compartment is impressive, which is 1,450 liters.

Basic equipment is roughly organized at the business class level. It includes the most essential safety and driving assistance systems as well as an on-board computer. The basic configuration in the station wagon body, additionally includes a roof with a sunroof.

Fans know that no matter how high-quality a car is, it will not last forever, so you should always be prepared for breakdowns. As mentioned above, the body is susceptible to corrosion, and the electronics and the wiper trapeze also often fail.

BMW 5-Series e34 engines

A type	Volume	Power	Torque	Overclocking	Maximum speed	Number of cylinders
Petrol	1.8 l	113 h.p.	161 H * m	12.4 sec.	194 km / h	4
Petrol	1.8 l	115 h.p.	168 H * m	12.3 sec.	198 km / h	4
Petrol	2.0 l	129 h.p.	162 H * m	11.9 sec.	203 km / h	4
Petrol	2.0 l	150 h.p.	190 H * m	10.6 sec.	211 km / h	4
Petrol	2.5 l	170 h.p.	222 H * m	9.5 sec.	221 km / h	6
Petrol	2.5 l	192 h.p.	250 H * m	8.6 sec.	230 km / h	6
Petrol	3.0 l	188 h.p.	260 H * m	8.5 sec.	227 km / h	6
Petrol	3.0 l	218 h.p.	290 H * m	7.7 sec.	235 km / h	V8
Petrol	3.4 l	211 h.p.	305 H * m	7.7 sec.	235 km / h	6
Petrol	4.0 l	286 h.p.	400 H * m	6.3 sec.	250 km / h	V8
Diesel	2.4 l	115 h.p.	220 H * m	12.9 sec.	192 km / h	6
Diesel	2.5 l	115 h.p.	222 H * m	12.9 sec.	194 km / h	6
Diesel	2.5 l	143 h.p.	260 H * m	11 sec.	207 km / h	6

Of course, the most famous and attractive part is the engines. The main feature is their noiselessness.

In general, there are 10 gasoline and 3 diesel units available for the car. For those who do not know, it will be interesting to read that the current designation of gasoline engines with the letter "i" has survived from the time when carburetor units with injection were used, which translates into English "injection".

The weakest engine is the M40 four-cylinder gasoline unit, which can be an excellent option for thrifty drivers. The strongest is the six-cylinder engine, which, despite its power, runs very smoothly and almost silently.

In mid-1992, two new BMW 5-Series e34 V-shaped gasoline engines appeared, designated 530i and 540i. The only drawback is the problem with oil leakage, which can occur after 150,000 km. However, fixing the problem is quite simple - install new gaskets on the valves.

As mentioned at the beginning, the developers offered only three diesel "engines" for the model. The 524td unit is considered the very first, but motorists did not like it because of its fragility and frequent breakdowns.

In 1993, an improved 525tds model appeared, which included an air cooling function.

German engineers still claim that diesel engines, even after decades, can function perfectly.

In 1992, the developers proposed the innovative VANOS system, which was responsible for changing the valve timing. However, it was appropriate only on new models, because on cars with decent mileage (from 200,000 km), it often failed. It is not difficult to notice this, because in this case, unpleasant noises appear in the front of the engine.

Quite often, a situation arises when oil consumption increases significantly. Usually, the main cause of the problem is the wear of the valve stem seals after 200,000 km.

Also, there are frequent cases of engine overheating, which is a real nightmare for motorists. If this happens, you need to change the radiator or cylinder heads without delay.

Reasons for overheating of the BMW 5-Series E34 engine:

• the radiator is clogged with dirt;
• the fan has become unusable.

As it turned out, the main disadvantage of all motors is the unreliability of their cooling system. Often, the main reason lies in valve defects that were produced before 1994.

The model is very capricious, therefore, if you use any other antifreeze except the proprietary one, malfunctions and leaks may appear.

As for the transmission, all models of the fifth series use both manual transmissions and automatic transmissions. They are incredibly practical and reliable, but only if you change the gear oil and transmission oil after every 50,000 km. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the type of oil, and select it according to the operating book.

Chassis

It's no secret that the suspension is stiff enough. Therefore, the car feels confident on the road, and perfectly fits even in the steepest turns. However, even the branded suspension is not intended for domestic roads.

The braking system was considered one of the best at that time, and with proper care it can serve for many years.

The model is rightfully considered a legendary car. And all of its shortcomings seem insignificant compared to the many advantages.

Alas, at the moment it is almost impossible to find a BMW 5-Series e34 with a relatively low mileage. But real pleasure can only be obtained from driving the new "five". However, he who seeks will always find. These words are relevant in our topic.

Video

The second generation was released in 1988, this is the BMW M5 e34, a model that was assembled by hand. The car was produced until 1995, and for all the time 12,245 models were produced. There was both a sedan and a station wagon, of which only 800 were produced.

The appearance practically does not differ from, but there are slight differences. The front of the car has a bonnet with raised lines in the middle. The optics of the car are 4 round halogen lights. The radiator grille has a chrome surround and is made in the classic style of the brand.

The front bumper is equipped with moldings, rectangular fog lamps at the bottom and headlight washers. There is also an air intake for cooling.

From the side, the car looks swift, the model is planted lower than the civilian version. The wheel arch extensions are small, but enough to make the car look stylish. There are also shallow design lines at the bottom and top.

At the rear, the car has a trunk lid, which by its shape forms a small spoiler. The taillights are also halogen, their shape is made in the classic style of the brand, even now the models have similar headlights. The rear bumper received a black molding and in fact nothing more.

Body dimensions:

• length - 4720 mm;
• width - 1751 mm;
• height - 1392 mm;
• wheelbase - 2761 mm.

The station wagon is extremely rare, but in terms of size it is the same.

Characteristics of BMW M5 E34

The car has two engines, the first was installed before 1991, and the second after. Both engines are named S38B36. The first one received a volume of 3.5 liters, it is an in-line 6-cylinder engine that produces 315 horsepower and 360 H * m of torque. With it, the car accelerates to a hundred in 6 seconds, and the maximum speed is limited to 250 km / h.

It works in tandem with a Getrag 280 5-speed manual transmission. The model is rear-wheel drive. The first engine will consume at least 18 liters in the city. Multi-point injection system.

In 1991, the volume of this unit was increased to 3.8 liters. Everything remained the same, but the power increased to 340 horsepower, and the torque rose to 400 H * m. All this gave a reduction in acceleration by 1 second, and at the same time the consumption fell by three liters.

The BMW M5 e34 engine is already paired with a Getrag Type-D 6-speed manual transmission. In order for the dynamics to be excellent, the revs must be at least 5,000. If you find the American version, then you will have 4 less horsepower, since there is a catalyst for the environment.

There is a nice suspension here that is completely independent and spring loaded. There is a two-wishbone system in front, a single-lever system in the back. The handling is good and the car is relatively comfortable.

The brakes are also excellent, they are fully ventilated, but you need to be careful with them, since ventilation does not help much, overheating is frequent. The hydraulic booster helps you to control, and the ABS system in braking.

Salon

Inside, the model looks a little old by modern standards. Both leather and fabric upholstery can be used here. The front seats have a little lateral support, which supports the driver and front passenger well.

The rear row has two seats as it is divided by a large armrest. There is enough space in the back, there are boxes for small items and a ski hatch. In some trim levels, there is heating, but unfortunately, only in the front.

The steering wheel of the BMW M5 e34 is trimmed with leather, it is a 4-spoke. The instrument panel has only analog gauges. There are small on-board computers and fault bulbs.

The center console received not so much interesting, everything is done in a classic style. The console is slightly turned towards the driver for easy handling. In the upper part there is a regular simple radio tape recorder that works on cassettes. Now all this equipment is being replaced with modern ones. Below is a simple climate control unit.

There is a large manual transmission selector on the tunnel. After it, we see the alarm button and the buttons for all electric windows. There is also a niche for small things and a parking brake handbrake.

The trunk here is the same as on the civilian version, that is, with a volume of 460 liters.

Price

This car can be bought on the secondary market, but it is extremely difficult to do. The fact is that there are very few options and the cost is different. There are options for 400,000 rubles, but there are for a million... In this case, it all depends on the year of manufacture and on the condition, but besides that there is still a degree of tuning, and there are tuned options.

In fact, the BMW M5 e34 is a great car, but we do not recommend taking it. This is an old model, the bodies are rusting, the reliability is not the same, and the repair is very expensive. Of course, this is a legend, but buying it is not worth it in our time.

Video

Sales market: Europe.

BMW E34 is the third generation of the "fifth" series, released in January 1988. Compared to its predecessor, the E28, which relied heavily on the design and aesthetics of the first E12, the E34 sedan is a completely new vehicle. It was distinguished by a modern, elegant and even somewhat aggressive appearance, a more spacious interior, while retaining in the design the classic features that were so popular with the brand's fans. With the introduction of the E34 series, the prestige of the BMW 5-Series range has significantly increased. Improved equipment, more new modifications, for the first time the "five" offers all-wheel drive, as well as a station wagon (E34 Touring). The line of engines of the BMW E34 sedan 1988-1994 includes gasoline and diesel engines with power from 113 to 286 hp.

The interior of the BMW E34 sedan is traditionally focused on the driver: the center console is turned in his direction, excellent ergonomics, comfortable steering wheel and pedals, comfortable fit with a wide range of adjustments. The massive front panel retains the rigor of style without any special frills, but with wood trim in expensive trim levels. The interior of the E34 is distinguished by high-quality plastics and upholstery materials, rich color combinations. Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, air conditioning, radio. The list of equipment offered for a surcharge is impressive: electric heated mirrors, electric windows, electric front seats, armrests, leather seats, sports seats, radio, sunroof and even a built-in telephone.

At the time of the launch of the E34 sedan, 6-cylinder petrol and diesel modifications were offered in production. Gasoline models were presented by the 520i, 525i, 530i, 535i models, the power of which is 129-211 hp. The diesel engine of the 524td model produced 115 hp. 1989 saw the introduction of a new base model 518i with the M40 inline-four and 113 hp. In 1990, new 24-valve 6-cylinder M50 engines arrived, increasing the output to 150-192 hp. In 1991, a new M51 turbodiesel appeared in the 525tds model (143 hp), and in 1992 the sixes with the VANOS variable valve timing system went into production: maintaining the same power indicators at high revs, the system improved the power curve at low revs ... In the same year, the aggregate line was replenished with the latest high-tech 32-valve V8 engines (M60 series), presented in the 530i (218 hp) and 540i (286 hp) models. In 1993, the 525td was presented with derated to 115 hp. modification M51. The E34 lineup included a sports sedan modification - the M5 from 1988 (3.5 liters, 315 hp). In terms of popularity, the most popular were the 520i and 525i, which had optimal performance. The diesel 525tds was also in great demand in Europe.

The suspension of the BMW E34 is completely independent, rack-and-pinion type, with tuning in priority to sports qualities, therefore it is not too soft. The car has a standard rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive modifications of the 525ix were also offered. This model received an improved all-wheel drive system, it uses a multi-plate electro-hydraulic clutch, while the electronic traction control system evaluates the condition of the braking system and the speed of the wheels from ABS sensors, as well as the position of the engine throttle valve. In normal driving, 36% of the thrust is supplied to the front axle and 64% to the rear. Steering E34 - with hydraulic booster. Disc brakes on all wheels (front ventilated), in simple versions, rear drum mechanisms. Body dimensions: length 4720 mm, width 1751 mm, height 1412 mm. The wheelbase is 2761 mm. The minimum turning radius is 5.5 m. The ground clearance is 140 mm. Trunk volume 460 liters.

The BMW E34 generation has a stricter approach to safety. For this quality, the 5-Series was considered one of the best in the class. The car has a stiffer body compared to the E28. The cars could be equipped with two airbags for the driver and front passenger, ABS system for more effective braking on slippery roads. Since 1992, the driver's airbag and ABS are standard on all E34 versions.

The BMW E34 has many advantages - from design to comfortable interior and equipment that was excellent for its time. One of the features of the BMW E34 is considered to be a rather whimsical suspension, which requires increased attention. Given the years of manufacture, there are difficulties in finding some spare parts. The owners call other disadvantages a weak head light, susceptibility to corrosion (a serious problem in cars with a hatch, where water is drained through the threshold). If we talk about motors, then 6- and 8-cylinder engines of this generation are considered to be samples of reliability (with proper maintenance), while an in-line "six" under the hood is the best option both in terms of maintenance cost and prevalence.

Read completely