The BMW 530i's engine is smooth and responsive. It glides
along quietly when cruising, feeling like finely engineered
machinery. Freedom from vibration is an
inherent benefit of inline-6 engines, and BMW's are among
the best. Nail the throttle and there's a growl akin
to BMW's race engines. There's also instant throttle response:
the 530i takes off like a rocket.
The 530i we drove offers an excellent balance with
high-performance throttle response and handling without
the expense of the 540i, which gets stuck with a Gas Guzzler
Tax. On the other hand, the 540i offers an incredible 324
pounds-feet of torque for brilliant acceleration performance.
The 525i represents an excellent value with the 2.5-liter
engine.
From 0-60 mph, the 530i is about a half-second quicker
than a 525i; you can feel that. Our 530iA was capable of
accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds; it could
perform this with the manual transmission in 6.8 seconds.
By comparison, a 525i accelerates from 0-60 in 7.3 seconds
with the manual, 8.0
seconds with the automatic. At the same time, the 530i returns
an EPA-estimated 21/30 mpg city/highway, though that drops
to just 18/26 mpg with an automatic transmission. All these
BMW engines require premium unleaded fuel. Both the 2.5-liter
and 3-liter engines were updated for 2001: A fully electronic
throttle system replaced the electromechanical type. As
a result, throttle response is even more precise than before.
Also, a new intake manifold and increased valve lift improve
performance.
We've tested the 540i in the past and found the 32-valve
V8 to be quiet and unobtrusive, making itself heard only
when pushed hard. It is powerful, covering 0-60 mph in less
than six seconds with the manual, slightly more than six
seconds with the automatic.
The 5 Series BMWs offer superb handling, regardless
of suspension package and powerplant. They are true sports
sedans, tracking precisely through corners with
minimal body roll. For the ultimate in razor-sharp road
behavior, the Sport suspension package is the choice. Stiffer
springs and shock absorbers result in a slightly harsher
ride quality, but enthusiasts may find this tradeoff in
comfort is more than made up for by driving pleasure.
Our 530i was equipped with this package and it reacted crisply
to steering inputs. Rippled pavement in downtown Washington
was quite noticeable through the seat of the pants. For
most people, the standard suspension (which is hardly standard)
is probably the better choice.
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Our 530i's Steptronic automatic transmission was excellent.
It responds quickly to a tip of the throttle, dropping down
a gear or two as needed. Equipped with adaptive electronics
that tailor shift programs to driving style, BMW's manual
transmissions work with precision and smoothness.
BMW designed the 5 Series cars to help the driver avoid
having an accident.
Every model is standard-equipped with Dynamic Stability
Control, which acts to help stabilize the vehicle in critical
cornering or avoidance situations. Augmenting the four-wheel
ventilated disc brakes, DSC includes antilock braking plus
Dynamic Brake Control, which helps ensure maximum braking
under emergency conditions.
BMW's brakes are absolutely superb: They feel solid,
like there's a direct connection between driver and brakes.
They slow the car right now, but at the same time are easy
to modulate, not grabby like some of the power brakes on
old American cars.
