High-resolution scans suitable for clear printing.
Binding Type
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Engine Code:
M30B28 (often referred to as the 2.8L variant for the 528i, but 525i used a 2.5L version of the M30)
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Performance
Horsepower Bhp:
Approx. 150-155 bhp @ 5500 rpm (varies slightly by market/tuning)
Torque Lb-Ft:
Approx. 160-165 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (varies slightly by market/tuning)
Fuel System
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (BMW Ignition System)
Engine Mechanical
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market)
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Water-Cooled
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
3-Speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 3 HP 22)
Features Manual
Clutch:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Features Automatic
Torque Converter:
Yes
Fluid Specifications
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W/90 or SAE 80W/90 Gear Oil
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4620 mm (181.9 inches)
Width:
1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
1420 mm (55.9 inches)
Wheelbase:
2700 mm (106.3 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1450 kg (3086-3197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 1900-1950 kg (4189-4300 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Era Specific Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings (like NHTSA NCAP) were standard in this era. Vehicles of this period were designed to meet existing passive safety regulations.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear seatbelts (standard)
Headrests:
Front headrests
Crumple Zones:
Designed with energy-absorbing crumple zones in front and rear.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional), often with upgraded aftermarket units available.
Speaker System:
Basic factory speaker setup.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Available as an option, representing advanced safety technology for its time.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
None (No factory Bluetooth or smartphone integration).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or newer, Viscosity SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 Liters (5.8 Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
50/50 mixture of BMW approved coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze) and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 specification brake fluid.
Known Issues
Fuel System Aging:
Degradation of fuel lines, injectors, and pump seals due to age and fuel composition.
Cooling System Leaks:
Common leaks from radiator, hoses, water pump, and thermostat housing.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts leading to poor handling and noise.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded connectors, failing relays, and aged wiring harnesses can cause intermittent electrical problems.
Rust Progression:
Rust can be an issue, particularly around wheel arches, rocker panels, and underbody components, due to age and environmental exposure.
Idle Instability:
Can be caused by vacuum leaks, faulty idle control valve, or fuel injection system issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW, established in 1916, is renowned for its focus on performance, driving pleasure, and engineering excellence in the premium automotive segment.
Model Evolution
E28 Introduction:
The E28 chassis, introduced in 1981 (as a 1982 model year in some markets), replaced the E12 5 Series and was a significant evolution in BMW's executive sedan line.
E28 Design Language:
Characterized by a more modern, squared-off design compared to its predecessor, with improved aerodynamics and interior comfort.
525I Positioning:
The 525i represented a balance of performance and efficiency within the E28 lineup, slotting below the more powerful 528i and 535i models.
Production
Production Years:
1981-1988 (for the E28 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Critical Acclaim:
The E28 generation was generally well-received by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refinement, solidifying BMW's reputation.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Era:
While specific ratings from this exact year are difficult to pinpoint without archive access, BMWs of this era were typically rated highly for reliability and performance by consumer organizations, though certain components (like fuel injection systems) could require specialized attention.