The 5-Series is BMW's mid range line up of performance
sedans and sport wagons. It has six models altogether but
three are particularly powerful V8 models, really a cut
above the rest. That's not to say that the entire line is
skimpy in any way. This may not be top-of-the line for BMW
but it is certainly a luxury car series. Make no mistake
that the entire 5-Series offers high levels of comfort and
convenience features, good quality content and materials,
excellent power profiles and first-rate performance and
handling technology.
Available Models
The three V8 5-Series cars are the 2003 BMW 540i Sedan,
the 2003 BMW 540i Sport Wagon and the 2003 BMW 540i 6-speed,
a performance sport sedan with some of the highest production
and performance values in the BMW stable.
Interior Features
The interiors of the 5-Series cars are pretty luxurious.
Standards include dual-zone automatic climate control, vinyl
upholstery on 10-way power front bucket and rear split-fold
bench seats, heated power mirrors, wood trim, rain-sensing
wipers, an automatic day/night rearview mirror or optional
seat upgraded seats.
The 2003 BMW 540i 6-speed, as the top, has a slightly higher
standard trim level than the other two with only a few feature
not included. Heated seats, a Park Distance sensor and the
12-speaker stereo upgrade are not included.
Several well-designed and comprehensive packages can be
chosen as well. The Sport or Premium Packages can offer
upgraded luxury content and materials, or performance enhancements
to the form and function of the car.
Exterior Features
The distinctive BMW 4-headlight aerodynamic nose featuring
halogen ellipsoid lights, car-speed sensitive front and
rear (wagon) wiper/washer and defog make for superior visibility
from any of these models. Halogen fog lights, heated windshield
washer jets, heated side mirrors and metallic paint are
all standards also. Rain-sensing wipers and Xenon headlights
are also included at this level. Luxury add-ons like the
liquid high-pressure headlight cleaning system are extra.
Performance
All three of BMW's 540i performance vehicles, whether you
choose the sedan, the sport wagon or the 2003 BMW 540i 6-speed,
are equipped with the same 4.4-liter V8 engine. This makes
for one high-powered family car. However, it is absolutely
confident and assured on highways and long journeys partly
because of the ample power. This engine pumps out 290 hp
at 5400 rpm and 324 lb-ft of torque at 3600. It comes with
a 5-speed automatic transmission with optional manual shift
capability.
The six-speed manual is available for those interested
in a more exciting responsive and challenging skin-of-your-teeth
driving experience. It maximizes acceleration and lends
a purer driving feel to the experience but mileage suffers
slightly. This powertrain configuration achieves 15/23 mpg
(city/hwy). The regular AT set-up manages slightly better
18/24 mpg.
Safety and Security
Active safety includes traction control, an antiskid system,
4-wheel antilock disc brakes and more. Front and side airbags,
curtain side and torso side airbags also enhance 5-Series
safety.
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