New BMW 5-series saloon set to challenge Alfa Romeo 164

Press, 22 January 1988, Page 25

New BMW 5-series saloon set to challenge Alfa Romeo 164

Following more closely than was expected on the heels of the V-Series launch, BMW, the Bavarian car-maker, will debut its new 5-Series saloon this month. It could be that the Munich manufacturer has brought forward the launch date from an anticipated September or October because of Alfa Romeo’s new 164 saloon which was launched before an appreciative motoring press late last year. The 5-Series BMW au . the Alfa 164 should prove

to be direct competitors. British specification examples of the 5-Series saloon will go on sale in the United Kingdom in June and it would not be surprising if they were to reach New Zealand dealers’ showrooms before the end of this year. Cars destined for Britain will be the 96 kW 520 i, 127.5 kW 525 i, 147 kW 530 i and 164 kW 535 i. In addition, special equipment SE models will be offered in 530 i and 535 i versions in Britain. They will come with leather upholstery and trim, air-conditioning,

ting the traditional grille in a metal frame, while the rear boot is also a distinguishing feature with its horizontal lip. Beneath its sleek body limited slip differential and self-levelling suspension. The 535 i will be fitted with 15in BBS rims shod with 220/55 tyres. The all-new body, at 427 cm, is about 10cm longer than the previous 5-Series and is wedge-like in profile with a large sloping rear screen. BMW has distinguished the car from the V-Series lookalike, giving it a different nose treatment, set-

the car follows the 7Series, the suspension being similar, but uprated springs and dampers give it a more sporting character. The 5-Series has more room, particularly in the rear compartment, while it virtually parallels the 7Series in electronic gadgetry.