The elegant BMW 5 Series (E60)

Today, the most popular entry model into the German club in Uganda is the Mercedes Benz E Class; expressly the 2003 – 2009 Mercedes Benz E class W211. This is a good car – I mean it is a Mercedes. But, here is the thing, everything Mercedes comes up with, its traditional rival is either slightly ahead or slightly behind.
In 2007, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Kampala had the W211 Mercedes’ direct rival from Munich-based BMW, the 5 Series, also known as the E60 in BMW-speak, grace Kampala roads. While many would expect that Benzes would carry around the dignitaries for the meeting, BMW did just fine. The 5 Series is one of the oldest existing models in the history of BMW, starting as early as 1972.
With the initial E12 5 Series, BMW began the practice of naming models with a three digit designation stating both model series as well as engine displacement, in addition to many styling cues that would shape BMW design trademarks of the next 30 years. Progressing through the models after the E12, E28, E34 and E39, many of the models continued to evolve from the styling of the original E12.

Interior
The straight-lined dashboard is quite clean with a few knobs and buttons, which makes for easy access and operation. Virtually, all models shall come with leather seats. The interior exudes class. On the move, the cabin is quiet and very comfortable and the driving position is perfect. The steering is quite light and very precise.

Exterior
This is the one car you look at today in 2017, and you just cannot believe it is a 2003 model. This car has aged well. For a long time after 2007 CHOGM meeting, I wondered why the organisers had used BMW rather than Mercedes and all commercial reasons aside, I came to the realization that BMW is blatantly sporty and portrayed the urgent nature of the VIPs’ business.
Matching Uganda’s urgent treatment of anyone with a speck of VIP on their shirt on the road, this car looks like it is just ready to pounce. The Mercedes on the other hand is statelier in nature and looks – at the risk of upsetting current W211 E class owners – dull.
From the comfortable edges, to the oddly proportioned boot lid, save the BMW 7 series from the same era, there has not been a BMW that has had this kind of design impact. With the right colour and rims, particularly sport rims, this car still look good.

Performance
The 5 Series is the very embodiment of BMW’s well-known tagline, The Ultimate Driving Machine, from its excellent handling aided by the available Active Steering to its flat cornering response provided by the Active Roll Stabilization. Early 6-cylinder models are not very powerful by today’s standards as they were carryovers from the previous model, with the 2004-2005 525i powered by a 184-horsepower 2.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, and the 530i by a 225 horsepower 3.0-liter 6-cylinder. The V8-powered 545 develops 325 horsepower.
Most models from Europe, particularly the UK, shall feature a standard 6-speed manual transmission, however imports from Japan have 6-speed automatic. After 2006, the 5 Series’ engines get a bit more powerful, with the 525i’s 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine producing 215 horsepower, and the 330i’s turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder producing 255 horsepower. The 550i’s 4.8-liter V8 delivers up an impressive 360 horsepower.

Ownership
As with any used German car, regular service and maintenance are crucial, and given this, the 5 series should have a long life. Major mechanical components are long lasting. All engines in these models are capable of surviving to huge mileages in typically German fashion.
There are plenty of nicely presented examples with inevitable electrical issues. Service and maintenance can be expensive, but the assurances of rocking the BMW game compensate the inconveniences. Resale value is sort of a hit or miss as BMW are cars that are bought by specific people. Finding these can be hard though, when you find one, the sale or purchase can be a rewarding experience.
In Uganda, the closest you will get to a systematised BMW workshop is Motorcare. The official dealer stated on the BMW website is Bavaria Auto Kenya in Nairobi. Nonetheless, there are several independent garages and mechanics. Basically what this means is that when push comes to shove, there are only so many places you can take the 5 series to.

The bad stuff
All 5 Series have lots of electronics and they can be temperamental. When a major issue does arise, it can be tricky to locate and diagnose. Only specific mechanics, who have very particular experience with these cars, can help.
Spare parts are not as readily available as those of the Mercedes E Class so you will surely pay more for any replacement parts. Buying a used BMW may be cheaper than buying a new one, but it is still a premium luxury car requiring premium prices for routine maintenance, tyres and brake pads. If you are living on a tight budget, a luxury car like the 5 Series could prove quite costly over time.

Value
Today, the BMW 5 Series from 14 years ago can easily pass for a 5-year-old car if not parked next to the latest generation BMWs. The 5 series is more car than many newer cars in terms of handling, performance, quality of materials and comfort. If you are a fan of that angular styling, go right ahead and buy whatever model you can afford.
There is not a bad pick in the whole line up. If you are not so struck by the looks of the 5 Series, buy one anyway and hope they grow on you. Prices range from Shs35million, for earlier year models, to over Shs60million for later models.

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