Introduced in spring 1996 as an early 1997 model, the redesigned mid-level BMW sedan showed evolutionary styling changes rather than a dramatic redesign. Initially offered only as a sedan. The new 5 Series came in two forms: with a I6 cylinder engine as the 528i, or with a V8 as the 540i.
Standard equipment included dual front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, power steering, and air conditioning
