2000-2003 BMW 5 Series

For many BMW purists, the fourth-generation 5 Series epitomizes the sport sedan: sleek, talented, all but unrivaled at its game. These sturdy, well-engineered machines were retired in 2003, replaced by a platform that's longer, wider, and taller--but one that hasn't garnered the widespread accolades of the previous contender.

All-new in 1997, the 5 received subtle refinements during its life cycle, which kept it laps ahead of its competition. In addition to a generous level of standard amenities, buyers could tailor the luxury/sport ratio of their car with a dizzying array of options. The Premium Package elevated six-cylinder cars to V-8-equipment levels. The Sport Package stoked handling with firmer springs and shocks, larger anti-roll bar, lower ride height, upsized performance tires, and an M-sport steering wheel. The Sport Premium Package combined the best of both.

In 1999, a wagon joined the sedan, and a choice of engines was offered for each: the six-cylinder 528i and the V-8 540i. For model year 2000, most versions offered a five- or six-speed manual or an Adaptive or Steptronic five-speed automatic. Three-year/36,000-mile scheduled maintenance was now included at no extra charge, and Dynamic Stability Control was extended to the 528i as standard equipment.

Two updated sixes replaced the 2.8-liter version in 2001. With its 2.5-liter, 184-horsepower engine, the new 525i gave up some power but cost about $3500 less at entry-level than the previous year. A stouter 530i (sedan only), packing a 3.0-liter, 225 horsepower I-6 iteration, was just $575 more than the outgoing 528i. Base-model 15-inch wheels were dropped in favor of 16-inchers as standard equipment, an in-dash CD player was available for the first time, and freshened grille frames and new front/rear lamps appeared.

By 2002, horsepower in the 540i was up to 290, all models included the in-dash CD player, and Auto Climate Control became standard on the 525i. For a grand finale in 2003, a moonroof became standard on every car, and the 540i Sport Package--including its 18-inch wheels--offered most every M5 feature short of the M's 394-horse engine.