BMW 5-Series Saloon 518i SE 4d (1996/N) Owner Review
-
Economy
Value
Great value for money as not many people want this car, because of the smaller engine. Used prices reflect this so you can get a real bargain. Own a BMW for the price of a Ford - Can't be bad!
Costs
In 4 yrs replaced brakes, clutch, filters etc. Regularly get 35+mpg on a 30mile run to work. Tyres are VERY expensive. 518 Has metric run-flat tyres at £170/tyre great safety feature but too expensive. Look for replacement wheels in sets from Halfords etc
-
On the road
Driving
Drives like a BMW should, although getting tired now after 113k miles. Not so good driving position for tall people as i can't see speedo between 30 & 90mph as steering wheel obscures the view of the speedo
Performance
518 does lack "get up and go" although saying that I have 9 points for speeding. On the motorway it is hard to imagine you are driving a 1.8 car. Engine retains power at high revs, but lacks that extra go you want to overtake slower vehicles.
-
Living with it
Reliability
Not one day, in 4 years of ownership, has this car let me down. Hand on heart it is superb, which is why I still have it and haven't got another car. Normally I only keep a car 18 months, but this car will stay till it dies!
Image
Image? Its a BMW! clean lines, strong looking stance on the road...what more do you need? Again, it's a BMW!
Comfort
Comfort is good, with the wide tyres and typical BMW refined suspension. Although at 113k miles it is getting tired and you feel this. Road noise is a little high, as is wind noise. Higher than Id like, but not obtrusive. Maybe wider tyres are to blame?
-
Security and Service
Security
I've not had it broken into yet, like my other cars, so perhaps that is a good sign of how secure it is? Always feel safe driving this car, rigid body shell, ABS and the BMW badge make me feel safe!
Service
BMW garage treat you with the respect you deserve, regardless of how old your car is. I was surprised at how fast their spares department work too. First class and top marks for that
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Rattles a bit now after 113k miles. Doesn't smoke, use any oil or water. Just rattles a bit more than usual. Nothing to worry about there I don't think as it never skips a beat.
Other
No other faults.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes