BMW 5 Series (E12)

BMW 5 Series (E12)
Overview
Production	1972–1981
Model years	1972–1981
Assembly	West Germany: Dingolfing, Munich South Africa: Rosslyn Indonesia: Jakarta (Gaya Motor) Thailand
Designer	Paul Bracq Marcello Gandini
Body and chassis
Class	Executive car (E)
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout
Related	BMW 6 Series (E24)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol: 1.8-2.0 L M10 I4 2.0 L M20 I6 2.5-3.2 L M30 I6 3.5 L M90 I6
Transmission	4-speed manual 5-speed manual 3-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,636 mm (103.8 in)
Length	4,620 mm (181.9 in)
Width	1,690 mm (66.5 in)
Height	1,425 mm (56.1 in)
Curb weight	1,235–1,565 kg (2,722.7–3,450.2 lb)
Chronology
Predecessor	BMW New Class
Successor	BMW 5 Series (E28)

The BMW E12 is the first generation of 5 Series executive cars, which was produced from 1972 to 1981 and replaced the saloon models of the BMW New Class range.

Initial models were powered by inline-four engines, using either a carburettor or fuel-injection. A year after launch, the first model powered by a straight-six engine was introduced. By the final years of E12 production, most models used a straight-six engine.

There was no M5 model for the E12, however the E12 M535i is considered to be the predecessor to the M5. The E24 6 Series coupés were built on the E12 platform up until 1982. The E12 was replaced by the E28 5 Series in 1981, although the tools were sent to South Africa where E12 assembly continued (with E28 interiors) until 1984.