1990 BMW 5-Series Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

The Good

The 1990 BMW 5-Series boasts numerous advantages. Its smooth inline-six engines deliver engaging performance, appealing to emotional drivers, while its robust build quality and comfortable, well-designed interior satisfy practical needs. The timeless, elegant design retains its appeal, and for those seeking a classic driving experience, it offers exceptional value. Excellent handling combined with a refined ride ensures a satisfying experience.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 1990 BMW 5-Series include an aging cooling system with prone-to-fail plastic components, and potential electrical gremlins such as power window regulators and instrument cluster issues. Suspension components like bushings and control arms wear over time. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in areas exposed to harsh winters, and parts can be expensive.

1990 BMW 5-Series: Quick Overview

Here are the key specifications for the 1990 BMW 5-Series (E34):

• Engine Options:
  
  • 525i: M20B25 2.5-liter SOHC inline-six cylinder engine.
  • 535i: M30B35 3.5-liter SOHC inline-six cylinder engine.
  • M5: S38B36 3.6-liter DOHC inline-six cylinder engine.
• Horsepower (approximate for 1990 US models):
  
  • 525i: Approximately 168 hp.
  • 535i: Approximately 208 hp.
  • M5: Approximately 302-307 hp.
• Fuel Economy (EPA estimates, combined city/highway, highly dependent on transmission and driving style):
  
  • 525i (manual): Roughly 19-25 MPG.
  • 535i (manual): Roughly 17-23 MPG.
  • M5: Roughly 15-20 MPG.
• 0-60 MPH Times (approximate, factory data/period tests):
  
  • 525i: 8.5-9.5 seconds.
  • 535i: 7.0-8.0 seconds.
  • M5: 6.0-6.5 seconds.
• Towing Capacity:
  While not a primary selling point for the sedan in the US, European models with proper towing packages could typically handle around 3,500 lbs (1,500 kg) for the larger engine variants. US specifications often did not explicitly list towing capacity for passenger cars.
• Trim-Level Features:
  
  • 525i: Standard features included power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, anti-lock brakes (ABS), air conditioning, an AM/FM cassette stereo, and alloy wheels. Upholstery was typically cloth with leatherette or full leather as optional upgrades.
  • 535i: Building on the 525i, the 535i often came with more luxury amenities as standard, such as full leather upholstery, cruise control, an electric sunroof, an onboard computer, and an upgraded audio system. Optional sport packages offered firmer suspension and sport seats.
  • M5: The high-performance M5 was extensively upgraded. It featured a hand-built engine, a specially tuned sport suspension, larger high-performance brakes, a unique aerodynamic body kit, M-specific interior trim including supportive sport seats and an M-Technic steering wheel, and a limited-slip differential. Standard equipment was comprehensive, reflecting its flagship status, with further options like heated seats and premium sound systems available.

1990 BMW 5-Series Specifications

Vehicle History Report

What Problems Does the 1990 BMW 5-Series Have?

The 1990 BMW 5-Series, like many vehicles of its era, has a set of frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns that prospective owners should be aware of. While fundamentally a robust platform, deferred maintenance can lead to significant issues.

• Cooling System Vulnerabilities: This is perhaps the most critical and common issue for all E34 models, including the 1990 model year. The plastic components within the cooling system – specifically the radiator end tanks, water pump impeller (if plastic), and thermostat housing – are prone to becoming brittle and cracking with age. This often leads to leaks, premature failures, and a high risk of engine overheating, which can cause severe damage like head gasket failure. Proactive replacement of all cooling system components is highly recommended.
• Electrical Gremlins: Over time, the E34's electrical system can develop several issues. Power window regulators, particularly in the rear doors, are known to fail. The instrument cluster can suffer from "pixelation," where display segments fade or disappear. The HVAC blower motor final stage unit (resistor pack) is a very common failure point, leading to erratic fan speeds or complete loss of climate control fan operation. Aging wiring harnesses can also cause intermittent faults across various systems.
• Suspension and Steering Component Wear: Due to their age and the stresses of driving, suspension and steering components are common wear items. Control arm bushings, trailing arm bushings, and sway bar links frequently wear out, leading to clunking noises, loose steering, and compromised handling. Inner and outer tie rods also require eventual replacement. Power steering pump leaks and hose failures are also not uncommon.
• Engine-Specific Concerns:
  • M30 (535i): While very durable, the M30 engine requires diligent valve adjustments and proper oil changes to prevent rocker arm wear. Head gaskets are generally strong but can fail on neglected or severely overheated engines.
  • M20 (525i): This engine is known for head gasket issues, particularly if it has been overheated. Timely timing belt replacement (every 60,000 miles or 4 years) is absolutely crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
  • S38 (M5): The M5's high-performance engine demands meticulous and frequent maintenance. Issues can include throttle body synchronization, valve adjustments, and potential rod bearing wear if oil changes are missed or incorrect oil is used.
• Driveline Components: The driveshaft's flex disc (guibo) and center support bearing are prone to wear, causing driveline vibrations, especially under acceleration.
• Rust: Depending on the climate where the vehicle has spent its life, rust can be a concern. Common areas include wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and around the trunk seal.
• Recalls: While specific recalls for the 1990 model year might have been addressed decades ago, owners should always perform a VIN check for any outstanding safety campaigns. Historically, some E34s had recalls for minor electrical or brake system components.

In summary, the E34 can be very reliable with proactive and consistent maintenance, but neglecting these known issues will result in expensive repairs.

How long will the 1990 BMW 5-Series last?

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 1990 BMW 5-Series (E34) offered a commendable array of built-in technology, entertainment, and safety features for its time, though it naturally predates many modern advancements.

• Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
  Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM cassette stereo system. Optional upgrades could include a premium audio system, a trunk-mounted CD changer, and a sophisticated (for its day) onboard computer (OBC) providing data like fuel consumption, range, and external temperature. Cruise control was a common optional feature. Some higher trims or specific market models might have offered rudimentary car phone systems.
• Driver-Assistance Features:
  The most prominent driver-assistance feature universally standard was the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a significant safety advancement for the era, preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking. Power steering was, of course, standard across all models. While less common for 1990, some later E34s began offering Automatic Stability Control (ASC) as an option, providing early traction control functionality.
• Safety Features:
  Safety was a strong point for BMW. The 1990 US-spec 5-Series came standard with a driver's side airbag, which was still a relatively new and premium feature at the time, significantly enhancing frontal collision protection. Three-point seatbelts were standard for all outboard passengers. The E34's body structure was designed with robust crumple zones and a strong passenger cell, contributing to its excellent passive safety for its generation. A passenger-side airbag became an option or standard in later E34 model years but was less common for 1990.
• Crash-Test Ratings:
  Formal, standardized crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, with their modern grading systems, did not exist for vehicles of this vintage. Therefore, direct crash-test ratings comparable to today's standards are not readily available for the 1990 BMW 5-Series. However, BMW built the E34 to rigorous German safety standards, which often exceeded the requirements of many other markets at the time, earning it a reputation for being a very safe and structurally sound vehicle for its era. Its substantial build quality and robust design were considered advanced for 1990.

What Colors Options are Available?

1990 BMW 5-Series Prices and Market Value

1990 BMW 5-Series Cost of Ownership

1990 BMW 5-Series Fuel Efficiency

1990 BMW 5-Series Insurance

How Does the 1990 BMW 5-Series Compare to Other Vehicle?

The 1990 BMW 5-Series (E34) faced stiff competition from other premium sedans of its era, primarily the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, the Audi 100/200, and the then-new Lexus LS400, each carving out its niche.

• Performance: The E34 BMW 5-Series typically offered the most engaging and sporty driving experience among its German rivals. Its responsive steering and well-tuned chassis made it the driver's choice, especially with the potent 535i and the truly exceptional M5, which was in a league of its own. The Mercedes W124, while immensely refined, prioritized comfort and robust engineering over outright sportiness. Audi's offerings, particularly the turbocharged 200 Quattro, provided strong performance but with a different, often more stable, all-wheel-drive character. The Lexus LS400, while powerful and smooth, was designed for luxurious isolation rather than dynamic driving involvement.
• Features: All these rivals offered a high level of luxury for the time, including power accessories, air conditioning, and premium audio. BMW's onboard computer was quite advanced, while Mercedes often had a more traditional, "vault-like" feel. Lexus focused on technological refinement and quietness.
• Reliability: This is where distinctions became clearer. The Mercedes W124 is often hailed as a pinnacle of over-engineered build quality, renowned for its long-term durability if maintained. The Lexus LS400, being a Japanese newcomer, quickly set new benchmarks for reliability and trouble-free ownership. The E34 BMW, while having excellent core engineering, is known to be more maintenance-intensive, particularly concerning its cooling system and electrical components, which tend to age less gracefully than its rivals'. Audi models were generally considered solid but could have their own complex issues.
• Price (Current Used Market): Today, the E34 5-Series can present excellent value, though prices for pristine 535i manuals and especially M5s are appreciating significantly due to collector interest. Many W124 Mercedes models also command strong prices for well-kept examples, reflecting their legendary reliability. The Lexus LS400 remains arguably the best value proposition for reliability and luxury for the least money.

Recommended Alternatives:

• For unparalleled long-term reliability and luxurious comfort, the Lexus LS400 (XF10) is a compelling "better" alternative, albeit with a less sporty driving character.
• For tank-like build quality, a refined ride, and classic luxury, a well-maintained Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class (e.g., 300E) is an excellent "similar" alternative, leaning more towards comfort than the BMW.
• If seeking similar performance but with potentially better cooling system reliability, a later E34 BMW 525i with the M50 engine (1991 onwards) could be a "similar" choice, as the M50 was a more modern and robust engine design than the M20 in the 1990 525i.

Final Verdict: Is the 1990 BMW 5-Series a Good Vehicle?

1990 BMW 5-Series Owner Reviews

Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma