BMW 5 SERIES (1996-03) 520I 4DR SALOON 2.2 ES SE AUTO
The BMW 5 Series (1996-2003), specifically the 520i 4-door saloon 2.2 ES SE auto, is a well-regarded executive car known for its blend of comfort, reliability, and driving enjoyment. As a saloon, it offers a sleek, timeless design that appeals to those seeking a stylish yet practical vehicle. In the UK market, this model is often used by professionals and families who appreciate a refined driving experience combined with everyday usability. Its reputation for solid build quality and smooth auto transmission makes it a great choice for those looking for a dependable car suitable for regular commuting or longer trips.
What makes the BMW 520i stand out is its reputation for comfort and driving dynamics, offering a more refined experience compared to many rivals in its class. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient in its segment, its reliable performance and premium feel remain appealing. On average, owners have covered around 107,352 miles, indicating it is often used for regular, everyday driving, with about 4,600 miles driven per year. This model is best suited for those who value comfort, practicality, and a touch of luxury in their daily commute or family outings. Overall, the BMW 5 Series (1996-03) 520i 4DR SALOON 2.2 ES SE AUTO remains a popular choice for discerning drivers looking for a trusted, stylish executive saloon in the used car market.
average use
Based on the recent recorded mileages for the BMW 5 Series (1996-2003) 520I 4DR Saloon, the most common mileage range is 110,000 to 120,000 miles, accounting for 18.5% of the readings. Notably, a significant portion of vehicles—approximately 11.1%—have recorded mileages between 120,000 and 130,000 miles, indicating a tendency for these vehicles to accumulate higher mileages over time. Conversely, only small percentages of vehicles have quite low mileages, such as 0 to 10,000 miles (3.7%) and 80,000 to 90,000 miles (3.7%), suggesting that most vehicles tend to be driven extensively. There are also very few vehicles with extremely high mileages above 180,000 miles, comprising just 3.8% combined. Overall, the data shows a broad distribution with a concentration around the 110,000 to 130,000 miles range, typical for a vehicle of this age.
vehicle values
The data indicates that the majority of private sale valuations for the BMW 5 Series (1996-2003) 520I 4DR Saloon 2.2 ES SE Auto fall within the £1,000 to £2,000 range, accounting for approximately 85.2% of the valuations. A smaller proportion, around 13%, are valued at £0 to £1,000, while only 1.9% of valuations are in the £2,000 to £3,000 bracket. This distribution suggests that most private sales for this model are relatively budget-friendly, predominantly under £2,000, which reflects the age and typical market value of vehicles in this class and era.
production years
The data indicates that the majority of BMW 5 Series (1996-2003) 520I 4-door saloons with a 2.2 ES SE Auto are manufactured in 2003, accounting for approximately 79.6% of the sample. In contrast, a smaller proportion, around 20.4%, are from 2002. This suggests that most of these vehicles on the market or in recorded data are relatively recent within that production span, with 2003 models dominating the distribution.
colour popularity
The data indicates that the most common main paint color for the BMW 5 Series (1996-03) 520I 4DR Saloon 2.2 ES SE Auto is Silver, accounting for 42.6% of vehicles. Blue is also quite popular, representing 33.3%, while Black is less common at 22.2%. Grey is the least prevalent, making up only 1.9% of these vehicles. This suggests that Silver and Blue are the dominant choices among owners of this model, reflecting typical preferences for neutral and classic colours in this vehicle category.
ownership cycle
The data on registered keepers for the BMW 5 Series (1996-03) 520I 4DR Saloon reveals a diverse ownership history. The most common number of keepers is nine, accounting for 16.7% of vehicles, closely followed by seven and six keepers at 16.7%. Other notable figures include vehicles with five, eight, or four keepers, each representing around 9-13%. A small portion, approximately 1.9%, has had only two or 14 owners, indicating some cars have experienced multiple previous owners, possibly suggesting higher usage, trade, or multiple ownership cycles. Overall, the distribution shows a mix of ownership patterns with no single trend dominating, hinting at varied ownership backgrounds for these vehicles.
engine choices
The data indicates that all BMW 5 Series (1996-03) 520i 4-door saloons with the specified details are powered by petrol engines with an engine capacity of 2.2 liters (2171 cc). This suggests a consistent engine configuration across the sample, highlighting the model's reliance on a 2.2L petrol engine during its production period.
