BMW - 520 (1996)

Discover the enduring allure of the BMW 5 Series (520)—a timeless blend of performance, luxury, and understated design that has captivated owners since the mid‑1990s. The 1996 BMW 520 has become a popular reference point for those exploring classic German engineering, especially when considering the BMW 520 price and how it compares across different conditions and markets.

Whether you’re a collector estimating what a 1996 BMW 520 is worth, a buyer looking for a reliable used BMW 520 price, or simply curious about the long‑term value of this well‑engineered sedan, this overview delivers factual, easy-to‑scan information tailored for automotive enthusiasts and market researchers alike.

• Engine: 3.0‑liter inline‑6, producing 155 hp and 190 lb‑ft of torque
• Transmission: 5‑speed manual (optional 4‑speed automatic)
• Drive: Rear‑wheel drive (RWD)
• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
• Sizing: Length 193.3 in (4,907 mm), Width 68.3 in (1,735 mm), Height 56.4 in (1,433 mm)
• Wheelbase: 111.8 in (2,842 mm)
• Curb Weight: ~3,450 lb (1,566 kg)
• Top Speed: 134 mph (215 km/h) (manual)
• Acceleration 0–60 mph: ~7.8 seconds (manual)
• Fuel Economy: EPA estimate: 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
• Interior Features: Leather seats, power‑adjustable driver’s seat, dual‑zone climate control, and a premium audio system
• Safety: Standard ABS, optional side‑impact airbags, and a rearview camera (later models)
• Optional Tech: Navigation system, advanced sound system, and a more powerful 2.5‑liter engine available in higher‑trims

Ever wonder how a 1996 BMW 520 depreciates compared to other sedans or modern luxury cars? Over the decades, the BMW 520 depreciation pattern follows a fairly predictable curve:

• In the first year after purchase, it typically loses 15–20% of its value—common for luxury vehicles entering the used market.
• From year two to five, depreciation slows to about 6–8% per year, as the vehicle transitions from premium to mainstream pricing levels.
• After the fifth year, the vehicle’s value stabilizes, with most owners seeing a gradual decline of 1–3% annually as maintenance and mileage increase.

These figures are estimates and tend to vary with condition, mileage, and geographic demand. Nevertheless, the BMW 520’s classic chassis and renowned build quality often mitigate extreme value loss, especially for well‑maintained examples in good shape.

How does the BMW 520 price stack against similar vehicles from the same era? Below is a quick comparison against models that share the same luxury sedan space:

• BMW 520 (1996): 3‑door inline‑6, priced mid‑range among its peers.
• Mercedes‑C‑Class (W202 1996): Slightly higher power output, more luxurious interior, but also higher maintenance costs.
• Audi A4 (C3 1995–2000): Similar handling and sportiness but offers a more modern technology package if upgraded to 1999/2000 models.
• BMW 500/520 (E39 1995‑2000): The 520 sits just below the 530’s 3.4‑liter engine, offering a sweet spot for buyers balancing power and efficiency.

When considering what is a 1996 BMW 520 worth, these comparisons illustrate a price range that is often lower than newer luxury vehicles but still commands respect for its engineering pedigree.

Owners and collectors consistently identify the BMW 5 Series as an icon of the classic luxury car market