The enhanced BMW 5 Series E28 in 1981 from the car manufacturer BMW presented. Outwardly he was the predecessor model E12 are very similar, since the optical only slightly modified bodywork has been used. Above all, the passenger cell remained almost unchanged. Doors and seats were only in their details or fabrics changed. The dashboard with which to insert and, depending on the center console dual Motororisierung was angular and bulky design and involved larger schaumgepolsterte clash surfaces especially on the passenger side. Generally waited with the interior occupant protection serving massive padded linings on.

Completely redesigned, however, the vehicle rear end with a higher and significantly greater financial statements and wrinkled chromumrandeten and tail lights. Also something striking the vehicle fell with the broader front, the first BMW two-kidney, as well as the different sized double headlights on. The U.S. models were still large headlights with equal to the diameter of the inner beam. The bonnet was now open to the rear and closed flush from inside the fender. The chrome bumpers with Gummistoßleiste were attached to the rear and front as usual around to the wheel housings withdrawn, however, in a uniform thickness. The front turn signal and fog lights have been below that in the slightly larger front spoiler mounted. The side bumper on doors and fenders were in their nature, have been reduced, however, a few millimeters wider.

Under the sheet was significantly changed. He received a more front axle and the electrics were a variety of electronic components installed. Sun received an electronic injection gasoline engines. In 535i/M535i and 525e and the 520i from model year 86, the Motronic is used, while in the other models in the L-or LE-Jetronic was installed (in the 520i from model year 83, before K-Jetronic, the 518i from model year 85 previously carburetor).

Shortly after the presentation of ABS was also available. The M30-export versions and some versions with M20-motorizing were derived from the 3-(from 1983 in the E30) 6 Series E24 and E23, 7er series known check-control system, the key vehicle functions such as lighting and liquids (oil and coolant level) monitors.

The first time in history was also a BMW equipped with diesel engines, first with a 524 td which 85 kW/115 hp turbo diesel engine (internal designation M21), later known as 524 D as Saugdiesel with 63 kW/86 hp.