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2002
BMW 530

Starts at:
$39,450
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New 2002 BMW 530
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 530iA 4dr Sdn 5-Spd Auto
    Starts at
    $39,450
    18 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 530i 4dr Sdn 5-Spd Manual
    Starts at
    $39,450
    21 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530 2002 BMW 530

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Expert 2002 BMW 530 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
It’s been said that designers are at work on the next generation of BMW’s midlevel sedan and wagon, but the launch of those models is a couple years down the line. For 2002, the Sport Premium and Convenience option packages are gone, and an in-dash CD player is newly standard. The 5 Series fits between BMW’s smaller 3 Series and its flagship 7 Series sedan.

The 5 Series’ appearance was freshened for 2001. Base models equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine are called 525i, while those fitted with a larger 3.0-liter inline-six are designated 530i. The 4.4-liter V-8 that powers the 540i sedan and wagon was given a boost this year to 290 horsepower. All 5 Series models are rear-drive, have side-impact airbags for the front seats and come with a curtain-type Head Protection System. Side-impact airbags for the rear seats are optional.

The high-performance M5 sedan, which is fitted with a 394-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 engine and a six-speed-manual gearbox, also is available. Other 5 Series models may be equipped with either a manual or automatic transmission.

Exterior
With a 111.4-inch wheelbase, the 5 Series fits into the full-size category by cars.com standards, though some observers consider it a midsize model. At 188 inches long overall, the 5 Series is slightly shorter than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and nearly 9 inches shorter than the Lexus LS 430. In appearance, the 5 Series closely resembles its smaller and larger mates, all of which sport BMW’s familiar twin-kidney grille.

Interior
Seating is provided for five occupants. Front bucket seats have 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Standard equipment on all models includes remote keyless entry, a 10-speaker audio system, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, heated power mirrors and an alarm. The 540i sedan adds such extras as a moonroof, dual-mode automatic air conditioning and xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights.

Leather upholstery is standard in the 540i and optional in the 525i and 530i, which otherwise come with standard imitation-leather seating. All models can be equipped with an optional split, folding rear seatback and BMW’s navigation system.

Under the Hood
The 525i uses a 184-hp, 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, while a 225-hp, 3.0-liter inline-six goes into the 530i. Topping the regular lineup, the 540i gets a 4.4-liter V-8 that now produces 290 hp — 8 hp more than last year’s engine. Six-cylinder models are available with either a five-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. The 540i comes with a five-speed-automatic or six-speed-manual transmission.

The 540i actually costs more when fitted with a manual shift than with the automatic, but stick-shift versions come with a Sport Package that includes 17-inch tires and a tauter suspension. All 5 Series models are rear-drive only, unlike the smaller 3 Series, which offers all-wheel drive as an option.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags deploy according to crash severity and whether occupants are buckled up. Side-impact airbags for the front seats and BMW’s Head Protection System — which consists of curtain-type airbags that deploy to protect front-seat occupants — are standard. Side-impact airbags and head-protection curtains are optional for the rear seats. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system that BMW calls Dynamic Stability Control. The optional Park Distance Control detects obstacles to the front and rear of the car while parking it.

Driving Impressions
BMW manages to mix big doses of both sport and luxury in the 5 Series models. Drivers can expect the precise maneuverability and control of a 3 Series, coupled with quite a few luxuries near the level of the big 7 Series. Although suspensions are undeniably firm, especially if the sedan is fitted with a Sport Package, ride comfort remains pleasant over most pavement surfaces.

Performance is reasonably energetic even with the smallest six-cylinder engine, but the V-8 unleashes a veritable torrent of strength for supremely confident highway operation. BMW appears to strive for symmetry in each of its models, so the dashboard and its easy-to-read gauges look about the same, regardless of the size of the sedan.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com;
From the cars.com 2002 Buying Guide;
Posted on 11/28/01

2002 BMW 530 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
It’s been said that designers are at work on the next generation of BMW’s midlevel sedan and wagon, but the launch of those models is a couple years down the line. For 2002, the Sport Premium and Convenience option packages are gone, and an in-dash CD player is newly standard. The 5 Series fits between BMW’s smaller 3 Series and its flagship 7 Series sedan.

The 5 Series’ appearance was freshened for 2001. Base models equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine are called 525i, while those fitted with a larger 3.0-liter inline-six are designated 530i. The 4.4-liter V-8 that powers the 540i sedan and wagon was given a boost this year to 290 horsepower. All 5 Series models are rear-drive, have side-impact airbags for the front seats and come with a curtain-type Head Protection System. Side-impact airbags for the rear seats are optional.

The high-performance M5 sedan, which is fitted with a 394-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 engine and a six-speed-manual gearbox, also is available. Other 5 Series models may be equipped with either a manual or automatic transmission.

Exterior
With a 111.4-inch wheelbase, the 5 Series fits into the full-size category by cars.com standards, though some observers consider it a midsize model. At 188 inches long overall, the 5 Series is slightly shorter than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and nearly 9 inches shorter than the Lexus LS 430. In appearance, the 5 Series closely resembles its smaller and larger mates, all of which sport BMW’s familiar twin-kidney grille.

Interior
Seating is provided for five occupants. Front bucket seats have 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Standard equipment on all models includes remote keyless entry, a 10-speaker audio system, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, heated power mirrors and an alarm. The 540i sedan adds such extras as a moonroof, dual-mode automatic air conditioning and xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights.

Leather upholstery is standard in the 540i and optional in the 525i and 530i, which otherwise come with standard imitation-leather seating. All models can be equipped with an optional split, folding rear seatback and BMW’s navigation system.

Under the Hood
The 525i uses a 184-hp, 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, while a 225-hp, 3.0-liter inline-six goes into the 530i. Topping the regular lineup, the 540i gets a 4.4-liter V-8 that now produces 290 hp — 8 hp more than last year’s engine. Six-cylinder models are available with either a five-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. The 540i comes with a five-speed-automatic or six-speed-manual transmission.

The 540i actually costs more when fitted with a manual shift than with the automatic, but stick-shift versions come with a Sport Package that includes 17-inch tires and a tauter suspension. All 5 Series models are rear-drive only, unlike the smaller 3 Series, which offers all-wheel drive as an option.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags deploy according to crash severity and whether occupants are buckled up. Side-impact airbags for the front seats and BMW’s Head Protection System — which consists of curtain-type airbags that deploy to protect front-seat occupants — are standard. Side-impact airbags and head-protection curtains are optional for the rear seats. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system that BMW calls Dynamic Stability Control. The optional Park Distance Control detects obstacles to the front and rear of the car while parking it.

Driving Impressions
BMW manages to mix big doses of both sport and luxury in the 5 Series models. Drivers can expect the precise maneuverability and control of a 3 Series, coupled with quite a few luxuries near the level of the big 7 Series. Although suspensions are undeniably firm, especially if the sedan is fitted with a Sport Package, ride comfort remains pleasant over most pavement surfaces.

Performance is reasonably energetic even with the smallest six-cylinder engine, but the V-8 unleashes a veritable torrent of strength for supremely confident highway operation. BMW appears to strive for symmetry in each of its models, so the dashboard and its easy-to-read gauges look about the same, regardless of the size of the sedan.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com;
From the cars.com 2002 Buying Guide;
Posted on 11/28/01

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Certified Pre-Owned Elite with less than 15,000 miles; Certified Pre-Owned with less than 60,000 miles
Basic
1 year / unlimited miles from expiration of 4-year / 50,000-mile new car warranty
Dealer certification
196-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 31 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.6
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.7
Value 4.4
Exterior 4.7
Reliability 4.5

Most recent

  • Get One Today

    Bought new in 2002 my 530i just turned 101,000 miles and every one of them enjoyed. My "silver bullet" has a 5 speed manual transmission that is smooth, effortless and a gift to behold and experience. Inside and outside the 530i offers the owner everything that could be wished for in a vehicle. And the driving experience - the caption for the BMW is right on the money - it is the Ultimate Driving Machine! Get one today:) and enjoy!!!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • BMW is a dream driving machine.

    It's a great car to own. Runs great with stability to road grip as you speed up. Outstanding handling on the corners and curves. The six cylinder engine runs very well. Air conditioning works great - actually better than a new car. Very reliable.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • they dont make them like they use to

    never did i expect this cleanliness and reliability from a 2002 this car has tan leather seats that are still not stiff from aging. very happy
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best car I ever owned

    It's my first car and and 3rd project car my other two cars always seem to have problems or wen going through a transformation it take till im almost done for it to start looking good but my 530i 2002 always looks amazing and aggressive wen going to car shows and meets I would recommend this car to everyone just keep in mind it's an expensive car if it does brake down or u don't do the maintenance for the car as needed and properly
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • good cars

    this is a great car, runs and handles good, reliable, clean and hold value well, i have owned several bmw and they alwasys runs great
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Nice car.

    The car drove nicely. The styling is sleek and performance was good. Interior was average based on like vehicles. Handling was great. Overall it?s a nice car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 2002 BMW 530i - "The Highest Rated Sedan"

    In 2002, Consumer Reports declared their 530iA Sport the highest rated car they'd ever reviewed, objectively and subjectively. It's easy to see why; the E39 was a classic the moment it was introduced. It rides comfortably, but has great moves through the corners. It looks great, but the styling subtle and restrained. The transmission is smooth and fast. The 530iA is powerful, but can sip fuel with a gentle right foot. The optional DSP stereo sounds great, and the navigation system, while outdated today, was an amazing piece of tech for its time. Honestly, my biggest complaint is the E39's flimsy cupholders, and its appetite for cooling system replacements every 75,000 miles. Other than that, these turn of the millennia 5ers are some of the best cars BMW has ever made, right up there with the E30.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 3.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Nearly as bullet-proof as my E34 5-series!

    I bought my low-mile 530i sport/premium stickshift as a replacement for my E34 525i stick with 240,000 miles. I've owned the 530i now for two years and nothing has gone wrong with it. I drive it occasionally to keep it ready if the E34 should ever finally give it up. The 530 is a little bigger, a little smoother, perhaps with less feedback to the driver with the rack-and-pinion steering but it's still one of the best BMW sedans ever made. With Bluetooth it would be a perfect modern car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Love It!!

    The best car I've ever owned! I love the performance and styling of vehicle. I receive a lot of complements on the vehicle.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best BMW ever made

    I love this car. Not the the most reliable, but if taken care of and done all the preventative maintenance work its a great car. Lots o power and good on gas. Doesn't look outdated whatsoever
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 3.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • too many repairs

    Vehicle had 23k when i purchased it started leaks oil after 50k. repaired twice each repair lasted less than one year.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 2.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • bmw 530i

    Good condition, new parts, reliable, parts ranging from $2 and up, heated seats, silver little scratches but still drivable
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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BMW dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2002 BMW 530?

The 2002 BMW 530 is available in 2 trim levels:

  • 530i (1 style)
  • 530iA (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2002 BMW 530?

The 2002 BMW 530 offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2002 BMW 530?

The 2002 BMW 530 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2002 BMW 530 reliable?

The 2002 BMW 530 has an average reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2002 BMW 530 owners.

Is the 2002 BMW 530 a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2002 BMW 530. 90.3% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 31 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.6
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 4.7
  • Reliability: 4.5

BMW 530 history

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