<P> The E12 is the first generation of 5 Series, which was produced from 1972 to 1981 . It replaced the New Class sedans and the initial 520 and 520i models were powered by inline - 4 engines . A year after launch, the first of the models powered by a straight - 6 engine - the 525 - was introduced . </P> <P> There was no M5 model for the E12, however the E12 M535i is considered to be the predecessor to the M5 . </P> <P> The E12 was replaced by the E28 in 1981, although E12 production continued until 1984 in South Africa . </P> <P> The E28 is the second generation of 5 Series, which was produced from 1981 to 1988 . It was initially produced with petrol 4 - cylinder and 6 - cylinder engines . In 1983, a diesel engine was available for the first time in a 5 Series . The E28 was the first 5 Series with the centre console angled towards the driver and the option of anti-lock brakes (ABS). </P>

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