The BMW 524td, produced between 1983 and 1987, represents a unique chapter in the E28 5 Series lineage. Positioned as a fuel-efficient alternative within the range, the 524td was primarily aimed at European markets where diesel engines were favored for their economy and longevity. It offered a blend of 5 Series luxury and practicality with the added benefit of a turbocharged diesel powertrain, a relatively uncommon offering in the mid-size executive segment at the time. This variant, specifically equipped with the four-speed automatic transmission, catered to drivers seeking a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. The 524td was a response to growing demand for diesel-powered vehicles, offering a sophisticated option that distinguished itself from more utilitarian diesel offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series (E28) |
| Type (Engine) | 524td (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1983 |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 222 Nm @ 2400 rpm / 163.74 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M21D24 |
| Engine displacement | 2443 cm3 / 149.08 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm / 3.15 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm / 3.19 in. |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l / 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 11 l / 11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l / 16.24 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l / 18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal |
| Length | 4620 mm / 181.89 in. |
| Width | 1700 mm / 66.93 in. |
| Height | 1415 mm / 55.71 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2625 mm / 103.35 in. |
| Front track | 1430 mm / 56.3 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm / 57.87 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm / 5.51 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 524td is the M21D24 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-six cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes precombustion chamber injection, a system common in European diesels of the era. This system involves injecting fuel into a small pre-chamber connected to the main combustion chamber, promoting more complete combustion and reducing engine noise. The addition of a turbocharger and intercooler significantly boosted power output for a diesel engine of its time, bringing it to 115 horsepower and 222 Nm (163.74 lb-ft) of torque. The turbocharger provides increased air intake, while the intercooler cools the compressed air, further enhancing efficiency. The four-speed automatic transmission, a ZF unit, was chosen for its smoothness and ease of operation. While not known for its sportiness, it provided a comfortable driving experience, particularly well-suited for long-distance cruising. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency and relaxed acceleration, rather than rapid shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 524td automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline-powered siblings or even the manual diesel versions. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 12-13 seconds. However, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it surprisingly capable in everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and downshifts could be slow. The focus was on providing a comfortable and effortless driving experience, making it ideal for highway journeys. Compared to the 528i or 535i models, the 524td was significantly slower, but it offered substantially better fuel economy. The manual transmission version of the 524td provided a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic prioritized convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 524td automatic typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment for the early 1980s. This included power steering, central locking, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard configuration was typical of the E28, with a straightforward layout and analog gauges. Optional extras included a sunroof, air conditioning, and upgraded sound systems. The trim level was generally positioned as mid-range, offering a good balance of features and affordability. It wasn’t as luxurious as the higher-spec 535i, but it was better equipped than the base models.
Chassis & Braking
The 524td utilized the E28’s robust chassis, featuring independent suspension at all four wheels. The front suspension employed MacPherson struts, while the rear utilized a semi-trailing arm design. Braking was handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, although it wasn’t as sporty as some of the other E28 variants. The rear brakes were often smaller diameter than those found on the higher-powered models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 524td was generally well-received in European markets, where diesel engines were popular. Critics praised its fuel economy and smooth ride, but some noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the gasoline-powered 5 Series models, the 524td offered significantly better fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. However, it was slower and less refined. Compared to other diesel-powered cars of the time, the 524td stood out for its relatively sophisticated engineering and comfortable interior. Reliability was generally good, although the turbocharger could be a potential source of issues if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The BMW 524td, particularly the automatic version, has become a sought-after classic among enthusiasts. Its combination of 5 Series luxury, diesel efficiency, and relative rarity makes it a unique and appealing vehicle. The M21D24 engine is known for its durability, and well-maintained examples can still provide reliable service today. However, finding parts can be challenging, and specialized knowledge is required for proper maintenance and repair. In the used car market, the 524td commands a premium over other E28 models, reflecting its growing popularity among collectors and enthusiasts. It represents a fascinating chapter in BMW’s history, showcasing the company’s willingness to experiment with different powertrain options to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
