The story of the BMW 5 Series began in 1961 with the launch of the BMW 1500 - an iconic model from what was known as “The New Class.” It was a revolutionary vehicle in the German mid-sized sedan category, boasting agile handling, a powerful engine, and comfort for five passengers. Models such as the 1800, 1600, 2000, and the high-performance 2000tii followed, establishing BMW’s reputation for blending luxury and sport. By the end of its production in 1972, this family of sedans had become BMW’s most successful lineup, cementing the foundation for what would officially become the 5 Series. That same year, BMW launched the first true 5 Series models, the 520 and 520i, introducing new design standards, advanced passive safety features, and early computerization in vehicle systems - a bold step into a more modern automotive era.
As the years progressed, BMW rapidly expanded the 5 Series range with models like the 525, 528, 530, and 535, pushing innovation, performance, and comfort further. By the end of this generation in 1982, BMW had more than doubled its output in the mid-size executive segment. In 1985, the 524td diesel model entered the scene, combining fuel efficiency with the dynamic driving BMW was known for. Just a few years later, in 1988, BMW unleashed the M5 in the U.S. market - powered by a 256-horsepower, 24-valve engine, it was among the fastest sedans in the world. That same year also saw the debut of the 535i, a model with underpinnings from the 7 Series, which delivered refined luxury and became one of BMW’s most celebrated success stories.
Throughout the 1990s, the 5 Series evolved in both size and stature. By 1995, the sedan had grown in every dimension, reinforcing its reputation for blending executive elegance with performance. In 1997, BMW launched the 540i Protection, Germany’s first factory-produced, light-armored security sedan - demonstrating how the 5 Series was adapting to the needs of a new kind of customer. When BMW introduced the E60 generation in 2004, it brought a bold new design language that initially divided enthusiasts and critics alike. Despite the early backlash, the E60 went on to outsell all previous generations, proving that innovation often requires daring choices.
The 5 Series has long set the benchmark in its class, becoming a reference point for competing brands. Its blend of performance, safety, style, and everyday usability mirrors the same customer-focused adaptability that SherlockLock has become known for in the locksmith industry. Just as BMW continuously evolves its engineering to stay ahead, SherlockLock innovates with the latest in lock technology and security standards to stay trusted and effective in homes and businesses across the region.
By 2010, the F10 generation took the reins, designed under Adrian van Hooydonk. This version returned to classic BMW styling cues while refining the vehicle’s handling and comfort. Its chassis featured advanced suspension architecture - a dual ball joint short-long arm system up front and a multi-link setup at the rear - delivering a smoother and more responsive drive. The interior shifted back to a driver-focused layout, correcting the controversial, center-neutral dash of its predecessor. With a new 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF and continued use of proven powertrains, the F10 proved to be a natural evolution in a model line that had always known how to balance performance with luxury.
From “The New Class” to a global symbol of premium driving, the BMW 5 Series has continuously defined what an executive sedan should be. Just as the 5 Series has grown more advanced and dependable with each generation, SherlockLock continues to redefine service excellence, providing Boston-area communities with trusted, precision locksmith services in an ever-changing world.