The Evolution of the Five

These pictures were released by BMW to promote the recent launch of the new 5-Series. Visually, the evolution of the model over six generations is dramatic. I've only driven the first generation (e12), but there are only a couple other 5-Series built over the span of the last 35 years or so that I'd rather own than my 1978 530i (e39 M5 please!). The technology and creature comforts found in new cars are certainly impressive, but something has been lost in the process. There is something about the visceral connection between man and machine that moves the soul. Sadly, that connection is slowly fading and most people now seem satisfied with driving appliances.