The BMW 525 was the first model of the new BMW 5 Series (E12) powered by a six-cylinder engine. It offered surprisingly sporty performance for a comfortable series sedan and it was therefore one of the most popular models in the series. The well-balanced harmony between level of equipment, performance, reliability and value for money were a key purchase argument for almost 128,000 customers. The BMW 525 was produced up until the BMW 5 Series (E12) came to an end in 1981.