The first-generation 5-Series (E12) was unveiled in September 1972. At the time, it was only 4.62 m/182 in. long. Reproduced by Maxichamps, this 520 was equipped with a 4-cylinder 2-litre engine (115 hp), increased to 130 hp on the 520i injection. The range grew progressively: 525 in 1973, 518 in 1974, 528 in 1975. This first-generation 5-Series only existed in sedan.