01 · Überblick
The Slow Revver
The 525e (“eta”, the Greek letter for efficiency) reversed the logic: the 2.7-litre M20B27 was designed for low revs and high torque — 125 PS at just 4,250 rpm, 240 Nm from as low as 3,250 rpm, along with a long final drive ratio and fuel consumption figures that rivalled diesel engines.
In the USA it ran as the 528e, becoming the volume model. Today the 525e is a quiet rarity: usually worn out, rarely understood — and a piece of BMW efficiency history from before the turbodiesel era.
02 · Historie
Einordnung
- 1983 Market launch as a response to the second oil crisis — efficiency without diesel.
- 1987 Ends with the model line; the eta concept continues in the E30 325e.
03 · Karosserievarianten
Karosserievarianten
Limousine
Recognizable only by the badge — understatement was the point.
04 · Motoren
M20B27 ("eta") plausibel
Long-stroke design, small valves, mild camshaft — all for torque rather than revs.
Technische Daten anzeigen
| Hubraum | 2.693 cm³ |
| Leistung | 125 PS (92 kW) at 4,250 rpm |
| Drehmoment | 240 Nm at 3,250 rpm |
Wikipedia DE/EN, BMW E28
05 · Kaufberatung
Buying Advice in Brief
M20 classic: timing belt history essential, check head for cracks. Bodywork as with any E28.
06 · Die Konkurrenz
Die Konkurrenz
Mercedes 240 D (W123)
The efficiency duel: eta petrol engine versus swirl-chamber diesel.
07 · Quellen