Lexus GS sedans are swoopy and sporty, the E-Class Mercedes-Benz looks, well, like a Mercedes, the Acura TL is

conservative, while the Infiniti J30 is not, and the Cadillac Catera is unobtrusive.

Amid these contenders, the 5 Series manages to stand out by presenting a beautifully proportioned elegant face to the

world, one that is recognizably BMW in origin from twin kidney-shaped grille to the large taillight clusters in back.

The overall shape of the 5 Series body is a well-done evolution of a handsome basic design that dates back more than

two decades.

There's more to the 5 Series than good looks. Its body shell is extremely rigid, a plus in terms of both safety and

noise reduction. With its low 0.30 coefficient of drag, the 5 Series is one of the most aerodynamically efficient

sedans on the market. Also aiding in keeping unwanted noise at bay are foam-filled body cavities and redesigned door

seals.

Two 5 Series models are available. The junior version is the 528i, powered by an inline 6-cylinder engine. Its

upscale brother is the V8-equipped 540i. Aside from their powerplants, the two 5 Series sedans are remarkably similar,

differing mainly in amenities, minor detailing and trunk lid badges.

Manual transmissions are standard with either engine; the 528i gets a 5-speed unit, the 540i a 6-speed. A 4-speed

automatic transmission is available for the 528i, a 5-speed automatic is an option for the 540i.

A sports suspension package is standard on the manual-gearbox 540i, optional on the other models. The sports suspension

comes packaged with 17-inch wheels. Otherwise, 15-inch (528i) or 16-inch (540i automatic) rims are supplied. Traction

control is standard on all but the 540i manual, which gets the enhanced Dynamic Stability Control system, a

computer-controlled unit that uses inputs from a variety of onboard sensors to apply brakes and/or reduce power in

extreme situations that might otherwise end in the car going out of control.