BMW E28 VIN Decoder with Full Vehicle History, Options, and Specs Report
Find out the full background of any BMW E28 with the help of our dedicated BMW E28 VIN decoder.


How to Check BMW E28 VIN Decoder?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for a BMW is a distinctive 17-character code exclusive to every BMW automobile. This identifier is not only unique to each vehicle but also encodes details about the vehicle’s model year, type, engine size, and additional characteristics, making it an essential tool for identification and information.
The VIN of a BMW E28 can be located in various places on the car such as:
- On the dashboard on the driver’s side, which can be seen from outside through the windshield.
- The jamb of the driver’s side door.
- In the engine area, either on the firewall or the radiator support.
- On the car’s registration and title papers.
By following these steps, you can easily access a wealth of information about any BMW vehicle, ensuring a deeper understanding of its heritage and features.
The BMW E28 is the second generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1981 to 1988. It built on the success of its predecessor, the E12, by offering improved performance, more advanced technology, and increased comfort. The E28 was available with a variety of petrol and diesel engines, catering to a wide range of performance and efficiency preferences. Below is a table summarizing the key engine variants offered in the BMW E28 lineup.
BMW E28 Engine Overview
Model | Engine Code | Configuration | Displacement | Power Output | Production Years |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
518 | M10B18 | 4-cyl, 8-valve | 1.8 L | 90 hp | 1981–1984 |
518i | M10B18 | 4-cyl, 8-valve | 1.8 L | 105 hp | 1984–1988 |
520i | M20B20 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.0 L | 125 hp | 1981–1987 |
524td | M21D24 | 6-cyl, 12-valve, Turbo | 2.4 L | 115 hp | 1983–1987 |
525e | M20B27 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.7 L | 122-129 hp | 1981–1987 |
525i | M30B25 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.5 L | 150 hp | 1981–1987 |
528e | M20B27 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.7 L | 122 hp | 1981–1988 (North America) |
528i | M30B28 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 2.8 L | 184 hp | 1981–1987 |
533i | M30B32 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 3.2 L | 182 hp | 1983–1984 (North America) |
535i | M30B34 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 3.4 L | 218 hp | 1985–1988 |
M535i | M30B34 | 6-cyl, 12-valve | 3.4 L | 218 hp | 1985–1988 |
Notes:
- The 524td was BMW’s first diesel model for the 5 Series and one of the first turbocharged diesel cars available, showcasing BMW’s innovation in diesel technology.
- The 525e (called 528e in North America) was designed for efficiency, using a high-torque, low-revving engine to reduce fuel consumption while still providing adequate power for comfortable driving.
- The M535i, although not a full Motorsport division model like the later M5, was a high-performance model that offered sportier handling and styling cues, setting the stage for the M5’s introduction.
- The E28 M5, introduced in 1985, became the fastest production sedan in the world at the time, powered by an enhanced version of the M88/3 engine, but is not listed in the table as it’s often considered a separate model due to its unique positioning.
The BMW E28 5 Series is celebrated for its classic design, durability, and the driving experience it offers, making it a beloved model among BMW enthusiasts and classic car collectors
What you can get from checking your VIN of your BMW E28

Damages
No one desires a vehicle with undisclosed damages. This could lead to paying more than necessary or encountering safety concerns on the road.
Mileage rollbacks
Mileage manipulation is a more widespread issue than you may realize. It not only results in overpaying for the vehicle but can also lead to significant repair expenses.
Recorded images
Understanding the vehicle's appearance in the past is crucial for gaining insights into its history and identifying any areas of damage or vulnerability.
Safety recalls
Manufacturers usually issue safety recalls to address dangerous defects. Ensure that your vehicle does not have any such defects before driving it.
Ownership changes
Understanding the number of previous owners a vehicle has had is important in determining its sales history. This information can provide insights into any potential underlying problems.
Theft records
We thoroughly examine millions of records from both international and local law enforcement agencies to ensure that a vehicle has not been reported as stolen in any country.

Car history report
Avoid costly problems by checking a car’s history. Just enter the VIN and get a full report.