1997 BMW 5-Series Magnificent possession. By Ray Thursby, New Car Test Drive .com

It's all too easy to let the adjectives flow when describing a BMW. Sophisticated engineering, attractive and understated design, jewel-like finish quality and road behavior matched only by a select few competitors can't help but make an impression on even the most jaded test driver.

The company's 5-Series sedans have long been favorites with automotive

journalists and customers alike. From the beginning they have blended performance and luxury in a most appealing way. In effect, they have traditionally

been slightly smaller versions of BMW's flagship 7-Series sedans, built

to the same standards and carrying most of the same features, yet more

maneuverable and less expensive.

Several manufacturers have compact luxury sedans in their catalogs:

Audi offers the A6, Mercedes-Benz the E-Class, Lexus and Infiniti have

the GS 300 and J30 respectively, Acura has the TL, and Cadillac has recently

weighed in with the German-built Catera. There's a considerable price spread

among these contenders, though the final price of any of them will depend

on equipment level and/or the dealer's need to move cars out quickly.

Even among such high-class company, the 5-Series makes a strong case

for itself. You may have to shell out a substantial chunk of money for

one, but you'll get what you paid for, and more.