3 Series replaced

While the BMW 3 Series replaced the "New Class" coupes, the 5 Series replaced the sedans of that earlier range. Its most direct ancestor was the 2000 sedan. And while the 2000 earned accolades for both performance and accommodations, the 5 Series surpassed it in every measurable way. Some automotive pundits would say that it's the finest range of sports sedans in the history of things automotive. While those accolades are lofty, the 5 Series is certainly a landmark for both BMW and the entire automotive world