BMW introduced the 520i variant of their E34 5 Series for the 1988 model year. Over the course of production, BMW used three different engines to power the E34 520i. At first, it was fitted with BMW's 127hp M20B20 inline six engine, but from 1990, they used their 148hp M50B20 inline six unit. This engine was used until BMW introduced their M50B20TU for 1993, which was the featured variable valve timing, and an improved powerband. Both manual and automatic transmissions were offered for this series of rear wheel drive cars, as well as sedan or touring wagon body styles. Production of the E34 520i ended in 1996, but the 520i would continue life in the next generation of 5 Series, as the E39 520i.