The first generation of the BMW 5-Series was launched in 1972. It represented the natural evolution of the “Neue Classe” introduced by the German car-maker in 1961. The design of the 5-Series was signed by Paul Braq, following the line cues given by Michelotti and Hoffmeister, the designers of the BMW 1500 “New class sedan”. The bold new design was previewed in 1970 in the BMW 2002ti Garmisch concept-car. One year before the launch, the German motoring press spied a mule version of the 5-Series and claimed that it resembled the Fiat 132 model. A year later, the series model proved that the car was much different than the Italian car. The twin-round headlights and the chromed elements on the bodywork were stylish. The sloped trunk line completed the aerodynamic look of the car. Inside, the 5-Series offered a spacious interior, with enough room for five adult passengers according to those times standards. The first models were fitted with only a few comfort features. Some models were available with a 3-speed automatic transmission and power windows were installed later on the model. Under the hood, the initial models were offered with an inline-four engine. Later on, the engine lineup was completed with inline-six engines, with carburetors or mechanical injection. The most potent version was the M535i that was introduced in 1980 with a 5-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential.