BMW Celebrating 5-Series' 30th Anniversary... in Japan?

It's hard to believe that it's been three decades since the BMW 5-series sedan was debuted to the world, and it's even harder still to believe that it continues to be considered by many to be the benchmark by which all others are measured. But, believe it or not, that's precisely the case. 

So, to celebrate this very special occasion, BMW has opted to release a rare-for-the-brand special edition of the current 5-series... and it isn't exactly what you'd expect. First off, the 30th Anniversary Edition will actually be underpinned by the entry level 528i model, not the fire-breathing 550i or M5. And second of all, this entry level-esque 528i 30th Anniversary Edition won't be available to anyone living outside of Japan. Building just 200 examples, the M-Sport aero package-equipped 528i's will be well equipped inside, with 16-speaker stereos, satin walnut trim, beige leather, tinted glass, aluminum window surrounds, and BMW's excellent heads up display all bundled together as standard equipment. Obviously a bit more of a sales gimmick than a legitimate homage, we can only hope that BMW plans something more auspicious for the car's 50th.