In Europe, the BMW 5 Series E12 was entered by private teams in circuit racing and rallies. The versions chosen were the 520i, 525, 528i and M535i. In France the 530i was used a lot, especially in the production championship from 1977 to 1980. The US version of the 530i was used as a base, with its 240 horsepower 3-liter engine. These cars allowed for a less traumatic transition between the old 3.0 CSL Group 2 and the future 635CSi. The 530i were also used in international competitions such as the 24 Hours of Spa, won in 1977.