BMW M5 E39 Generation: The Ultimate Performance Icon
Since its debut in the late 1980s, the BMW M5 E39 generation has set the benchmark for sport sedans, blending precision engineering with uncompromising power. This era redefined driving dynamics and remains a benchmark for luxury performance.
The M5 E39: A Legacy of Performance
Launched in 1987 and produced through 1993, the E39 M5 introduced an 3.5-liter inline-six engine producing 286 horsepower, paired with a five-speed manual and advanced rear-wheel drive dynamics. Its lightweight chassis, independent suspension tuning, and sharp handling made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts, establishing a blueprint for future M5 models.
Engine Power and Engineering Excellence
The E39’s 3.5-liter S38B35 inline-six delivered a perfect balance of low-end torque and high-revving responsiveness, enhanced by a synchronized four-valve head and VANOS variable valve timing. This engineering prowess enabled 0-60 mph times under five seconds and a top speed near 160 mph, cementing its status as a performance legend.
Design and Driving Experience
With its aggressive front fascia, wide rear tracks, and iconic running lights, the E39 M5 exuded sporty dominance. The interior combined luxurious materials with an intuitive cockpit, offering precise steering feedback and a driver-first layout that elevated the daily driving experience beyond mere speed.
The BMW M5 E39 generation remains a timeless icon, revered for its fusion of raw performance and refined engineering. For collectors and drivers alike, it symbolizes the golden age of performance sedans—proof that true excellence endures. Discover the essence of the M5 E39 today and experience why this generation continues to inspire.
The BMW E39 is the fourth generation of the BMW 5 Series range of executive cars, which was manufactured from 1995 to 2004. It was launched in the saloon body style, with the station wagon body style (marketed as "Touring") introduced in 1996. The BMW E39 M5 stands as the definitive expression of the high-performance sedan, combining supercar power with family practicality in a package that many consider BMW's finest achievement.
The BMW M5 E39 from 1998. When it was launched in 1998, the BMW M5 E39 set a completely new benchmark for BMW M. It was the first time that a V8 engine with a displacement of five litres had been used, which generated 294 kW (400 hp) and a tremendous torque of 500 Newton metres.
This made the E39 the most powerful M automobile in the model range. Development of the E39-generation M5 kicked off in earnest in 1993, and faced with outfitting its new super-saloon with a turbocharged straight-six or V8, BMW was strongly considering bolting in. The E39 generation of the BMW M5 is well-known today for its powerful V8 engine and manual transmission, but it almost wasn't so cool.
The E39-generation BMW M5 is widely regarded as one of the greatest performance sedans ever built. Produced at the turn of the millennium, it combined luxury, naturally aspirated V8 power, and everyday usability in a way that few cars have matched since. Looking to buy a BMW E39 5 Series in 2025? We break down its pros, cons, reliability, and pricing.
The presentation of the sports sedan took place in 1998. Here is a photo of this BMW M5 E39. It took place at the auto show in Geneva.
The third generation of sports cars was presented with only one body. The design of the M5 E39 has rounded off and its body is more powerful. This car the Germans began assembling on the assembly line of the factory located in Dingolfing, replacing the old 1997.
As the M division began planning the E34 M5's successor in 1993, it was clear that a new engine concept would be required for the E39 M5. "We had two opportunities: a V8 or a turbocharged six-cylinder," said Alex Hildebrandt, the E39 M5 Project Leader and Head of Product Management for the M division then led by Karlheinz Kalbfell. The BMW M5 (E39) was the successor to the M5 (E34).
Series production was launched in Dingolfing in October 1998. In contrast to its predecessor, the M5 (E39) was manufactured in entirety on the same line as the standard version of the BMW 5 Series (E39), which entailed higher numbers but also greater standardisation. All markets received the same 5.0 litre V8 engine (S62B50) with differences.