What is the BMW E39: The Iconic 1980s M5 and M3 Legend

The BMW E39 stands as a legendary chapter in automotive history, celebrated for defining performance sports sedans in the 1980s and early 1990s—especially as the pinnacle of BMW’s M Division with the M5 and M3 models.

The BMW E39 series, produced from 1986 to 1999, represents the zenith of mid-engine-inspired sports car engineering within BMW’s lineup. Renowned for its balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engines, and precision handling, the E39 set new benchmarks for driver engagement and mechanical excellence. It is synonymous with the iconic BMW M5 and M3, combining luxury with motorsport-inspired performance.

At the heart of the E39’s legacy is its revolutionary chassis and powertrain design. The M5 featured a supercharged 3.5-liter inline-six delivering over 286 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, offering razor-sharp responsiveness. The M3, with its lightweight tuning, boasted a 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing up to 241 hp, making it a benchmark for sporty compact executives. The E39’s independent suspension, balanced weight distribution, and refined interior set it apart from contemporaries.

The BMW E39 has transcended generations, earning a cult following among enthusiasts for its blend of daily usability and track-ready capability. Its naturally aspirated engines, analog driving feel, and timeless styling continue to inspire modern tuners and collectors. As a result, E39 models—especially the M5 and M3—command premium prices and remain highly sought after in the classic car market.

The BMW E39 isn’t just a model—it’s a benchmark of driving purity and performance craftsmanship. Whether you're drawn to its M5’s commanding presence or the M3’s agile finesse, the E39 remains a timeless symbol of BMW’s engineering excellence. For collectors and performance lovers alike, owning an E39 is preserving a piece of automotive legend.

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. Looking to buy a BMW E39 5 Series in 2025? We break down its pros, cons, reliability, and pricing.

The BMW E39 5 Series, launched in 1995, was a technological powerhouse that blended modern aesthetics with cutting-edge innovations and advanced performance features. Its special features included a lightweight construction, lower drag coefficient, and a 4.9-liter DOHC V8 engine in the M5 variant, which delivered 302 horsepower. The model enjoyed significant technological and safety milestones.

The restyling of the BMW 5 Series IV E39 has eliminated many of the car's shortcomings, and the car has become a reliability leader in its class. But the sedan requires qualified service and quality parts/consumables. In 2003, the E39 rolled off the assembly line and was replaced by the E60.

Faults Now about the problems of the car. The BMW E39 is the fourth generation of BMW 5 Series, which was sold from 1995 to 2003. It was launched in the sedan body style, with the wagon/estate body style (marketed as Touring) introduced in 1996.

The BMW E39 has quite rightly taken its place among the true greats, not only in the German manufacturer's canon but also in the motoring collective as a whole. Revered as one of the last true analogue BMWs the E39 was engineered to perfection. Lacking the modern electronic accoutrements of later offerings the E39 remains a proper driver's car.

Front. The E39 BMW style name is the fourth generation of BMW's 5 Series. It was made from 1995 to 2004.

This model raised the bar for luxury sports sedans, combining unmatched performance, comfort, and technology. BMW 5 Series (E39) timeline 1995/1996 The new 5 Series is launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show, replacing the E34 which had been on sale since 1987. Buyers were offered a strong range of petrol and diesel engines, and the saloon was joined by the Touring estate in 1996.

1998 BMW launch the hot M5 with subtly aggressive looks and 400bhp. BMW E39 5 Series Specs Choose a BMW E39 5 Series version from the list below to get information about engine specs, horsepower, CO2 emissions, fuel consumption, dimensions, tires size, weight and many other facts. Notice also the plus sign to access the comparator tool where you can compare up to 3 cars at once side by side.

In this guide, we discuss the BMW E39 5-Series. Learn about E39 models, E39 performance, and E39 reliability.