M5 E39

The BMW M5 E39 (produced from 1998 to 2003) is widely considered one of the greatest performance sedans ever built. It pairs an aggressive yet understated design with a 400-horsepower, naturally aspirated V8 engine and a purist 6-speed manual transmission.

While sharing the same basic silhouette as the standard E39 5 Series, the M5 differs extensively from regular models in performance, mechanics, and subtle styling cues.

Core Specifications

• Engine: 4.9-liter naturally aspirated V8 (S62)
• Horsepower: 400 hp @ 6,600 rpm
• Torque: 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) @ 3,800 rpm
• Drivetrain: 6-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and a limited-slip differential (LSD)
• 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds

Key Differences from Base E39 Models

1. Powertrain & Performance

• Engine: Standard E39 models maxed out with the V8-powered 540i (282 hp). The M5 utilizes a heavily upgraded S62 V8 featuring double-VANOS (variable valve timing) and individual throttle bodies for instant throttle response.
• Transmission & Drivetrain: Unlike standard models which offered automatic options, the M5 was strictly a 6-speed manual. It also includes a mechanically locking rear differential for better traction and dynamic cornering.

2. Handling & Suspension

• Chassis Upgrades: While standard E39s were praised for their aluminum suspension, the M5 featured stiffer, tuned springs, thicker anti-roll bars, and a lowered ride height for reduced body roll.
• Steering: The M5 features a sport-tuned, Servotronic steering system that tightens the steering ratio compared to standard E39s.

3. Exterior Styling

• Exhaust: The M5 features the distinct, instantly recognizable quad-exhaust (four tailpipe) setup, which was exclusive to this model.
• Bumpers: It includes aerodynamic front and rear bumpers similar to the optional M-Sport package, but the M5 features a unique mesh air-inlet grid on the front.
• Mirrors: The M5 is equipped with signature M-style aerodynamic side-view mirrors.
• Wheels: It came standard with staggered 18-inch M-Parallel alloy wheels.

4. Interior Amenities

• Seating & Trim: The M5 featured deeply bolstered sport seats wrapped in premium extended Nappa leather, along with a thicker M-badged steering wheel and specific M-design gauges (including the classic oil temperature warning segment around the tachometer).