2002 BMW 540I Auto (E39)

Highlights

  • High specification from new
  • Outrageously clean with no signs of rust or corrosion
  • Low owner and mileage for the age
  • Immaculate Alpine White paintwork

The Appeal

BMW's 5 series has arguably been the standard for useable executive saloons since its initial release in 1972. The fourth generation gave us the E39 variant, one that received high praise for its clean styling and transition utilising more modern materials, such as aluminium for major components like the front and rear suspension assemblies. 

Aimed at the executive market sector, the 540I boasts ample amounts of space within for the passengers to enjoy while admiring the 4.4L V8 working effortlessly to push you along the road. The M62TUB44 V8 (denoting technical update) was the biggest engine BMW offered in the E39 standard 5 series model range. 

Not only does the E39 540I look the part but it offers impressive performance should you ever need, with 0-60mph only taking a claimed 6.4 seconds!

The History and Paperwork

  • MOT until 19/12/2023
  • First registered 01/06/2002
  • Imported from Japan and first registered in the UK 01/01/2018
  • Selling as surplus to requirements
  • Genuine 29,159 miles
  • Full service history, part main dealer (Japan) and part independent
  • Last serviced 11/2021
  • Current owner is an enthusiast and this is shown in the condition of the vehicle
  • Service book stamped up until 2021 / 28,286 miles
  • Owner’s manual present, in very good condition and included with car
  • Both Japanese and English service books included and both stamped
  • Only 3000 miles covered in the last 3 years
  • Kept garaged when not in use
  • Graded at 4B when sold in Japan (2018), a very high grade (6S is the highest, considered brand new)
  • 2 new keys included with the sale
  • Owner informs the front bumper was replaced some years ago due to a crack
  • High specification from new



The Interior

  • Beige Dakota leather interior in excellent condition overall
  • All seats in very good condition absent of rips and tears, some minimal signs of wear only noticeable when inspecting closely
  • Wood trim in excellent condition throughout
  • Carpets and floor mats in very good condition
  • Tastefully upgraded stereo head unit and aerial to receive UK radio stations, blue tooth / car play ready etc
  • Upgraded audio system
  • Electronic sunroof as standard from new
  • Electronically adjustable and heated front seats with memory setting
  • Electronic rear sun blind and privacy glass for rear windows
  • Boot in excellent condition with spare wheel and jack present
  • Headlining present with some light marking on the sun roof lining and a small area starting to sag by the passenger sun visor

The Exterior 

  • Immaculate Alpine White paintwork overall with minimal chips considering the age and mileage
  • Nexen tyres on the rear with very good tread and Michelin on the front with good tread 
  • Gorgeous, original split 17' BBS alloys in very good to excellent condition
  • A small scuff on the passenger wing mirror, both wing mirrors are electronically foldable as standard
  • Rubber gasket for top of the headlights are perished but brand new OEM units are included with the car
  • Chrome trim in excellent condition throughout
  • Badges, brightwork and glass in excellent condition
  • Square format Japanese plates fitted but with UK registration number, keeping the original aesthetic and functionality
  • External aerial fitted to top of windscreen relating to upgraded head unit, in very good condition
  • Xenon headlights and washer jets for headlights as standard
  • Auto light and wiper sensors as standard



The Mechanics

  • Rear underside in pristine condition; as a Japanese import the car benefits from being completely rust and corrosion free
  • Smooth 4.4L M62TUB44 V8 engine gives for ample power while remaining very quiet
  • Desirable EDC (electronic damper control) as standard from new
  • Current owner has carried out regular servicing and maintenance regardless of mileage and cost
  • ZF gearbox was serviced during current ownership
  • Engine bay and underside in a very clean and tidy condition
  • Current owner reports there is a slight oil leak from the rocker cover gaskets, a very common issue on this model
  • All service paperwork from Japan (main dealer) included with car
  • Current owner reports that the car drives and stops as expected, well and in a straight line
  • No knocking, banging or smoke from the engine when running
  • Odometer reading and service paperwork from Japan was originally in KM but has been converted to miles since import to the UK
  • Sound proofing on underside of bonnet all present and intact, free from any rips



Summary

As E39 540I's go, this is an excellent example. Having been imported from Japan in 2018 it has clearly been looked after without compromise in both Japan and the UK. 

The current owner is an enthusiast who has given this 540I the best care possible, regardless of cost. When inspecting the car throughout you could be mistaken of its age and mileage, it genuinely is stunning. Boasting a high specification from new, the current owner has honoured this glorious BMW by keeping it in top condition. 

Covering on average under 1500 miles a year since its creation, this 540I has been run in and is raring to cover many more miles. Considering the overall condition, specification and highly original state, this BMW 540I is really not worth missing out on!  

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 2002
  • Make BMW
  • Model 540I (E39)
  • Colour White
  • Odometer 29,159 Miles
  • Engine size 4398
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town St. Albans
  • Location Hertfordshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
15 bids from 5 bidders
  • hu•••• £8,500 29/03/23
  • Cr•••• £8,400 29/03/23
  • Cr•••• £8,300 29/03/23
  • hu•••• £8,200 29/03/23
  • Cr•••• £8,100 25/03/23
  • Wi•••• £8,000 25/03/23
  • Wi•••• £7,900 25/03/23
  • Cr•••• £7,800 25/03/23
  • Wi•••• £7,700 25/03/23
  • Cr•••• £7,600 25/03/23
Message C&C Auction Team

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