With the 5 Series now well-established from the previous successful generation 5-Series, the E39 is BMW’s fourth generation. Launched in 1995, the E39 has a much stiffer chassis, improved steering, sleeker body, and fantastic S62 V8 engine; the new super saloon is a superb machine.
This lovely example has just 85,799 miles and has been with the vendor for the past ten years. From looking at the paperwork, it appears to have been well-maintained throughout its life and is in excellent condition.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
V5 is present
Registered 26th January 2001
Owners handbooks present
Original tool kit
Service book present
Two keys
MOT valid until 15th December 2023
Excellent history
Good selection of invoices for work carried out mainly at BMW dealers or specialists
Ten-year ownership
THE INTERIOR
Well presented interior
DSF Sound system
Electric rear sunblind
Inside the M5 is just like stepping back to 2001, and what a great place it is to be. The electric and heated black and grey leather seats are in excellent condition with just a minor amount of colour wear to the driver's bolster, which could easily be recoloured. The rear seat is free from excessive creasing and is reported as having only been used a couple of times during the vendor’s ten-year ownership, and the door cards are free from any scuffs or damage.
The dashboard is free from damage, and the instruments are working correctly, with no warning lights displayed when the car is running. The odometer shows just 85,799 miles which tallies with the M5’s MOT and service history. The switchgear looks in good order, with no signs of excessive wear to the buttons. Everything appears to be working correctly apart from one of the rear windows, and the air conditioning isn’t blowing cold, which could possibly just need a re-gas, but we cannot confirm this. The M5 has a DSF HiFi upgrade that works as it should for your entertainment.
The carpets are in excellent condition, and a set of all-weather mats to help protect them are also in good order. Inside the boot, the carpet is clean and tidy; there is the compressor and the boot-mounted tool kit, which is all present and correct.
THE EXTERIOR
Finished in Silverstone Metallic
BMW Dealer refurbished wheels
Lovely colour combination
Finished in the original colour of Silvertone Metallic, the M5 presents really well. The bonnet has been repainted whilst in the vendor’s ownership to remove some age-related stone chips. Unfortunately, there is a small patch of paint just behind the rear passenger wheel, which has come off, and this was caused by a jet wash.
Looking around the car, the panel gaps are equal and matching, and there are no dings or dents to mention. The xenon headlights have a small amount of age-related discolouration, which could be reduced with a machine polish, and the rear lights are free from any damage.
The windows are in good condition with no noticeable scratches, and the seals are also in good order with no signs of shrinkage or perishing.
Fitted with the original wheels, these are in excellent condition, having been refurbished by the vendor’s local BMW dealer. The tyres all match, with a good amount of tread remaining.
THE MECHANICS
5.0 litre V8
Six-speed manual gearbox
New clutch at 75,830 miles Fitted by Darren Wood BMW
The car is fitted with BMW’s all-new S62 engine, which was M’s first V8. The M5 produces around 394 bhp and 369lb-ft of torque, then is driven through a six-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels.
The car starts up as it should without hesitation, and no untoward noises are coming from the engine bay, which is also very well presented. The vendor reports the M5 to drive as it should with a smooth gear change, and the car pulls like a train through each gear. There was also a new clutch fitted approximately 10,000 miles ago.
No knocks or bangs are reported to come from the suspension, and when looking at the underside, everything appears to be in good order.
The discs and pads look to be in good condition, with no noticeable lip to the edges of the discs and are reported to bring the M5 to a halt in a straight line.
SUMMARY
Looking at the super saloons which were available in 2001, the BMW M5 has to be one of the top contenders for anyone looking for that style of car from that era.
This is a fine example of one of the ultimate super saloons from BMW. Fitted with the fabulous S62 5.0 litre V8, the M5 delivers usable power, excellent torque and superb handling; whilst the inside is spacious and luxurious, it’s easy to see why the E39 M5 is a desirable super saloon.
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.*
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