4 Star Classics

A gleaming well maintained Avus blue M5 with full black nappa leather.

MODEL HISTORY

By the time the E39 M5 arrived the M5 genre had already been well and truly established by its E28 and E34 forefathers - each generation established and pushed the bar higher as the ultimate super saloon. The E39 had a tough act to follow but dubbed by the press as the 'Best car in the world' it wasn't surprising that it lived up to the expectations.

BMW took time perfecting this new machine and it was not unveiled at the Motor Show until 1998 with full scale production started later that year. The car was manufactured at Dingolfing on the main 5 series production line which allowed the car to be made in much larger numbers - 7895 LHD European spec cars, 9992 LHD US spec and 2595 RHD examples were produced for the UK market.

The previous M5's both came in straight six format but BMW broke the mold with the E39 and the first V8 powered M car was born with a stonking 400bhp at 6600rpm. It was based on the M62 unit from the 540i and was named the S62 and extensively revised for its M application.

Capacity was increased to 4941cc, compression was upped to 11.0:1 and electronically controlled throttle bodies were fitted to each cylinder. There was also a double Vanos variable valve timing system on both the intake and exhaust cams, modified cylinder heads, oil-cooled pistons, a coolant to oil heat exchanger, hollow camshafts, a dual air induction system and a high capacity water pump. The M5 engine now packed a hefty punch of power but its main trump card was its flexibility - a decent 369lb ft of torque was available all the way from 3800-5000rpm.

The V8 was mated to a Getrag Type D six-speed gearbox with a 25% limited slip differential. Handling was improved with with shorter rated springs, upgraded shock absorbers and thicker anti-roll bars front and rear as well as steel ball joints in the place of rubber rear suspension bushes. The steering ratio was reduced and Servotronic assistance meant the steering became heavier as the speed increased. The M driving Dynamics (sport) button also made the steering heavier and significantly sharpened the throttle response.

As with all M5's some external changes were made but in a subtle and understated way. There were a set of tasty 18" chrome shadow alloys, slightly larger kidney grills, new front and rear bumpers, 4 polished exhaust tail pipes, bespoke electric folding mirrors, some M badges on the side trims and to finish the package a subtle body coloured boot-lip spoiler.

The car was a hefty £60,000 new which could easily be increased to £70,000 if you ticked all the option boxes! Despite the high price the car got lashings of praise from the motoring press with particular attention to the engine and handling. BMW had done it again creating the ultimate sports saloon.

Equipment

Multi-function steering wheel, Electric mirrors, Electric windows, Heated/electric seats, Central locking, Electric sunroof, Central locking, Automatic air condition, M5 number plate, Adjustable steering wheel, Tool set, Parking distance control, Cassette and 6 disc changer CE player, Xenon headlights, On board computer.

EXTERIOR

This E39 is finished in Avus blue which is one of the best combinations with the black leather. The car has been owned by the same chap as the imaculatte E28 M5 we recently sold here: www.4starclassics.com/BMW-E28-M5-For-Sale-4/. Very particular over the finer details he has had most of the car repainted at our recommended bodyshop 355 Restorations to get rid of any chips or imperfections then went even further replacing the front headlights for new factory BMW replacment xenons. The car now looks absolutely stunning with a deep shine and gloss to the paint work. The only noticeable imperfection we can find is a small mark to the passenger door window frame.

INTERIOR

The black nappa leather M sports seats are in great condition with little wear, the dash and centre console retain a new look and the piano black trim is pristine and unmarked. All switches, knobs and the gearstick look unworn and feel solid to touch. The dark grey carpet and mats are all spotless and have no tears or wear and the roof lining is unmarked and clean. The steering wheel has been recovered in the expensive alcantara leather to give even more of a sports car feel and driving experience.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Having been owned by a BMW technician who currently runs his own specialist BMW service business the car runs perfectly and has been maintained to the highest standard.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The 18" alloy wheels have recently been refurbished at Lepsons and remain in pristine condition, they are all shod in matching continental sport contact tyres. The brakes are in good condition and work well pulling the car to a stop in a straight line. 

HISTORY FILE

This M5 was first registered in June 1999 and had its running in service done later that month. The car comes with its original service book that is stamped up with a complete history, 7 BMW dealer and 2 independent,  the last being done at 93,390 miles by the owner at www.walkersautotech.co.uk

The car also comes with all its old MOT certificates and all the service receipts detailing the work that has been carried out. The leather document holder is also present with all the owners manuals and guides.