Model History

The BMW E39 is the fourth generation of BMW 5-Series, which was sold from 1995 to 2004. It was launched as a saloon with the estate (Touring) introduced in 1996. The E39 was replaced by the E60 in 2003, however E39 Touring models remained in production until 2004.

The E39 was the first 5-Series to use aluminium components in the front suspension. The proportion of chassis components using aluminium significantly increased for the E39 in order to reduce weight. It was also the first 5-Series where a four-cylinder diesel engine was available. Unlike its E34 predecessor and E60 successor, the E39 was not available with all-wheel drive.

At launch, the petrol engines consisted of the M52 straight six and M62 V8, which were both new engines at the time. In 1998, the "technical update" versions of these engines were introduced, which introduced double VANOS to increase torque at low rpm. At the 2000 facelift, the M52 straight-six engine was replaced by its successor the M54.

Both the saloon and the Touring offered even more space within the passenger compartment over the previous generation E34. Boasting features such as a multifunction steering wheel, navigation system, active seats, and Dynamic Stability Control, the BMW 5-Series was acknowledged as a particularly outstanding high-tech representative of its segment.

In the interest of enhanced driving dynamics and safety, the body came with a significant increase in torsional stiffness over the former model, and E39 was the first large-scale production car worldwide made almost completely of light alloy. The newly developed all-aluminium engines also helped to significantly reduce the weight of the car. The aerodynamic design of the E39 resulted in a drag coefficient of 0.28.

Equipment

Topaz Blue Metallic paintwork, Anthracite Alcantara/cloth upholstery, 5-Speed Steptronic transmission, M Sport package, M Sport suspension, M Aerodynamics package, Multifunction M leather steering wheel, Electrically-adjustable front sports seats with memory, Shadowline exterior trim, Electric folding door mirrors, Cruise control, Front central armrest, Aluminium interior trim, On-board computer (OBC), Automatic air conditioning, Xenon headlamps, Front fog lights, BMW overmats, Spare key.

Exterior

Factory M Sport suspension, M Sport body styling, and 17-inch alloy wheels ensure this E39 sits with a commanding presence. The attractive Topaz Blue paintwork presents in exceptional condition with hardly a blemish in sight. There are no scuffs or scrapes to the bumpers and along both sides the car is arrow-straight. We have inspected the paint with a micrometer and quite remarkably it’s original all round with a deep glossy shine across every panel. Better still, having resided on the salt-free roads of Japan since new, the car is 100% free from corrosion, including to the underside which is also the cleanest we've seen of any E39.

VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Interior

The anthracite sports seats have worn remarkably well, with no signs of heavy use to the delicate Alcantara bolsters. The dark fabric is perfectly offset by unmarked aluminum inlays throughout the interior - a welcome choice over the commonly specified walnut veneer. The headlining is also anthracite and maintains an intimate atmosphere within the cabin. Finer details such as the gear selector and steering wheel are immaculately presented with perfect factory textures to the leather. The dash, centre console, and switchgear are also free from any marking. In the footwells the carpets are spotless, having been protected from new by the original BMW overmats. A very smart and highly original interior looking every bit the low mileage.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Barely run-in with a remarkable 17k miles from new the 2.5-litre M54 straight-six starts first turn of the key and idles smoothly up to temperature. The engine bay retains a fresh appearance with no signs of any damage, corrosion, or previous poor repair. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a smooth five-speed automatic transmission. Unlike many imported vehicles this one is accompanied by a full service history with entries in the original maintenance booklet at the following mileages: 3,718 – 4,697 – 5,681 – 6,923 – 7,455 – 7,747 – 11,775 – 16,060 – 16,427 – and most recently at 17,033 miles in June this year. The MOT is valid until July 2024.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The original 17-inch M double-spoke alloys present in excellent original condition with no unsightly kerb marking to report. They are shod in brand new Nexen tyres all round, just fitted at the current mileage. The brakes have also recently been checked and remain in fine operational condition, effortlessly pulling the car to a halt quickly and in a straight line.

History File

This immaculate E39 M Sport was first registered in Japan in September 2001. Having only recently landed in the UK (with all taxes and duties paid on arrival) the car remains in excellent rust-free condition throughout, especially to the underside. Within the accompanying History File you'll find the original BMW document wallet, owner's manuals, and a spare remote key. The super low mileage of only 17,048 miles (27,436km) is well documented by a complete service history in the original maintenance booklet. For the new keeper’s peace of mind a fresh service with all new tyres was completed on arrival in June 2023. Fully UK registered with all taxes paid on arrival.

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