← BMW M5 · 1998-2003 · E39

BMW M5 E39

Headline trim: M5 5.0 V8 — 394 bhp, 0-62 in 4.8s.

press photo
Verdict
A
BHP
394 bhp
0–60
4.8 s
Top speed
155 mph
MPG
17 mpg (US)
Used
$23,000-$53,000

Strengths

  • S62 V8 NA — undisputed classic
  • Saloon only — sleeper
  • 6-speed manual only

Weaknesses

  • Heavy thirst
  • VANOS rattle
  • Run-flat tyres late-life

Notable tech

  • E39 platform
  • S62 5.0 V8 NA — 394 bhp
  • Saloon only
  • 6-speed manual only
  • RWD

Common issues

  • VANOS rattle
  • Heavy thirst
  • Cooling system plastic

Engine derivatives

US-spec trims and engines offered across E39's life. Click any two rows to compare them side-by-side.

Pick two engines to compare
M5 5.0 V8 (S62)
BHP394
Torque500 Nm
0–604.8 s
Top155 mph
MPG (US)17 mpg
DriveRWD
Gearbox6MT