BMW E39 M5: The Legend Among Sport Sedans
The Benchmark of All Sport Sedans
The BMW E39 M5 (1998-2003) is considered by many as the perfect synthesis of daily usability and high performance. A look at the numbers and current market.
Technical Highlights
The Legendary S62 Engine
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,941 cc |
| Power | 400 hp at 6,600 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm at 3,800 rpm |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (limited) |
The S62 is the last naturally aspirated V8 in an M5. This engine – with individual throttle bodies per cylinder – is considered a technical masterpiece.
Current Market Situation
Price Development
Our data shows a clear upward trend:
- Average price: €34,989
- Minimum: €18,000
- Maximum: €65,000
- Trend: rising (+8% per year)
Price Factors
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Under 100,000 km | +20-30% |
| Full service history | +15-25% |
| Original condition | +10-20% |
| Rare colors (Individual) | +5-15% |
| 6-speed manual | Standard |
Why Prices Are Rising
1. “Peak M5” Status
Many enthusiasts consider the E39 as the pinnacle of M5 development:
- Last naturally aspirated engine (S62)
- Still relatively analog driving experience
- Perfect weight distribution 50:50
- Hydraulic power steering
2. Limited Production
BMW produced only about 20,000 E39 M5s worldwide. In comparison:
- E60 M5: ~25,000
- F10 M5: >30,000
3. Film Prominence
The E39 M5 appeared in numerous films and series, reinforcing its cult status.
Buying Guide
Known Weaknesses
Engine:
- Vanos units (4 of them!) can wear out
- Oil pump drive gears (pre-09/1999)
- Throttle body actuators
Suspension:
- Rear subframe mounts (rust!)
- Control arms and bushings
- Self-leveling rear suspension
Body:
- Check sills and wheel arches for rust
- Trunk lid seal
- Door bottom edge seams
What to Look For When Buying
- Service history: Complete BMW history is worth gold
- Compression test: For vehicles over 150,000 km
- Read fault codes: With BMW-specific diagnostic tool
- Test drive: At least 30 minutes, warm and cold
Investment Potential
Comparison with Other Classics
| Model | Avg Price 2023 | Avg Price 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW E39 M5 | €29,500 | €34,989 | +19% |
| Mercedes W210 E55 AMG | €22,000 | €26,500 | +20% |
| Audi RS4 B5 | €38,000 | €45,678 | +20% |
The E39 M5 is developing parallel to other performance classics of the era.
Forecast
We expect:
- Short-term (1-2 years): Further 5-10% increase
- Medium-term (5 years): Approach to €50,000 average
- Long-term: Establishment as collector vehicle
Model Alternatives
For smaller budgets:
- BMW E39 540i: Same platform, V8 experience for ~€8,000
- BMW E46 330i: M54 inline-six, sporty
For collectors:
- BMW E34 M5: Predecessor, also on the rise
- Audi RS4 B5: Quattro alternative with biturbo
Conclusion
The E39 M5 is more than a used car – it’s a piece of automotive history. Current prices are still attainable, but the entry barrier is continuously rising.
Those considering a purchase should focus on quality over price. A well-maintained example with complete history is worth its money today – and will be worth even more tomorrow.
Price data from our current market analysis. Details on the E39 M5 model page.