BMW 5 Series: E34 vs E39 vs E60 Compared
Three Generations of an Icon
Few model lines define BMW’s executive class quite like the 5 Series. Between the late 1980s and 2010 it underwent a dramatic transformation: from a boxy, analog driver’s car into a technology-laden grand tourer. Three generations tell that story especially well - the BMW E34 5 Series, the legendary BMW E39 5 Series, and the polarising BMW E60 5 Series.
Our latest market data from July 2, 2026 reveals a surprising picture: the oldest 5 Series is actually the most expensive, while the E39 - widely praised as the best 5 Series ever - is the cheapest of the trio. Here we explain why, and which generation suits which type of buyer.
Price Comparison: Current Market
| Model | Years | Avg price | Range | Avg mileage | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW E34 | 1988-1996 | €9,525 | €2,450 - €35,450 | 204,945 km | 59 |
| BMW E39 | 1995-2004 | €7,173 | €1,100 - €24,990 | 214,978 km | 84 |
| BMW E60 | 2003-2010 | €8,806 | €2,490 - €23,499 | 186,566 km | 69 |
The order is striking: the E34 is the dearest at €9,525 - despite being the oldest. The E39 is the cheapest at €7,173, yet offers the widest choice with 84 listings and the highest average mileage at 214,978 km. The E60 sits in the middle and is the only one with a rising trend, plus the lowest mileage. Three very different market phases sit behind these figures.
The BMW E34: The Rising Classic
Built from 1988 to 1996, the E34 is the last “boxy” 5 Series - analog, over-engineered, and robust. It is precisely these old-school qualities that make it a rising classic today. That it commands the highest average at €9,525 despite its age reflects its growing collector status.
Strengths today:
- The last analog 5 Series, with timeless boxy styling
- Over-built mechanicals, proverbially long-lived
- Highest average of the three - a sign of classic status
- Broad engine choice, from straight-sixes to V8s
Things to watch:
- Rust at wheel arches and jacking points
- M50/M60 engines: keep an eye on cooling and timing upkeep
- Highest average mileage, well over 200,000 km
The trend is slightly softening - buy now for substance rather than for a bargain.
The BMW E39: The Enthusiast’s Bargain
Built from 1995 to 2004, the E39 is regarded by many as the best 5 Series ever: the perfect balance of analog feel and modern refinement. All the more surprising, then, that at just €7,173 it is the cheapest of our trio. The reason lies in sheer production numbers - the E39 was built and driven hard, which also explains its highest average mileage of 214,978 km.
Strengths today:
- Widely rated the best 5 Series - analog precision plus comfort
- Cheapest entry at €7,173 on average
- The widest choice with 84 listings
- A huge community, plenty of know-how and parts availability
Things to watch:
- Rust on early cars
- Ageing cooling-system plastics
- High mileage - check service history; on V8s watch Vanos and timing
For enthusiasts, the E39 is the sweet spot: best reputation, lowest price. A well-kept example is the smartest choice.
The BMW E60: The Tech Pick
Built from 2003, the E60 marks the Chris Bangle era: controversial styling that is slowly winning acceptance, plus iDrive, the first Active Steering, and an aluminium front structure. At €8,806 it sits in the middle, yet it is the only one with a rising trend and, at 186,566 km, the lowest average mileage.
Strengths today:
- The most modern tech: iDrive, Active Steering, aluminium front end
- The only one with a rising trend
- Lowest average mileage of the three
- The cheapest way into a modern-feeling 5 Series
Things to watch:
- Complex electronics and first-generation iDrive
- Early engines with a few known weaknesses
- Active Steering and suspension can mean costly repairs
As an emerging modern classic, the E60 is the most intriguing bet on future appreciation.
Which Generation for Which Buyer?
The classic enthusiast
Recommendation: BMW E34
If you want the last analog 5 Series, there is no way around the E34. It is the priciest, but also the one with the clearest classic status. Go for a rust-checked example with documented history.
The pragmatic enthusiast
Recommendation: BMW E39
Best reputation, lowest price - the E39 is the connoisseur’s bargain. The market starts from €1,100, but we recommend a well-kept car with a full service history in the mid price range.
The tech and value speculator
Recommendation: BMW E60
If you want modern tech and future appreciation, choose the E60. It is the only one with a rising trend and has the lowest mileage - the cheapest route into a modern-feeling car.
The Maintenance Question
For all three, the same rule applies: the purchase price is only half the story. Condition and history decide the rest.
- On the E34, rust and an intact cooling system are the key checkpoints.
- On the E39, service history separates the wheat from the chaff - scrutinise high-mileage cars.
- On the E60, electronics, Active Steering, and suspension are the cost risks.
- A pre-purchase inspection (€150-300) is money well spent on any used car.
Our Verdict
The three 5 Series generations serve three types of buyer:
- Buy the E34 if you want the last analog 5 Series as a classic.
- Buy the E39 if you want the best all-rounder at the lowest price - the enthusiast’s bargain.
- Buy the E60 if you prefer modern tech and the strongest upward momentum.
With 212 listings in our data set, choice is plentiful. Which generation is right depends less on your budget than on your expectations: classic, sensible bargain, or tech bet.
Our closing tip: Test-drive all three. Only behind the wheel will you feel how the 5 Series transformed over two decades.
For detailed pricing and further variants, see our model pages: