The BMW 5 Series E39 is widely considered by purists and experts as the pinnacle of the 5 Series, combining exceptional build quality, timeless design (by Joji Nagashima), and benchmark road handling. Launched in 1995 and facelifted (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in September 2000, it introduced aluminum running gear and advanced onboard electronics for its time. Although this report focuses on diesel engines (which made the model a success in Europe with the introduction of the legendary M57 6-cylinder), the E39 also excelled with its naturally aspirated petrol engines. Today, it is a collector's vehicle (youngtimer) or a robust 'daily', provided it receives rigorous maintenance. The mechanical reliability of the blocks is excellent, but peripherals (cooling, running gear, electronics) show t
The BMW 5 Series E39 is a masterpiece of 90s engineering, but today it requires enthusiast maintenance. In diesel, the 530d with a manual gearbox is the Holy Grail: modern performance, reasonable consumption, and an indestructible M57 block (once the swirl flaps are removed). The 525d is an excellent alternative, often less abused. You should AVOID the 520d (VP44 pump too temperamental) and be wary of 530d models with automatic gearboxes, as the GM transmission is a ticking time bomb if it hasn't been meticulously serviced. Plan a budget to overhaul the cooling system and running gear, and you'll have one of the best sedans ever built.