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BMW M5

E39 · The benchmark V81998–2003

The original super-sedan — V8, V10, and back to V8 hybrid.

7 reviewers · 25 videos · 7 press articles

Generations
E391998–2003E602005–2010F102011–2016F902018–2023G902025–present
// 00 the verdict

Reviewers strongly agree on its performance and handling.

across 7 reviewers

// the categories
// 01

Performance

4.5/57 of 7 reviewersstrong consensus

This powertrain, this V8 pulls like crazy.

positive · TheTopher · ▶ 5:31

This 5 L V8 is such a gem of an engine... it's so well matched to this chassis.

positive · Zygrene · ▶ 7:03

7,000 RPM Red Line dude this thing hauls some serious booty even today

positive · Jubbal & Cars · ▶ 6:40
// 02

Handling

4.0/57 of 7 reviewersconsensus

These Ground Control coilovers are doing a really really excellent job at making this feel like an o plus build... you get a level of body control that the stock suspension doesn't quite match.

positive · Zygrene · ▶ 10:00

Handling, chassis all feel very modern and well calibrated.

positive · TheTopher · ▶ 18:32

I like what he's done with the coilovers because the car definitely feels sharper than the stock example I just drove yet it's compliant enough to still be comfortable

positive · Jubbal & Cars · ▶ 8:08
// 03

Fun to drive

5.0/57 of 7 reviewersstrong consensus

What a joy to drive... this still very much feels analog.

positive · Zygrene · ▶ 12:10

I think this is one of their best manual driving experiences.

positive · TheTopher · ▶ 27:26

On the road the E39 is spectacular.

positive · CAR magazine · ▶ 3:36
// 04

Daily drivability

4.5/57 of 7 reviewersstrong consensus

it's the ultimate highway Cruiser the naturally aspirated v8 is just it's just like butter

positive · Savagegeese · ▶ 31:57

Even without modern luxuries like adaptive suspension the E39 rides pliantly and the wind and road noise from outside is almost non-existent.

positive · CAR magazine · ▶ 3:49

It's smooth, it's quiet, it's comfortable.

positive · TheTopher · ▶ 18:23
// 05

Value

4.5/57 of 7 reviewersstrong consensus

at the $20,000 to $25,000 price range if you can find an ultra clean one like this just do it

positive · Savagegeese · ▶ 33:18

It really is a testament to how well these cars hold up if you take good care of them.

positive · Zygrene · ▶ 15:25

If you're shopping one, factor in a little bit of maintenance expenses, but gosh, it's worth it.

positive · TheTopher · ▶ 31:52

Hear it in the reviewer’s words

TheTopher
Posted Oct 26, 2025Open on YouTube
Moments worth your time
Jubbal & Cars
Posted Sep 22, 2024Open on YouTube
Moments worth your time
Zygrene
Posted Apr 7, 2024Open on YouTube
Moments worth your time
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From the press · 7 articles