1997-2003 BMW 5-Series (E39)

The new model entered the market with straight-six power units delivering maximum output from 150 to 193 hp. Technical innovations gave both the petrol and diesel engines even more power on further reduced fuel consumption. Two V8 engines were introduced once again in 1996, with the new BMW M5 entering the market in 1998 with the most powerful production engine built by BMW up to that time: this 294 kW/400 hp power unit came, among other highlights, with features such as oil supply controlled for centrifugal forces and electronically controlled individual throttle butterflies.

The European BMW range saw the 520, 523, 528, 530, 535, 540, 525tds, 530d and M5. All but the M5 (sedan only) are available as either touring (wagon) or sedan. The 520, 523 and 528 were powered by 150,170 and 190 hp versions of the BMW M52 engine, which is a gasoline inline-6 design. The 540i was powered by the 282 horsepower (210 kW) 4.4 L V8 seen in the E38 (7-Series) and the X5.

For the 2001 model year, BMW updated the E39 with newer, clear-lens headlights which first displayed the now-popular "angel eyes." (note: this technology is called "celis" by the OEM - Hella). Also, the rear lights were converted to being LED-based. Other options changed: for example, the 528i was replaced by the 530i which had a new 225 horsepower (168 kW) 3.0 L inline-6. Meanwhile, the 540i was given more power, totalling 290 hp (216 kW). Also, in the year 2001, Steptronic-equipped E39s had their manual program direction switched to match BMWs F1 cars. Now to upshift, you had to pull back the lever, instead of pushing forward, as in the pre-2001 model year E39s.

Also, in the year 2001, Steptronic-equipped E39s had their manual program direction switched to match BMWs F1 cars. Now to upshift, you had to pull back the lever, instead of pushing forward, as in the pre-2001 model year E39s.

While it began as BMW’s Motorsport division, today the ’M’ in BMW M connotes the Bavarian automaker’s high-performance division. And although BMW M pursues many creative enterprises, it has come to signify a very special breed of high-performance automobiles.

Over the years, M3, M5 and M6 models have offered performance enthusiasts special, uniquely ’M’ interpretations of what a performance automobile should be. Most recently, M has been acclaimed for its high-performance 2-seaters, the M roadster and M coupe (see separate release in this kit). Now M introduces the third generation M5: the most powerful, most luxurious, most high-tech M car ever. An automotive designer’s dream: combining the highest possible level of performance and sumptuous luxury in a single car.

Not incidentally, the E39 M5 is also the first M car powered by a V8 engine. And therein lies the heart of this incredibly exciting sports sedan: a 5-liter, 400-hp V8 engine incorporating a host of new, performance-enhancing technologies making their first-ever appearance in a production motorcar.