The five series is BMW's second best-selling model after the three series. The mid-level executive sedan takes a more luxury approach when compared to the sport sedan nature of the three series. The 1995-2004 E39 five series is no exception. The executive sedan is the fourth generation five series, and the 540i is one of the top trim levels, coming in only below the M5. Enhanced luxury features, traditional Bavarian engineering, and an engaging driving experience build on BMW's "ultimate driving machine" moniker. Today, it is no surprise that interest in the E39 is even greater than at its introduction. With so few original and clean examples left, it is likely on its way to becoming a collectible.
BMW 540i E39 Drivetrain And Powertrains
The E39 BMW 540i strikes the perfect combination of both performance and luxury. A standard aluminum 4.4-liter V8 produces 282 horsepower and 325-pound feet of torque. In contrast, 2001 and newer U.S. market cars have 290 horsepower. The DOHC engine features VANOS variable valve timing, and fracture-split forged connecting rods. Power finds its way to the rear wheels via either a five-speed ZF automatic or a heavy-duty Getrag six-speed manual. A four-link "Z-link" rear suspension is similar to the system in the corresponding vintage 7-series. It also saves weight by utilizing aluminum in its construction. Fuel economy is what one would expect in a V8 sedan of this caliber 15 city and 23 highway.
BMW 540i E39 Performance And Handling
The performance and handling abilities of the E39 BMW 540i are something most consumers would expect to find in a much smaller car. The 3,600-pound 540i reaches 60 in only 5.7 seconds with a 14.3 second 1/4 mile at 96.9 mph. The top speed of the BMW 540i is 156 mph. Upfront, a double-jointed Macpherson front suspension ensures that the 540i is as competent in turns as straight lines.
Surprisingly, the car utilizes a recirculating ball power steering system. While reliable, it lacks typical BMW preciseness. The five-speed automatic provides comfortable unintrusive shifts. The enthusiast's choice, however, is the six-speed manual. The car comes to life when the driver is in complete control of the shift points, and it is the only way to utilize all of the car's V8 power. Comfort on the highway is sublime with a perfect blend of comfort and sporting prowess. A self-leveling suspension available in wagon variants helps keep the ride level even when towing or loaded with cargo.
BMW 540i E39 Interior, Quality, And Technology
The interior of the E39 BMW 540i is a grand testament to the Bavarian quality of the time. High-quality leathers that wrap themselves around soft-touch materials are copiously attached to all high-touch areas within the cabin. Wood finish is on the dash and on all four doors. The gauge cluster is distinctively German in its layout. Easily legible white on black analog gauges features placement according to function. An analog gauge for fuel economy is a forward-thinking touch. A small digital panel provides clock and trip functions. Audio comes from a BMW's "Professional" line of stereo systems. A power rear sunshade with manual rear door shades is also standard. A standard sunroof helps bring light into the expansive cabin of the car. Storage capacity is an adequate 16.3 cubic feet.
Technology in the E39 BMW 540i is also abundant. Safety is at the forefront, earning the E39 the highest "G" rating across the board in government crash tests. A strong safety cage protects occupants from cabin intrusion. Standard dual front airbags and side-impact airbags for both the front and back seat protect occupants in any situation. The E39 is also one of the first cars to implement curtain-style airbags specifically for head protection in side impacts. Altogether there are eight airbags in total. The 540i also comes standard with pioneering high-intensity xenon headlights.
BMW 540i E39 Pricing
The original MSRP of the E39 BMW 540i is $53,300. Consumers could find extremely cheap clean examples for well under $5,000 only a few years ago. However, the E39 is going through a mild resurgence, as 1990s cars continue to increase in popularity rapidly. Now that the kids of the 1990s can finally afford their childhood dream cars pricing of 1990s luxury cars is vastly changing. Clean manual examples of E39 540i can now fetch as much as $72,000 at auction for an ultra-low mileage car. While generally well-maintained vehicles with 80-100,000 miles regularly sell for $10,000 to 15,000. Manual cars command a 15% premium over their automatic counterparts. Overall the BMW 540i E39 is an excellent sedan with sporting prowess and long haul comfort, and it is no surprise to see that the market is finally recognizing it as a genuine classic BMW.