The benchmark M5 — naturally-aspirated 4.9-litre V8, manual gearbox, and the high-water mark for the executive super-saloon.
Launched in 1998 and produced until 2003, the E39 M5 used a bespoke 4.9-litre naturally-aspirated S62 V8 producing 400 PS at 6,600 rpm and 369 lb-ft at 3,800 rpm, paired exclusively with a Getrag 420G 6-speed manual. The car was hand-finished at BMW Motorsport's Garching facility and produced in approximately 20,482 units worldwide between 1998 and 2003.
The E39 M5 is widely cited as the benchmark super-saloon and the high-water mark of the manual, naturally-aspirated M5 lineage.
Definitive M5 — manual, naturally-aspirated V8 super-saloon already firmly established as a modern classic.
| Variant | Years | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| M5 (E39) | 1998–2003 | 20,482 | Manual only; minor production-year revisions. |
Start with identity, paperwork and originality. For the BMW M5 (E39), the strongest cars have continuous ownership history, matching numbers where applicable, original books and tools, factory build documentation and evidence of work by manufacturer-approved specialists. Original colour, low mileage, manual gearbox (only transmission factory-fitted), complete books / tools, BMW Classic certificate.
S62 V8 has well-documented service items: VANOS bolts, throttle actuators, rod-bearing service interval (advisory) and exhaust manifold studs. A proper pre-purchase inspection includes cold-start behaviour, ECU diagnostics and fault-code history (where applicable), leak-down or compression testing, underbody photography, suspension and chassis inspection, brake condition and a long enough road test to expose heat-related faults. Deferred maintenance on a car of this class is almost always more expensive than buying a better-sorted example.
Use a paint-depth gauge, lift access and a specialist familiar with the model's factory panel gaps and finish standards. Collector value is dramatically affected by structural repairs, refinished panels, poor paintwork and missing factory trim or option content. Documented cosmetic refresh is acceptable; concealed accident or fire damage must be priced severely.
Original paint, low-mileage cars in lead colours (Le Mans Blue, Imola Red, Silverstone Blue), and full BMW main-dealer / M-specialist history. Specification, colour, options and limited-build variants move values significantly. Buy the best-documented example in the most desirable specification you can justify, rather than a tired example of a rarer derivative that will need years of corrective work.
Regional ranges authored independently — each reflects its local market, not an FX conversion
Budget annually even if the car is used sparingly. Fluids age, tyres and date-coded rubber components must be replaced regardless of mileage, and stored cars need exercise. A documented maintenance rhythm protects both reliability and resale value.
Strong network of S62-specialist independents and BMW dealer support; service is achievable at independent rates. Before purchase, confirm parts availability for model-specific bodywork, electronics, gearbox and engine components. A discounted car waiting on unobtainable parts or a factory service slot is rarely a saving in collector ownership.
Each region quoted in its local currency — independent market readings, not FX conversions
The E39 M5 is now an established modern classic. Concours, low-mileage cars in lead colours have moved decisively; driver cars are firming and project cars are no longer a quick buy given the cost of S62 rebuilds.
| Date | Auction | Car | Mileage | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-08-15 | Bring a Trailer Online | 2002 M5 | 21,800 mi | $118,500 Sold |
| 2025-05-25 | Bonhams Monaco | 2001 M5 | 78,400 km | €52,250 Sold |
Manual, naturally-aspirated V8 super-saloon with a defined collector hierarchy by colour and originality. Best cars should remain firm; driver cars to track gradually.
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Register interestThe valuation figures in this guide are for research purposes only and do not constitute financial or investment advice. See our full disclaimer.
