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2000 BMW (E39) M5

This handsome BMW M5 is a well-equipped and well-maintained example of the lauded ‘super saloon’, with the E39 generation being seen by many as the best all-round model given its blend of impressive performance and engaging analogue drive. It is powered by a 394bhp 4.9-litre naturally aspirated S62 V8 engine, linked to a six-speed manual transmission, which drives the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential.

First registered in September 2000, the seller understands that it was supplied when new to the Ministry of Defence, and that it was equipped with toughened glass and a blue emergency light fitted to one of the sun visors – both of which have since been removed. The current owner has covered 3,500 miles in the last year. The odometer shows 141,403 miles from new.

Demonstrating BMW’s commitment to luxury and performance in equal measure, the M5’s factory specification includes heated, power-adjustable front seats, with three memory settings for the driver, electric sunroof, electric folding mirrors and electrically adjustable steering wheel. The car’s rear passengers are also well cared-for, with the inclusion of an electrically-deployed rear sunshade. The seller states that all of the core switchgear works perfectly, including the sport button that sharpens throttle response and adds more weight to the steering.

Painted in Individual Avus Blue, this M5’s bodywork is in very good overall condition, with no signs of any damage, and with a glossy shine to the finish around the panels. It has flush shut lines and tight panel gaps, and with few imperfections in the paint. The seller does note some bubbling around the nearside tail light, and at the rear bumper panel joins, as well as some paint peel in the roof channels where rack bars were previously fitted. There is also a small mark on the passenger door, and some hazing to the headlights. All of these small blemishes are clearly shown in the gallery, and barely detract from the generally impressive appearance. The seller also confirms that all jacking points and surrounding areas are solid.

The car rides on its original 18-inch Chrome Shadow ‘Style 65’ alloy wheels with 10 dual spokes, which are in good order, save for some small chips and marks. The correct M badges have also been fitted to the wheel centres since the photos were taken. The service history shows that the bonnet and grille were replaced in 2010, though it would be impossible to tell if the paperwork was not present. There is no record in the file as to why they needed to be renewed, but there are no damage markers on the HPI report.

Inside, the interior trim is in very smart condition. The seats were specified in the optional Heritage leather, accompanied by brushed aluminium trim and black headlining. There are no rips or tears in the leather, and only the typical driver’s seat bolster wear that you would expect to find given the age and mileage. There is a mark on the passenger sun visor and also some wear to the M-branded leather gear knob and steering wheel trim. The seller notes that the electric control for the front passenger headrest is not working. Its grey boot carpet presents smartly with a few small marks left by luggage, and there is a full tool kit, locking wheel nut key, tow bar and air compressor present.

Last serviced in July 2019 by BMW specialist ETA Motorsport in Kent at 139,670 miles, this M5 was treated to an ‘Inspection 2’ service, including a replacement air filter, spark plugs, cabin air filter, engine oil and oil filter. The car’s timing chain tensioner was also replaced at this point, at a total cost of just over £830. Prior to this, an oil service was carried out at 127,000 miles, and another ‘Inspection 2’ service at 112,000 miles.

During its life so far, this E39 M5 has been well-maintained, and a summary of the service history is included below. The common weak spots on E39’s of this age have been addressed, with work completed in recent years including replacement of all the brake lines, the viscous fan coupling, prop shaft and bearing, plus renewal of the gearbox mounts. Receipts totalling more than £4,000 for this work are present in the service history.

The car’s most recent MOT test was carried out on 11 October 2019 at 140,141 miles, where it received a clean pass with no advisories. Its wheels are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres, which were fitted 2,000 miles ago and still have plenty of tread.

Accompanying the car is the original M-branded leather wallet, complete with handbooks and BMW service enquiry and recall forms, as well as extensive documentation of its service history from 2014 onwards in particular. The car comes with two keys.

A testament to the level of quality offered by BMW and the M division in this era, this E39 M5 is a smart and usable car that presents well, and comes with a large history file confirming its previous owners have enjoyed and cared for the car in equal measure. It is a true modern classic, and one that is ready to keep being driven and relished as intended on the road.

Summary of service history: