2000 BMW (E39) M5

This BMW M5 is a millennium-era performance hero, presented in excellent cosmetic condition and with strong mechanicals. Under the bonnet is a 394bhp 4.9-litre naturally-aspirated S62 V8 engine, driven through the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. The E39 generation is often considered as the best all-round version of the M5 to date, and this car has been driven and enjoyed as intended.

First registered in January 2000, there are five previous registered keepers on the log book. The current owner acquired the car nearly 18 months ago.

Its bodywork and paint presents in remarkably good condition for a 20-year-old vehicle. The seller reports that there are stone chips in the common areas that you would expect from road use, but that otherwise the finish is smooth and even around the panels, with a deep shine. All of the body trims and badges are present and correct, and the light lenses are free of cracks. The car remains in stock specification, with the exception of a backbox-delete exhaust system, that unleashes the full aural character of the mighty V8. It rides on the original 18-inch alloys, which would benefit from refurbishment to match the superb condition of the paint, but are in perfectly usable condition as-is.

Inside, the cabin condition is just as impressive as the exterior. The two-tone black and grey leather is in great shape, with no damage to the upholstery, and no unsightly deep scratches or discolouration. The dashboard and door panels are also in very good order. The only real notable wear is some marks on the central armrest and handbrake grip, as shown in the photo gallery, but this little to detract from the otherwise excellent interior.

The last scheduled maintenance was carried out in February 2020 at 131,660 miles by Burch Motor Works. This consisted of an oil service with renewal of the brake fluid. Prior to this, its most recent services were in April 2019 at 128,620 miles, and in July 2015 at 121,169 miles, with the latter being an Inspection I service with replacement of the spark plugs. During the seller’s ownership, the brake discs and pads have been renewed, as have the rear shock absorbers.

The most recent MOT test was on 23 July 2020 at 131,863 miles, when the car passed with one advisory regarding non-excessive corrosion present around the nearside rear seat belt mounting area. The seller reports that the tyres are all Michelin Pilot Sport items in good condition.

Accompanying this car is all of the original literature, handbooks and the stamped maintenance record. The original tools are also in place within the flip-down storage panel, and do not appear to have ever been used.

Writing about the E39 M5 within the last few years, Road and Track magazine stated: “Even today, this M5 is the sports sedan by which all others are judged, and a lot of enthusiasts would argue that even BMW itself hasn't bested it”.

This BMW M5 is an evidently well cared-for example of a sought-after modern classic, which is presented in excellent overall condition. The single MOT advisory would benefit from attention in the near future, but otherwise this E39-era M5 appears to want for nothing. Complete with an extensive history file, it would make a sound addition to any collection, and is certainly an example that can and should be used as intended on the road.

Summary of service history:

• 20 Jan 2000 Pre-delivery
• 11 Feb 2000 - 1,202 miles (running-in)
• 5 Apr 2001 - 13,363 miles (Oil service)
• 25 Sep 2002 - 29,220 miles (Inspection I)
• 9 Dec 2003 - 45,392 miles (Oil service)
• 21 Feb 2005 - 61,278 miles (Inspection II)
• 29 Apr 2006 - 78,987 miles (Oil service)
• 6 Jul 2007 - 89,840 miles (Brake fluid only)
• 4 Apr 2008 - 96,548 miles (Inspection I)
• 15 Jul 2009 - 98,527 miles (Oil service)
• 11 Jul 2011 - 106,461 miles (Inspection I)
• 29 Jul 2015 - 121,169 miles (Oil service)
• 24 Apr 2019 - 128,620 miles (Oil service)
• 24 Feb 2020 - 131,660 miles (Oil service)

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.