2002 BMW (E39) M5

This BMW M5 is a well-presented and well-maintained example of the most celebrated ‘super saloons’ of them all, with a variety of performance upgrades. It is powered by BMW’s 4.9-litre S62 V8, that has been boosted by an aftermarket Vortech V3 supercharger to produce around 630bhp. This power is channelled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. The odometer reads 108,000 miles from new.

An original UK-market car, this M5 was first registered on 20 March 2002 and there are six previous registered keepers. The current vendor has owned and enjoyed this M5 for over 10 years, and has undertaken several European road trips in the car without fault during this time.

First released in 1998, the E39-generation M5 was the first to feature a V8 engine and the first to use multi-link rear suspension. It is regarded by many motoring journalists as the most complete M5 ever, on account of its blend of accessible performance, involving driveline, and quality engineering.

Its eye-catching Imola Red paintwork shines with a deep lustre, and the seller advises that it has previously been resprayed. There are very few imperfections, with the most visible being a light scuff on the rear-left corner of the bumper and black plastic trim. There is also a light coating of stone chips to the front end.

The factory-fitment fog lights have been deleted to aid cooling for the engine bay, while a tasteful and discreet aftermarket front splitter has been fitted. This M5 wears the correct ‘Style 65’ alloy wheels in the Chrome Shadow finish, which are in excellent order. The centre caps and M badging are also blemish-free, as are the Stoptech brake callipers.

The M5’s cabin has worn the years well, with contact points including the steering wheel, gearstick and handbrake grip free of damage. The steering wheel has at some point been re-trimmed in Alcantara for improved grip, and has slight signs of use.

The black leather seats with driver’s memory function are in good condition with no rips, tears or scratches apparent. An original BMW infotainment system and period-correct Motorola flip phone cradle are also included. The seller reports that everything including the optional sunroof is in working order, with no electrical faults.

This high-performance E39 presents in excellent mechanical order. Prior to the most recent service the car had a full build of the engine and differential, to ensure the car was in fine fettle.

The most recent MOT test was on 8 May 2019 at 106,283 miles. This resulted in a clean pass with no advisories, with the next MOT not due until early November 2020 thanks to the COVID-19 six month extension scheme.

The M5 rides on nearly new Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres in staggered 245/40/ZR18 front and 275/35/ZR18 rear sizing. These have ample tread remaining, with approximately 1,000 miles having been covered since they were fitted.

This well-documented example of the E39 M5 will reach its next owner with its full complement of BMW handbooks, stamped service history and a number of supporting invoices, as well as two keys. Included in the sale will be the original BMW tool kit as well as the tyre inflator.

Offering a uniquely analogue driving experience augmented by a number of high-performance modifications, this E39-generation BMW M5 combines timeless design with an engaging chassis, and eye-opening outright pace. It would be an ideal summer toy, or a particularly thrilling daily driver, and is sure to delight its next owner.

Summary of modifications:

• Vortech V3 supercharger fitted (630bhp)
• PWR front mount intercooler with additional Setrab oil cooler
• TTV Racing organic twin-plate clutch and flywheel
• Rebuilt engine and differential
• Coilover suspension
• Hayward & Scott exhaust backboxes with 200 cell catalytic converter

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.