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Produced
from 1997-2003, the E39 5 Series is one
of the most successful and lauded model series in BMW's history. The
awards the E39 has won over its seven-year run include four AutoWeek
"America's Best" awards, seven Edmunds.com "Most Wanted" awards, six
Car and Driver 10Best awards, and a total of twelve Automobile
Magazine All-Star awards. In its last full calendar year of sales,
the 5 Series set an all-time sales record of nearly 41,000 units in
the U.S.
BMW's 5 Series' innovative lightweight chassis set new standards for
ride, comfort and handling. Most parts are made from aluminum, giving
precise and responsive handling for more rewarding driving.
Additional innovations include ASC+T, on-board diagnostics, and the option of an on-board monitor with TV, navigation system and
computer.
The E39 was BMW's successor to the E34 five series. The car was introduced in 1996 but was out
almost a year later in the USA and mainland Europe.
The E39 is more streamlined than the E34. The E39 is only slightly heavier than the E34 due to aluminum
suspension components. The E39 was introduced as a four door coupe, with the touring model appearing a year later. Unlike the E34, there is no four wheel drive model.
The E39
diesels (not available in the USA) use the same proven engine as the E34. The new direct injection 530d is a very
powerful engine. The E38 730d has the same M57 engine but produces slightly more torque.
The six cylinder cars use rack and pinion steering, while the V8's use a re-circulating ball system. The six cylinder cars
handle better than the V8's due to the steering differences and lighter weight. All models have about a 50/50 weight distribution, although the V8s are heavier in the front.
The M5 has 400 hp and does 0-60 in 5.3 seconds. The car is available with a manual six speed gearbox. The
M5 is the first M car to have traction control.
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