Tuning BMW M5 E39: when the whole M5 is not enough.... "BMW M5 E39": technical specifications, review and photos What engine is on the M5 E39
The car from the BMW concern in the back of the E39 began to be developed back in 1989. Only 6 years later the new generation of the 5 Series was presented to the general public. This happened in the fall of 1995 at an exhibition in Frankfurt.
“Entwicklung 39” is the code name of the fourth generation of the fifth series BMW
E39 is the fourth generation of the fifth series of BMW. According to the technical documentation at the factory, the car was called Entwicklung 39. Translated from German, this word means: “expansion”, “evolution”, “development”, “process”. Such words are the best fit for this car model from Bavarian design engineers. During its development, reviews of the BMW in the previous body with the E34 index were taken into account. The main complaints then were about the suspension, so in the fourth generation they paid a lot of attention to it.
Specifications
| Indicator/modification | 520i | 520i Touring | 525i | 530i | 520d | 525tds | M5 | ||
| Until 2000 | Since 2001 | Until 2000 | Since 2001 | ||||||
| Engine capacity, cubic meters cm | 1991 | 2171 | 191 | 2171 | 2494 | 2979 | 1951 | 2498 | 4398 |
| Power, hp | 150 | 170 | 150 | 170 | 192 | 231 | 136 | 143 | 286 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 220 | 226 | 212 | 223 | 238 | 250 | 206 | 211 | 250 |
| Fuel consumption (urban cycle), l per 100 km | 12,6 | 12,2 | 13,7 | 12,8 | 13,1 | 13,7 | 7,8 | 11,5 | 17,7 |
| Acceleration time to 100 km/h, sec. | 10,0 | 9,0 | 11,0 | 10 | 8,0 | 7,0 | 11,0 | 10,0 | 6,0 |
| Length, mm | 4775 | 4808 | 4805 | 4775 | |||||
| Height, mm | 1800 | 1800 | 1800 | 1800 | |||||
| Width, mm | 1435 | 1440 | 1445 | 1435 | |||||
What was new in the fourth generation?
The fourth generation “Five” became the first BMW car with a lightweight suspension. German engineers managed to reduce the total weight of the car by 38%. This result was achieved through the use of components and parts made of aluminum. The lightweight suspension made it possible to create a car with increased smoothness and significantly increased driving comfort.
Aluminum was also used to make some body panels. This innovation helped protect it from corrosion. The E39 body resists rust very well.
Fourth generation BMW 5 Series Touring
The E39 was the first BMW car to have a stainless steel exhaust system installed. This significantly increased the service life of the muffler.
The fourth generation of the BMW car was distinguished by increased sound insulation. Double glass was used for the side windows. This significantly reduced noise penetration into the cabin.
Base model BMW E39. Interior equipment
The 520i is considered the core of BMW's 5 Series sedan range. It was equipped with a 2-liter power unit producing 148 horses. Average fuel consumption is 9 liters per 100 kilometers. Two years later, in 1997, the concern launched a station wagon into series. The word was added to the index of the universal model Touring. This car consumes up to 13 liters in city mode, and 6.9 liters per hundred in highway mode.
Fuel consumption in mixed mode is 9 liters per 100 kilometers
The basic configuration now includes options that were previously available only for additional money. Here is their list:
- climate control;
- multifunction steering wheel;
- Cruise control;
- bluetooth;
- automatic heated mirrors.
Upon request, the car can be equipped with a heated steering wheel. The power control is located on the steering wheel itself, which is very convenient. The steering column can be adjusted in two directions. Three steering wheel positions can be stored in memory.
Comfortable front seats are adjustable. Not only the backrest tilt and seat height are adjustable, but also the length of the lower part. It became possible to adjust the tilt of the upper part of the backrest separately from the lower one. This design is called the “BMW breaking back.” The front seats are equipped with three-position memory.
The E39 received four stars in crash testing.
The signature feature of this sedan is the floor-mounted accelerator pedal. Some BMW owners have pointed out that it is a bit harsh. But everyone unanimously said that the gas pedal is very sensitive.
During the crash test, the E39 received four stars from the international organization EuroNCAP. In addition to AirBag airbags, the business sedan is equipped with a seat belt tightening system in case of an accident.
EuroNCAP is a European international organization founded in 1997. Its main activity is conducting independent crash tests. Based on the test results, the committee issues ratings for passive and active safety.
The wide rear sofa can accommodate three people. True, the average passenger will feel inconvenienced with the placement of his legs; he will be hampered by the rather wide transmission tunnel in the middle.
It is noteworthy that the luggage compartment of the sedan has a volume of 460 liters, which is 50 liters more than that of the station wagon. But in the station wagon it is possible to open the glass of the fifth door without opening the trunk itself.
E39 power units
Under the hood of the E39, engines with an aluminum block were installed. It was in the 90s that German car manufacturers began to use all-aluminum cylinder blocks. The Bavarians did not even think that anyone would bore and repair their engines. To increase the service life of the engine, the inside of the cylinders was coated with a special substance called nikasil. It is an alloy of nickel and silicon. But as practice has shown, the nikasilon coating is quickly destroyed by low-quality fuel. Therefore, since 1998, they began to install cast iron sleeves in blocks.
At the start of mass production, the business sedan was equipped with a line of three gasoline engines and one diesel engine. The engine of the previous “five” was taken as the basis. Below is a list of modifications with corresponding power units:
- petrol models 520i – M52TU B20, 523i – M52TU B25, 528i – M52TU B28;
- diesel 525tds – M5
The M52 series of power units are six-cylinder units. The weakest one develops power up to 150 horses. The 2.3-liter engine produces 170 horsepower. On city roads, this car consumes a little more than 13 liters. The most powerful gasoline engine is capable of developing 193 hp. The diesel engine has a power of 143 horsepower. In city mode, diesel fuel consumption is 11.5 liters, on the highway – 6.2 liters.
Double-VANOS system - camshaft control
Since 1998, the BMW concern began producing the top model M5. The main difference between this model was the engine. A V-shaped “eight” was installed under the hood. It was the first car with a power unit that developed a power of 400 horses! Its volume was 5 liters. In addition, the M5 model used the new Double-VANOS system - control of two camshafts. The fuel supply system has also been changed: eight throttle valves supply the fuel-air mixture to eight cylinders. Average fuel consumption is up to 14 liters per hundred kilometers.
Design changes and restyling
In 1999, Bavarian designers carried out several modernizations of the BMW E39. The exterior has not been changed. The main design changes affected the engines. Six-cylinder engines were equipped with two camshafts. In the same year, a new M57D30 engine was added to the line of diesel power units - a 6-cylinder engine with a new Common Rail injection system. The injection for this car was developed by Bosch.
In 2000, German engineers carried out a large-scale restyling of the fourth generation. This time they made adjustments to the appearance and added three new power units. The exterior of the car received new side lights, a modified radiator grille and a new front bumper. For the first time, BMW used the new Celis-Technik technology, later it was called “angel eyes”.
6-cylinder engine with new common rail injection system
Since 2000, new engines with the M54 index began to be installed. These in-line engines had six cylinders and a Double-VANOS control system. Modernization made it possible to obtain more powerful engines. The 520i model has become more powerful by 20 horses. Now 170 horses fit under its hood. The 525i with the M54B25 engine produces 192 hp. with a torque of 245 Nm. The top model with the 530i index received the M54B30 with an impressive herd under the hood of 231 horses. The maximum speed of this “five” is 250 km/h, gasoline consumption in city mode is 13.7 liters per hundred.
At the beginning of 2000, a new model with a diesel engine also appeared. This “five” bore the index 520d. Having a 2-liter diesel engine with a power of 136 hp, it accelerated to hundreds in just under 11 seconds.
The fourth generation was produced until 2003, the BMW M5 until 2004. The E39 body was replaced by the fifth generation model E60. According to the editors of the authoritative publication AutoBild, the BMW E39 is the most successful business-class sedan in terms of driving performance and with an excellent line of power units.
Video review
For the first time, the fourth generation of the BMW 5 Series was presented to the public at the Geneva Motor Show in September 1995. The Touring station wagon debuted a little later - in 1997.
Compared to the BMW E34, the interior of the E39 has improved sound insulation, and the quality of finishing materials and workmanship has increased significantly. Despite the apparent spaciousness and solid appearance, the E39 is not so spacious inside. Like its predecessor, the new “five” was designed around the driver. The rear sofa is not very spacious and is clearly not designed for three people. There is less legroom here than in its German classmates, although two passengers in the back will be comfortable. The ceiling is quite low, and entry into the cabin is not very comfortable - due to the large wheel niche, the doorway is narrow.
The trunk does not seem very large for a car of this class - “only” 460 liters. The luggage compartment of the station wagon is also inferior to its classmates - 410 liters versus almost 600 liters for the Mercedes-Benz E-klasse. For an extra charge, the Touring was equipped with a retractable luggage compartment floor. The frame with glass in the rear door of the station wagon can open upwards separately from the door itself.
The “charged” version of the “five” - the M5 model from the sports division of BMW Motorsport GmbH was released in October 1998. Those wishing to purchase a Bavarian “wolf” need to remember that the M5 is an original model that has a number of differences from the regular E39, and this applies not only to the “fillings”. Some body parts have also changed, even the rear-view mirrors have become different. The car was equipped with a 4.9-liter V8 engine with a power of 400 hp, a sports suspension, a reinforced transmission, as well as a special aerodynamic body kit, which, however, was optionally installed on conventional modifications.
But the absolute exclusive was the B10 5.7 model, released in 1997 by the BMW Alpina tuning company. The 5.7-liter 12-cylinder power unit installed on the car develops a power of 387 hp. And the maximum torque is as much as 560 Nm! In total, about 500 cars were produced.
At the end of 1999, assembly of the BMW E39 523i and 528i for the Russian market began at the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad. These cars differed from their German counterparts in a special package for “bad” roads and the absence of a catalyst.
In the fall of 2000, the BMW “five” was modernized.
The restyled versions differ from the cars of earlier releases by new headlights with characteristic side lights in the form of rings, made on LEDs (the so-called “angel eyes”). The front fog lights changed their shape from trapezoidal to round. The bumpers, turn signals and taillights have also changed. Moldings began to be painted in body color. The range of power units has also been updated.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS BMW 5 SERIES E39 2000 - 2003 SEDAN
ENGINE CHARACTERISTICS
| Modifications | Engine capacity, cm3 | Power, kW (hp)/rev | Cylinders | Torque, Nm/(rpm) | Fuel system type | Fuel type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | 1951 | 100(136)/4000 | L4 (in-line) | 280/1750 | Common Rail | Diesel |
| 525d | 2497 | 120(163)/4000 | Row arrangement - L6 | 350/2000 | Common Rail | Diesel |
| 530d | 2926 | 142(193.1)/4000 | Row arrangement - L6 | 410/1750 | Common Rail | Diesel |
| 520i | 2171 | 125(170)/6100 | Row arrangement - L6 | 210/3500 | Multipoint injection | Petrol |
| 525i | 2494 | 141(192)/6000 | Row arrangement - L6 | 245/3500 | Multipoint injection | Petrol |
| 530i | 2979 | 170(231)/5900 | Row arrangement - L6 | 300/3500 | Multipoint injection | Petrol |
| 535i | 3498 | 180(245)/5800 | V-shaped: V8 | 345/3800 | Multipoint injection | Petrol |
| 540i | 4398 | 210(286)/5400 | V-shaped: V8 | 440/3600 | Multipoint injection | Petrol |
DRIVE AND TRANSMISSION
| Modifications | type of drive | Transmission type (basic) | Transmission type (optional) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | Rear drive | 5-speed manual | 5-automatic transmission, |
| 525d | Rear drive | 5-speed manual | 5-automatic transmission, |
| 530d | Rear drive | 5-speed manual | 5-automatic transmission, |
| 520i | Rear drive | 5-speed manual | 5-automatic transmission, |
| 525i | Rear drive | 5-speed manual | 5-automatic transmission, |
| 530i | Rear drive | 5-speed manual | 5-automatic Steptronic, |
| 535i | Rear drive | 5-automatic | |
| 540i | Rear drive | 5-automatic |
BRAKE SYSTEM AND POWER STEERING
| Modifications | Front brake type | Rear brake type | Power steering |
|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 525d | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 530d | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 520i | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 525i | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 530i | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 535i | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
| 540i | Ventilated discs | Ventilated disc | There is |
TIRE SIZE
| Modifications | Size |
|---|---|
| 520d | 205/65 R15 94 V |
| 525d | 205/65 R15 94 V |
| 530d | 225/55 R16 95 W |
| 520i | 205/65 R15 94 V |
| 525i | 225/60 R15 96 W |
| 530i | 225/55 R 16 95 W |
| 535i | 225/55 R16 95W |
| 540i | 225/55 R16 95W |
DIMENSIONS
| Modifications | Length, mm | Width, mm | Height, mm | Front/rear track, mm | Wheelbase, mm | Ground clearance (clearance), mm | Trunk volume, l |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1516/1529 | 2830 | 119 | 459 |
| 525d | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1516/1529 | 2830 | 119 | 459 |
| 530d | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1511/1527 | 2830 | 119 | 459 |
| 520i | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1516/1529 | 2830 | 119 | 459 |
| 525i | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1511/1527 | 2830 | 119 | 459 |
| 530i | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1511/1527 | 2830 | — | 456 |
| 535i | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1511/1527 | 2830 | — | 459 |
| 540i | 4775 | 1801 | 1435 | 1511/1527 | 2830 | — | 459 |
VEHICLE WEIGHT
| Modifications | Curb weight, kg | Maximum weight, kg | Load capacity, kg |
|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | 1565 | 2000 | 435 |
| 525d | 1670 | 2135 | 465 |
| 530d | 1700 | 2165 | 465 |
| 520i | 1570 | 2005 | 435 |
| 525i | 1575 | 2010 | 435 |
| 530i | 1605 | 2070 | 465 |
| 535i | 1685 | 2150 | 465 |
| 540i | 1705 | 2170 | 465 |
DYNAMICS
| Modifications | Maximum speed, km/h | Acceleration time to 100 km/h, s | Cd (Drag coefficient) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | 206 | 10.6 | 0.29 |
| 525d | 219 | 8.9 | 0.29 |
| 530d | 230 | 7.8 | 0.29 |
| 520i | 226 | 9.1 | 0.29 |
| 525i | 238 | 8.1 | 0.29 |
| 530i | 250 | 7.1 | 0.3 |
| 535i | 250 | 6.9 | 0.29 |
| 540i | 250 | 6.2 | 0.29 |
FUEL CONSUMPTION
| Modifications | In the city, l/100 km | On the highway, l/100 km | Average consumption, l/100 km | CO2 emissions, g/km | Fuel type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520d | 7.8 | 4.7 | 5.9 | 156 | Diesel |
| 525d | 9.2 | 5.3 | 6.7 | 179 | Diesel |
| 530d | 9.7 | 5.6 | 7.1 | 189 | Diesel |
| 520i | 12.2 | 7.1 | 9 | 216 | Petrol |
| 525i | 13.1 | 7.2 | 9.4 | 225 | Petrol |
| 530i | 13.1 | 7.4 | 9.5 | 229 | Petrol |
| 535i | 17.6 | 8.5 | 11.8 | 286 | Petrol |
| 540i | 18.4 | 8.8 | 12.3 | 295 | Petrol |
PRICES FOR BMW 5 SERIES E39 2000 - 2003 IN RUSSIA (UPDATED APRIL 22, 2016)
| Modifications according to year of manufacture | Total cars on sale (in the Russian Federation) | Average price, rubles |
Average price from Automatic transmission, rubles |
Total on sale with automatic transmission | Average price from Manual transmission, rubles |
Total available with manual transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 66 | 484 893 | 489 790 | 48 | 472 100 | 21 |
| 2002 | 46 | 522 943 | 524 823 | 33 | 510 849 | 10 |
| 2003 | 48 | 652 652 | 653 510 | 35 | 650 495 | 16 |
Body and equipment
The history of the BMW 5 E39 began in 1995 and ended in 2003, having undergone one restyling at the end of 2000. Traditionally for the Bavarian manufacturer, the entire car is built around the driver's seat. This does not mean that passengers were discriminated against, just that maximum attention was paid to the driver. Despite the rather impressive dimensions of the car, the interior is not as spacious as it seems from the outside, but with a height of up to 190 cm, it will be comfortable for everyone, even those sitting behind the driver.
The quality of finishing materials and assembly are excellent; door cards are most susceptible to damage. The noise insulation of the “five” is a five (on a 5.5 point scale), it is advisable to additionally “silence” the doors, especially if you like high-quality sound in the car. Standard music is also not perfect, often cassette radios are included in the package, if there is a CD changer, then you still won’t see MP3, but this can be easily fixed (if you have money left after the purchase).
But the car’s equipment is most often pleasing, since even the “base” already included: power accessories (mirrors, windows), air conditioning, 6 airbags, power steering, ABS (anti-lock braking system), ASC+T (traction control) and DSC III (electronic system stabilization). Moreover, cars with richer equipment are often offered for sale, for example, dual-zone climate control is almost the norm.
The most noticeable change after restyling was the front optics, and then the famous “angel eyes” were born. The rear lights and direction indicators also changed, the fog lights became round, and the moldings on the bumpers began to be painted in body color. The decorative radiator grille has changed and the steering wheel design has become M-style. The range of engines has also been updated.
The body of the BMW 5 E39 is very resistant to corrosion if there is no damage. Even the highest quality restoration repairs will not restore the former resistance of the metal. And with the current urban traffic regime, as well as taking into account the pace of movement of BMW owners, there are not many unbroken copies left. But whoever seeks will find.
BMW 5 E39 engines
The engine is the heart of any car, and in the case of BMW, this expression becomes even more relevant. For a rather heavy E39, many consider a 2.8-liter engine (193 hp) to be the optimal power/cost combination; after restyling, it was replaced by a 3-liter (231 hp). If we take into account that fuel consumption and the total cost of maintenance for all 6-cylinder engines are approximately the same, then there is simply no point in buying a 2-liter BMW 5 E39. As a last resort, you can take a 2.5-liter engine if you come across a well-maintained copy of the “five”.
The following gasoline engines were installed on the BMW 5 Series, in the back of the E39:
M52 - reliable in-line six-cylinder engines. Displacement: 2.0 (520i), 2.5 (523i), 2.8 (528i) liters. Since 1999, they have become repairable; before that time, engines were produced with Nikasil coating of the cylinder walls. This coating is very sensitive to the sulfur content in gasoline (and there is plenty of this goodness in our fuel). Sulfur destroys this coating, after which the engine cannot be restored or repaired. Since the end of 1998, modernization was carried out; the M52 engine was equipped with cast iron inserts (sleeves). Modified engines are designated M52TU.
M54- R6 engine, which began to be installed after restyling. Displacement: 2.2 (520i), 2.5 (525i), 3.0 (530i) liters. It differs from the M52 in greater power (2.5 liter M54 192 hp, and 2.8 liter M52 - 193 hp), a different intake manifold, electronic throttle and gas pedal, as well as a different engine control unit.
M62- V-shaped eight-cylinder engine. Displacement: 3.5 (530i), 4.4 (540i) liters. In the production of M62, nikasil coating was also used, but in parallel with it, alusil coating was also used - a stronger and more reliable material that was not affected by sulfur. After March 1997, the Bavarian manufacturer began to use only alusil coating. The updated engine, marked M62TU, also received a “Vanos” variable valve timing system, which is discussed below.
BMW 5 E39 engines began to use a revolutionary, at that time, system for adjusting camshafts that control the intake and exhaust valves. Thanks to this system, the torque at low speeds has increased significantly, and the car accelerates perfectly from the very bottom. There is a “just vanos” that regulates only the intake valves; these were installed on the M52 before restyling, as well as on the M62TU. And also “double vanos” (Double Vanos), which also controls the exhaust valves, which allows you to get even traction over almost the entire rev range. This was installed on the M52TU and M54.
The disadvantages of this system include only repairs. The average service life, with proper maintenance, is 250 thousand km, depending mainly on the quality of the oil. Replacing the complete system will cost from $1000, although there are repair kits that are much cheaper ($40-60 without replacement work, for a “single-vanity engine”). In some cases, the repair kit will no longer help, only replacement. Signs of a “dying vanos”: poor (sluggish) traction up to 3000 rpm, rattling or knocking in the front of the engine and increased fuel consumption.
The following diesel engines were installed on the BMW 5 Series, in the back of the E39:
M51S and M51TUS - diesel engines with fuel injection pump. Working volume - 2.5 liters (525tds). They are quite reliable (in good hands), the timing chain runs 200-250 thousand km, and the turbocharger runs the same. After 200,000 km, the fuel injection pump will also need to be repaired (expensive). The engine control electronics often malfunction.
M57- more modern turbodiesels, already with direct fuel injection (Common Rail). Working volume - 2.5 liters (525d), 3.0 liters (530d). In general, the M57 is more reliable and more powerful than the M51, provided that high-quality diesel fuel is used (in our realities this is a difficult condition). Engine hydraulic mounts are of a very complex design and cost a lot of money. Of all the diesel engines, the 530D (184 hp - M57, 193 hp - M57TU) is the most preferable option, but it is necessary Very thorough diagnosis before purchase.
M47 - the only four-cylinder engine in the entire E39 series. Displacement - 2.0 liters (520d). With a turbine, intercooler and Common Rail system - develops 136 hp. Appeared after restyling, essentially a small M57.
Common problems for all engines that BMW E39 owners may encounter: 
Weak cooling system, neglect of which can lead to the “death” of the engine. The main culprits are the electric motor of the additional fan, the thermostat, radiators clogged with dirt and neglect to regularly replace the coolant. It is highly recommended to clean radiators (with disassembly) at least once a year (if the mileage is short, then once every two years). On V8 engines, coolant expansion tanks often burst, and the average “life” of cooling fans is 5-6 years.
Another problem is the ignition coils, which really do not like non-original spark plugs, but the original ones with our fuel last for 30-40 thousand mileage. But the cost of one coil is $60, and each cylinder relies on one separate coil. From electronics, lambda probes (oxygen sensors, there are already 4 of them on the E39), an air flow meter and a crankshaft and camshaft position sensor can also be a concern. It is not necessary that all this “happiness” will fall on you, and right at the same time, but to prevent this from happening, do not spare money on diagnostics before purchasing an E39.
BMW E39 gearbox
Both manual and automatic gearboxes that were installed on the BMW 5 E39 are quite reliable, but the “human” factor is always present. Manual transmissions were mostly 5-speed; only the M5 version and some 540i were equipped with six speeds. After 150,000 km, the plastic bushing of the shift lever often wears out (it begins to dangle), and oil seals may also leak. The manual transmission service schedule is 60,000 km, at the same time it is necessary to change the oil in the gearbox. Before purchasing oil, check the presence of stickers on the box and gearbox, as they indicate the type of oil required. It is highly not recommended to buy a car with a “dead” clutch, since when replacing a clutch, you most often have to change the dual-mass flywheel, which is expensive. During quiet operation, the clutch can “depart” for 200,000 km, but in reality the average service life is about 100,000 km. 
If the automatic transmission is thoroughly diagnosed before purchase (there should be no jolts, jerks, switching should be imperceptible), then there should be no problems in the future. In most automatic transmissions on the E39, oil is filled for the entire service life of the vehicle, that is, there is no need to change it. And this is the subject of eternal debate on specialized BMW forums. One side believes that if everything works fine, then there is no need to change the oil. The other side argues that the manufacturer sets an average service life of 250-300 thousand km. And if you do not change the oil every 80-100,000 km, the oil will lose its properties, and the filter will become clogged with dust from wear of the clutches, which will lead to failure of the gearbox. All service stations support regular oil changes.
Chassis and steering
The suspension of the BMW 5 E39 is clearly designed for the German autobahn; in our harsh realities, the service life of both the front and rear suspensions does not last very long. Some believe that this is due to the aluminum suspension, but the metal has nothing to do with it. Aluminum is used to reduce weight, and does not affect the suspension life, but the cost. Silent blocks, ball joints, shock absorbers and stabilizer struts fail. The silent blocks are replaced separately, but the ball blocks are replaced only with the lever together, but they “go” for about 100,000 km. Stabilizer struts are almost a consumable, you can safely take them in reserve, since they will have to be changed every 20-30 thousand km. On the E39 with R6 and V8 engines, the front suspension has different arms, shock absorbers and steering knuckles; they are not interchangeable, and on versions with eight cylinders the chassis is more durable.
On versions with V8, the steering is also much more reliable; reliable worm gearboxes were installed in conjunction with such heavy engines. And on the R6 they installed ordinary steering racks, which are not particularly reliable. For some time, the knock can be removed by adjustment, then restoration or replacement. There are two types of fluid in the steering system; mixing leads to leakage and “death” of the power steering.
You won't be able to forget about the rear suspension either. You can start with the stabilizer struts, just like the front. In second place in terms of replacement frequency are “floating” silent blocks, there are 4 of them with an average mileage of 50,000 km (Chinese-Polish ones no more than 20,0000 km). The rear suspension arms come only as assembled parts. The front wheel bearings, by the way, are also replaced only together with the hub.
When servicing the chassis of the BMW 5 E39, it is recommended not to delay the elimination of individual breakdowns or knocks; it is better to eliminate problems gradually than to end up with a car whose suspension is completely “killed”. One broken silent block can speed up the destruction of the remaining suspension elements several times.
When developing the BMW e39, it was immediately planned to install a V8 engine with 286 hp, given that in those years only hypercars had so many horses, then there was simply no need for a more powerful engine, for a car whose weight exceeded 1800 kg, in general sport is contraindicated.
But other manufacturers have noticed that business sedans with huge and powerful engines are in demand. And even marketers realized that by selling sports versions of regular sedans, simpler models, and especially all kinds of accessories that distinguish the charged version from the regular one, begin to sell better. For example: body kits, nameplates, steering wheels, interior trim elements, etc.
And then the engineers were given the green light to develop a sports engine based on the V8, which they so wanted to do for the previous one.
The engine turned out to be notable, with 400 hp. And in 1998, the new BMW M5 E39 went into production. Although it was still assembled by hand. Over the 5 years of production, almost 20,500 units were manufactured.
The BMW M5 E39 was produced only in a sedan body; the station wagon was abandoned, releasing only one prototype.
The heart of the M5 was the S62B50. It was built on the base but with a very large number of modifications, ranging from the installation of a Vanos valve timing system, individual throttles and ending with a different injection setting. Acceleration to hundreds took 5.3 seconds, and the top speed was limited to 250 km/h, but if you remove the limiter, the car will accelerate to 301 km/h. Anyone could remove the limiter, provided they had completed a BMW driving course.
There was only one gearbox, a 6-speed manual, a very clear device, all the shifts were like the bolt of a rifle.
The suspension remains broadly the same as the 540i, but the arms are thicker, the springs and dampers are stiffer, and the ride height has been lowered by 23mm.
The brake discs were huge: 13.6 and 12.9 inches. They were quite enough even for the track.
In 2001, the E39 underwent restyling, during which “angel eyes” and front and rear parking sensors appeared in the optics. The cabin now features a large on-board media screen and an improved audio system.
P.S.
A few years ago I had the opportunity to drive a BMW E39. I'll tell you about something that surprised me very much. Let's start with the suspension, the collective farmers say that it is very stiff, but it seemed just perfect to me, we were driving on a not very good road and it was very elastic, moderately hard, while I drove along that section of the road in other cars and theirs It was already breaking through the suspension, but on the M5 everything was perfect. At the same time, although the suspension is low, due to the shorter travel you can drive on fairly bad roads without fear of getting caught on the bottom or bumper. Of course there is a problem with the curbs, they are all higher than the front spoiler... and p.e. Almost all M5s have them cracked.
Motor, at that time I had an E34 525i, and I thought that the M5 would have a very high-powered engine, which would barely pull at the bottom and make a loud, high-pitched sound, but it turned out that the M5 would have a gurgling, low, American sound and very high traction at the bottom, such that in the city you can engage 5th or 6th gear and drive without problems. Those. you can drive very calmly anywhere, but if you stomp on the gas pedal, the acceleration will be simply wild, even the rear passengers need to buckle up, because they are simply thrown all over the cabin.
The gearbox... is a masterpiece, I have never seen clearer shifts. But when starting off, you can stall) The clutch is tight and you can accidentally release it too much.
The BMW M5 E39 was the only car in which I almost felt seasick; then I had an unpleasant sensation in my Adam’s apple, as if it had moved out of place)))
What surprised me in general was the fuel consumption; in full throttle/full brake mode, the M5 consumes no more than 19 liters of 98-grade gasoline. I expected 30-40 liters).
For many years, the BMW M5 E39 has become a dream for me. And I wouldn’t want to buy it, I want it to remain an ideal for me; suddenly, after using it for a long time, I will find many shortcomings and be disappointed...
The BMW M5 E39 was produced only as a sedan. The company chose not to produce the Touring version. Thanks to many Russian films, this model has found its fans in Russia, so much so that part of the production was moved to the Kaliningrad region.
Story
The history of the M version of the E39 begins back in 1998. This version received a more powerful engine compared to previous generations (400 horsepower). Previous generations of the M5 were assembled not on an assembly line, but by hand. The new generation of BMW M5 E39 is assembled in conventional production “by robot hands”.
The photo "BMW M5 E39" is presented below. You can see from the headlights that this version is a restyled one.
Technical characteristics of "BMW M5 E39"
In the table you will find basic information.
Review
The BMW M5 E39 is the fourth generation of the legendary M line. In 1998, it began its journey immediately after it was presented at the Geneva Motor Show. Over 4 years of production, more than 200 thousand copies of the BMW M5 E39 were produced. They were produced in three modifications: right-hand drive European, left-hand drive European, and American.
For the new generation - a new engine. A gasoline engine with a volume of 5000 cm 3 and a power of 400 horsepower was installed.
The transmission was a six-speed manual gearbox. The same box is present in the regular 540 “five”. But not quite the same. Since the engine has become more powerful, the transmission has been replenished with new parts.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is just under five seconds, and the top speed is 250 km/h. But with the use of chip tuning, this limitation can be removed, then the maximum speed will increase to almost 300 km/h.
As for the station wagon body, it was produced in only one copy, the BMW M5 E39 Touring, which was presented in 2010. For financial reasons, the company decided not to produce a station wagon version.
The suspension was almost entirely made of aluminum. It has been modified compared to the regular versions of the BMW fifth series. The ground clearance has been reduced by 2 centimeters. Also, to increase the rigidity and reliability of the suspension, the levers were made thicker. This gives reliability when driving on less than smooth roads.
The steering wheel has also changed compared to the fifth series. Controllability was increased thanks to its modernization. You can also use one of two steering modes that adjust its level of rigidity. They also added a “Sport” mode, which, after turning on the button, gave the car more power and, accordingly, speed.
The diameter of the rims, like all sports cars, is different. It's bigger in front. Also, the owners of the BMW M5 E39 praise its functionality, namely the presence of an anti-lock braking system.
After three years, the company decided to redesign the car, after which the design of the headlights was changed, namely, contouring of the headlights themselves was added. There are also parking sensors at the front. In the pre-restyling model they were installed only at the rear.
The central panel has also undergone changes. It had a built-in monitor with a navigation system. The car's audio system was also updated: two subwoofers were added, and the output sound power was increased.
After the lifting of the 250 km/h limit, the BMW M5 E39 becomes the fastest production sedan of that time.
The model range includes many modifications, such as:
- petrol: 520, 523, 525, 528, 530, 535, 540;
- diesel: 520, 525, 525td, 525tds, 530.
As with all BMW cars, the interior is at the highest level. The difference between the pre-restyling version and the restyled version is significant. In the old version, the monitor was slightly smaller and located to the right of the center panel. In the new version it is centered and has become a little larger.
The M5 had two interior trim options - wood or aluminum inserts. The restyled version used aluminum inserts. The steering wheel has also undergone changes, the inside of which has become slightly smaller and closer to the new versions of the BMW.
A distinctive feature of the M versions is the presence of M5 emblems throughout the cabin. They are located on the sills, below the central spoke of the steering wheel, and on the gear lever. When the monitor boots, a large M logo with three multi-colored stripes and “BMW” appears.
The seats are, of course, leather. At the moment, it is almost impossible to find cars with original seats in perfect condition.
BMW S62 engine
S62B50 engine characteristics
| Production | Dingolfing Plant |
| Engine make | S62 |
| Years of manufacture | 1998-2003 |
| Cylinder block material | aluminum |
| Supply system | injector |
| Type | V-shaped |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 89 |
| Cylinder diameter, mm | 94 |
| Compression ratio | 11.0 |
| Engine capacity, cc | 4941 |
| Engine power, hp/rpm | 400/6600 |
| Torque, Nm/rpm | 500/3800 |
| Fuel | 95 |
| Environmental standards | Euro 2 |
| Engine weight, kg | ~158 |
| Fuel consumption, l/100 km (for E39 M5) - city - track - mixed. |
21.1 9.8 13.9 |
| Oil consumption, g/1000 km | up to 1500 |
| Engine oil | 10W-60 |
| How much oil is in the engine, l | 6.5 |
| Oil change carried out, km | 7000-10000 |
| Engine operating temperature, degrees. | ~100 |
| Engine life, thousand km - according to the plant - on practice |
— 250+ |
| Tuning, hp — potential - without loss of resource |
600+ n.d. |
| The engine was installed | BMW M5 E39 BMW Z8 |
| Gearbox, 6 manual transmission | Getrag Type-D |
| Gear ratios, 6 manual transmission | 1 — 4.23
2 — 2.53 3 — 1.67 4 — 1.23 5 — 1.00 6 — 0.83 |
Reliability, problems and repair of the BMW M5 E39 S62 engine
The new BMW M5 E39, released in 1998 and replacing the M5 E34, increased in size on all fronts and, to achieve high dynamic performance, a straight six was not enough, especially since the BMW S38 was seriously outdated. It was decided to use an engine with a V8 configuration and took the allusil M62B44, from the existing BMW 540i E39, as the basis for the next M-engine.
The cylinder block was modified: the cylinder diameter was increased from 92 mm to 94 mm, a forged crankshaft was installed with a piston stroke of 89 mm (was 82.7 mm), connecting rod length was 141.5 mm, modified pistons with a compression ratio of 11.
On top, on three-layer cylinder head gaskets, are the S62B50 cylinder heads themselves (this is the name of the M5 E39 engine). They are a modified version of the M62B44. Compared to the M62, the S62 has enlarged intake and exhaust ports, uses new valve springs and lightweight valves: 35 mm intake, 30.5 mm exhaust. The camshafts on the M5 E39 have the following characteristics: phase 252/248, lift 10.3/10.2 mm. The VANOS variable valve timing system has been replaced by Double-VANOS (intake and exhaust camshafts). The M5 E39 uses hydraulic compensators and the valves do not require adjustment. Unlike the M62, the S62 uses a double-row timing chain.
The entire intake system has been redesigned: a large intake receiver has been used, and 8 throttle bodies have been used, one throttle valve for each cylinder. The diameter of each is 48 mm. Nozzle capacity - 257 cc. The exhaust system is modified, with two catalysts. Brains - Siemens MS S52.
All this made it possible to turn a regular 4.4 liter engine into an almost 5 liter one and increase the power from 286 hp. up to 400 hp at 6600 rpm.
The BMW S62 engine was installed in the E39 M5 and the rare Z8 roadster.
Production of the engine was discontinued in 2003, along with the end of production of the M5 in the E39 body, but after 2 years a new M5 E60 appeared, with an even more powerful S85B50.
Problems and disadvantages of BMW S62 engines
The main diseases of the BMW M5 E39 engines are the same as those of the M62B44. The differences lie in the shorter service life of the S62B50, due to the maximum cylinder diameter (the cylinder head gasket burns out) and the active use of the vehicle. In addition, the M5 E39 consumes oil in decent quantities, do not skimp on it and change it more often than expected (7000-10000 km is optimal). Also monitor the condition of the cooling system and pour high-quality 98 gasoline, then your S62 will drive as trouble-free as possible for an old car.
BMW M5 E39 engine tuning
S62 Atmo
You can increase the power of the BMW M5 E39 without using supercharging by purchasing a sports exhaust system without catalysts, with 4-2-1 manifolds, a cold intake and doing chip tuning. These small transformations will allow you to remove about 430 hp. The result can be improved with more efficient camshafts (272/272, lift 11.3/11.3), cylinder head porting with bore channels and valves enlarged by 1 mm. With the appropriate brain tuning, the S62's power will increase to 480+ hp. You can also install 52 mm throttle bodies, pistons with a compression ratio of 12.5 and the highest possible camshafts, but you can forget about comfortable operation.
S62 Compressor
As an alternative to a high-revving naturally aspirated engine, you can install a compressor and immediately get a lot of power. There are a lot of ready-made compressor kits for the BMW M5 E39, you need to buy one of them and put the motor on stock. The popular compressor kit ESS VT1 blows 0.4 bar and provides 560 hp. and 625 Nm. There are also more powerful kits (0.7 bar), but their cost is 2 times higher than ESS.