2002 BMW E39 M5 Review

[@thisisaname3510]

It's a really beautifully designed car. The way everything is so simplistically integrated, from the grill to doors all blend into almost the car version of a strawberry milkshake. When you look at any part of the car it seems that BMW took care into designing and making the car. It seems very comfortable and overall just an amazingly simple yet great design.

[@pochacco30]

It’s no wonder they nailed the look. The guy who designed the E90 and the Z3 Roadster also designed the E39. Joji Nagashima

[@sirmo667]

Beautifully designed until you get to the cup holders 😂

[@precisionfit941]

Thoroughly enjoyable to listen to you describe this car especially towards the end and the room/laptop comparison. I hankered after an E39 M5 for years while owning almost every single other variant of the E39 from petrols to diesels..V8 to straight 6. Finally managed to save a bit of spare cash around 5-6 years ago and bought one for what was then considered a lot (£6.5k) Uk pounds. Boy am I glad I did considering where they are at now as there's no way I would have been able to afford one now and would have been sad to let that boat sail by!..I also did the same with the E46 M3 and bought one when they were cheap so now am fully content in having what I consider to be the best of the M car's period. My M5 is Carbon black with Caramel and a few nice upgrades like brakes and suspension which totally take the already great chassis dynamics to another level. I plan on keeping it indefinitely and handing it down to my 16 year old son in the future providing the world has not been taken over by electric cars. The throttle/induction sound thanks to the ITB's and exhaust note are what make this M5 so addictive to drive..Thanks for such a great evaluation of what is an iconic legend of a car!

[@sishabadab6570]

The greatest in depth history of the E39 M5. Thanks.

[@brdllc]

Amazing review. I will not rest until I own this masterpiece

[@aidansmith6906]

This dude looks and sounds like an alternate-universe Mr. Regular Awesome review, way more detailed than just about anybody out there

[@atomicautomobile8537]

Thanks for making my day. Glad you liked it!

[@KelvinR79]

Excellent video!! As a big fan of the E39 I thought I knew a lot…but I’ve learned new details about the loved E39 M5. Thank you! Great job!

[@thatgmguy6055]

Also I’d like to say your probably my favorite automotive KZbinr despite your channel not being that big yet you provide great detail and history on every car. Also kinda the person that convinced me to buy two of my vehicles after watching your videos

[@JL-pb5ft]

Great video - I learned a lot about the e39 M5 specs and options between the years from watching. I have owned two e39 530s and I had the chance to drive a new e39 M5 when they first came out. While the 530s are great all around, the M5 was mind-blowing and unforgettable. So much so, that 21 years after that first experience I finally took the plunge to buy one. Super stoked!

[@Dbird613]

Congratulations! How do you like it so far?

[@JL-pb5ft]

It’s in transit from the seller at the moment so I can’t confirm what this specific one is like. That said, if it’s anything like the first one that I drive, it will be a blast. I have an e60 M5 which is great, but it’s pretty refined in most situations. I expect the e39 to be a bit more mental.

[@pochacco30]

Congrats! Now do yourself a favor and join the E39 M5 Owners group on Facebook. Thank me later.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

@@pochacco30 weird flex

[@4syth]

I've got 2 E39's, both Titanium Silver with all black leather and silver interior trim. 2002 M5 (86000km) and 2000 528i Msport (173000km) with ESS supercharger. I drive the 528i daily and the M5 a couple of times a month. I'm 39, I've owned 37 cars, my E39's will be with me until the end.

[@pochacco30]

I'll be keeping this one until I die, or until it gets totalled... hopefully neither :)

[@mikeonu1423]

Can you describe the differences in steering feel, v8 vs i6

[@PedroCruzPedro]

The most awaited video release of the year.

[@ImolaM5]

This video is awesome! I enjoyed the in-depth information about the cars mechanicals, options, driving experience, styling, and even mention of the owners. I own one and found this might be the best informational video about these cars.

[@rego007]

So good to see you back, man. As always, great video! This is definitely from back when BMWs were special; the sound of that engine is nothing short of magical. It's heartbreaking to see how things have changed and the visceral experience has become dumbed down since. After having four BMW in the past 12 years, the diluted experience drove me away from the brand....to Alfa Romeo, of all companies. The driving experience is what the "good old" BMWs used to be.

[@gabo12e30]

I have a 354 TiAg metallic exterior paint with Sport, full-leather Silverstone (O6SS) interior. I did not know they had separated the interior options after 2001. Mine is a 2000, so it makes sense to me now. Thanks for teaching me something about the e39 today!!!! Merry Christmas!

[@atomicautomobile8537]

Glad you liked that--I spent a bunch of time trying to figure out all the interior variations on this car and then once I made the video that section seemed a little excessive to me, so I'm glad someone appreciated it! Merry Christmas to you too.

[@gabo12e30]

@@atomicautomobile8537 I did. Great video. I loved the computer analogy at the end. Feel the same way. Next time I watch the video I'll do it in my M5!

[@TheKagedd]

Atomic Automobile is back in action. Hells yeah.

[@THEKOBE7612]

Simply one of best auto reviews ever! thank you

[@Dukesmobile]

The Return of The King!

[@nfavero]

Very good review. I have a nearly identical M5. I enjoyed how you described it's sensory inputs. It has a very nice sound system, but I usually prefer to just listen to the incredibly beautiful mechanical music the car makes.

[@francispowell1811]

The lack of servicing for the Getrag 420G (gearbox) currently is a real issue for long term ownership. It's amazing that the aftermarket hasn't reverse-engineered a rebuild solution, based on the number of 420Gs out there. Huge developing issue!!

[@pochacco30]

Diffsonline currently is still rebuilding these. They have a very good reputation, but they're NOT cheap. I just had on shipped and will be getting it installed next week.

[@francispowell1811]

Thank you,@@pochacco30 !! I'll check them out.

[@pdcichosz]

The best. most comprehensive nerd-out on e39 I've ever heard. Instant sub. One comment on the placement of buttons and switches from the e39 owner's perspective though ;) It's NOT ideal if you want to use the A/C panel and cupholders at the same time (and you do)... constant juggle, while the radio controls are sitting up there, untouched most of the time.

[@pochacco30]

Agreed. No self-respecting E39 owner should be using those factory cup holders😆

[@dankerman321]

The one thing I wish I had are the Style 65 wheels. Bought mine with a set of BBS's... they look great but just not the same.

[@bostonaudi]

There was a 2000 M5 for sale in the Savannah/Charleston area a year ago with BBS wheels, I wonder if same car. I passed on it because original wheels missing.

[@BernonCars]

I’ve missed your videos!

[@atomicautomobile8537]

Glad to be back!

[@npharkes]

Stock exhaust on this beauty? Sound AMAZING! Watched ever 2901 second :) Fantastic!

[@pochacco30]

When this was filmed it had a muffler delete, the rest of the intake and exhaust was stock. The beauty shots featured in this review were taken after some upgrades, including Dinan exhaust and front strut tower brace. The car now also has Dinan intake and rear sway bar and the list of Dinan parts hopefully will grow in the near future.

[@npharkes]

@@pochacco30 so just to make sure I understand that correctly. An "axle back delete"?

[@pochacco30]

@@npharkes , yes, only the mufflers were removed and replaced with just tips. The stock cat section and stock resonators are still in place.

[@Kryojenix]

32:10 _Which_ E39 M5 facebook group? I guess this has succeeded Gustav's M5Board, though that still persists in the hands of new owners.

[@pochacco30]

E39 M5 Owners group, only the best car group on FaceBook. 😁

[@bryanjones4987]

That's the most beautiful car ( and colour, ) I've ever seen in my life. 💖💖💖🔥

[@pochacco30]

Why thank you! Can't say I would choose silver over LeMans Blue or Imola Red, but silver is a very safe color and suits the E39 well. I also like that it's the same colour used in The Hire commercial with Madonna.

[@bryanjones4987]

@@pochacco30 I bought an E39 525i ( several years ago, ) .... Oh, how I miss that car... So many compliments. ☺️💖💖💖

[@NewDesignVinylGraphics]

Remember seen one for sale for like $11k in ontario canada a few years ago.. good luck getting one for under 25k now

[@sidbates3423]

I’m a owner of a used E39 2001 530i and who ever owned this car babied it, this car is super quick and fast, the interior is impeccable with the all tan seats. The previous owner upgraded the steering wheel with the M5 hell he did a whole M5 upgrade even the suspension however it’s an automatic. It’s got some cosmetic flaws but that engine and transmission is bullet proof. Now I need to join a community because I need to find deals on the angel head lights, guys I love the way this car handles and drive. I had a Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi and this car drives better it feels like a tight feeling sports car with mad traction so ok guys help me out and give me some tips she’s got a lot of miles but you wouldn’t be able to tell it

[@gazzoob6953]

This is fantastic. Thank you!

[@javierjimenez3627]

Being a BMW tech between late 90s and late 2000's should be amazing

[@Barfly76]

Dang. If only they’d found a way to put the aluminum front sub frame and rack and pinion in there…..wonder if anyone has modified one of these to do it?

[@bostonaudi]

Not possible due to the engine’s size. As long as the front end parts are kept tight it steers fine.

[@MrDethhollow]

I've seen an LS swapped car with the aluminum subframe and steering rack.

[@BreakStuffClub]

I own one and don't understand why everyone hates on the steering, in sport mode it's not bad at all. If you like the car and haven't driven one before I wouldn't write it off because of the steering.

[@Barfly76]

@@BreakStuffClub it’s not awful. But would have been that much better with the Rack.

[@drewdavis239]

it Will fit. dont believe the nay sayers ....

[@universalcitizen7544]

4-door perfection, BMW perfection!

[@LSmiata]

Love all M5's Drive an E60....Best of the last and still a TRUE M car. New hot block turbos can kiss my shinny metal a$$.

[@rbarnard264]

I’m looking at buying one next week and with your detailed understanding of these cars would love to have some information about what I should be looking for. I also live in High Point, North Carolina, where it looks like this was filmed. Any help would be appreciated. Cheers.

[@gk-m5]

E34 SQUAD!!!!!🤪🤪🤪🤪🔥 E39 M5 Is cool too......

[@WookieDrives]

He's back from the dead!

[@atomicautomobile8537]

Yeah man long year. Left Duke last December, sold my house up there, moved back to Atlanta for a job, bought a house down here that needed a ton of work and put all my free time into it, then got another job (still down here) in July, so yeah just busy. I filmed this car in like October 2020 I think lol.

[@pochacco30]

@@atomicautomobile8537 October 24, 2020 to be exact. 😎

[@WookieDrives]

@@atomicautomobile8537 I completely understand, 2020 was was rough on everyone. Just glad to see you're back.

[@skazariants]

What a beautiful car and a charm to drive too!

[@louis-markqabazi5696]

Beautiful!

[@racedriver777]

AWESOME video thanks alot :)

[@nocturnal-chou]

Timeless design

[@larrycampbell2500]

The (5) is upside down?

[@MRM5J]

I'm really impressed nobody stole the camera set up while filming

[@pochacco30]

In most of those shots I was standing by the camera while he was driving.

[@Chevybels]

I love e39 ❤️

[@kitvexed8229]

i dont agree about the wheels.. the rears weigh 26lbs and the fronts weigh 24lbs. that leaves A LOT of room for improvement. i bought a set of APEX 18X9.5 ET22 that weigh 19lbs ea. beyond the weight savings, the front grip is noticeably increased by running 9.5" vs 8" wheels. you can now also rotate your tires and get more life out of them by running a square set-up.

[@rbarnard264]

Do you still have the M5? Are you in HP?

[@chiefeng4451]

Hey, he’s back!

[@maxsmirnik9032]

I prefer pre-facelift head lights.

[@zemiorka]

Jesus!! I just drunk every words like some french Chateau Margaux red wine.❤

[@Nelsonvisions]

Sometimes I can't believe I actually own one.

[@peka9117]

I have 530i M-Sport. 50Kmiles. Mint 👊 by this color.

[@pochacco30]

You have a very special car. I wish mine had the rack and pinion steering that your car has. Keep enjoying it!

[@kcw9313]

for all that e39 m5 pontification, you have a bad shifter habit. only put on hand on shifter when shifting.

[@wensjoe80]

E28 M5❤

[@thatgmguy6055]

Plot twist I supercharged my ls430 and made it handle even better much more power a lot faster wile still being extremely smooth and comfortable but if I want to go fast I put my foot down and hear a little supercharger wine and a bit of exhaust

[@atomicautomobile8537]

With what supercharger?

[@thatgmguy6055]

@@atomicautomobile8537 m112 from a terminator cobra the way the car applies power is still great just amplified

[@eli7693]

Mega.

[@larrycampbell2500]

The five, correct my bad

[@pochacco30]

I did my best to install the trunk badge as accurately as possible based on guidelines I found online. But there are a surprising number M5 badges where the 5 was accidentally installed upside down.

[@譚坤治]

美型 運動 版 😊 M5 ..400匹馬力 純手排 ..

[@drewdavis239]

that car has the euro dash. thats not how it usually is. usually bloated knee padding in america

[@pochacco30]

You are correct sir. Installed it myself. One of my favorite retrofits.

[@joesmith9216]

early 2000's BMW's are god, I am OCD with the e83 x3's, they still look better than the new x3's and all they did with the new one was copy the e83, many modern LED touches are garbage too, the new taillights on the new x3's look like a childs toy.

[@Snailmailtrucker]

This clown at 4:27 was riding by himself wearing a friggin mask !

[@pochacco30]

This was filmed last year in the middle of the pandemic well before COVID vaccines were available. He wore a mask out of respect for me because he knew my wife’s immunocompromised. I actually feel bad now that he did wear a mask for me, but I thought it was nice of him to take that it extra step of precaution even though it was probably not necessary. I don’t blame him for taking it off later in the video.

[@atomicautomobile8537]

Don't feel bad Mark lol. I could delete this comment if it bothered me.

[@slimdugger99]

Better safe than sorry. I wear a mask now everywhere, partially because I forget that I’ve got it on, and when I realize that I’m alone in my car, keep it on anyway. Who’s it bothering, not me.

[@cuzzman01]

The Cup Holders these come with are terrible but we have fixed that with our retrofit E39 Cup Holder, available here>trickbits.com.au/products/bmw-e39-storage-box-cup-holder