Why The BMW E39 5 Series Was SO Far Ahead Of Its Competitors - BMW 535i

[@m10199]

This is so accurate. I had a manual late model manual 525i, poverty spec. First car bought with my own money - got it 10 years old for £1,900 when I was about 25, with 130k miles. Friends thought I was mad. Kept it nine years. Took it across Europe, massively overloaded it, drove it too fast, did all the routine servicing myself, even took it on a track day and nothing serious ever went seriously wrong! Now I have an SL500 - which I love - yet I still miss the E39!

[@m10199]

I should add some real E39 nerdery. Due to engine bay configuration, the V8s had recirculating ball steering, while the straight sixes had rack-and-pinion, which was much more praised. Might explain the video comment on the steering!

[@gregorykulinski2186]

Did it broke in time of ownership ?

[@EinKerl3554]

I had one, the e39 with rack and pinion was the better chassis but I've always felt the e34 was the better car.

[@tonycamplin8607]

@@m10199 He says this in the video.

[@jimmynickelz]

Same. Only major problem was the strut tower snapped and I found out that was a factory recall. I had the 5 speed 528i and it was definitely one of the most reliable, fun, and beautiful cars I've owned. Also, one of the slowest.

[@grahamsalmons2027]

My mother bought the 540i. It was the first German car she bought and it was like having a Bentley to us - it was so luxurious, well made and designed we’d never seen anything like it. It had a distinctive interior smell that I can remember today - something about the leathers. It was fabulous and she loved it.

[@Ash-928]

She had good taste.

[@bilteman_hukkaportti]

That 90’s bmw interior smell actually come from inside the seats

[@Sankara-Setu-Mutanda-75]

Nice taste!

[@BirdKidBeef]

@@bilteman_hukkaportti isn’t it the plastic lining or adhesive under the fabrics on everything

[@casinokam2695]

@@BirdKidBeefI think it’s the sound deafening material but I could be thinking of another vehicle

[@marks-the-spot]

Here in the America they sold the E39 V8 as the 540i. A friend had one and it was a great touring car. I owned an E90 for several years. It drove well enough but it was not as nice looking as the E46 I had previously. I totally agree with you that E39/E46 was peak BMW design. I no longer view BMWs as objects of desire.

[@dlevi67]

There were two V8s in Europe - the smaller 535 and the 540.

[@marks-the-spot]

@@dlevi67 Interesting. Our 535 was only sold with an inline-6.

[@dlevi67]

@@marks-the-spot I think that was on the E60/F10 cars; there wasn't a 535 E39 in the USA/Canada at all. Bit ironic that the "V8" 535 was limited to Europe, considering the 'American' image of V8s...

[@chriswilson1853]

​@@marks-the-spotThe older E34 535i was a straight 6 but the 530i was a V8. Odd I know!

[@marks-the-spot]

@@dlevi67 My mistake, you are correct. The 535 was the E60 in the US.

[@giantclam1822]

2003 530i. The first real brand new car I ever bought...Still have it. Still a head turner.

[@indotube8125]

Huge servuce cost and fragile??

[@giantclam1822]

@@indotube8125 You know going into it it needs to be maintained...today I changed my Mass Air Flow, and disa. Took me 45 minutes as I was being super careful.....thermostat next month and hoses and belts........I dont care cause I can balance a coin on my motor.

[@captainLoknar]

really wish I would get a 530i someday. vvery rare... 528 for now. Got rid of a 335i to have this cheaper, better. bliss

[@captainLoknar]

@@giantclam1822 your steering wheel is on the WRONG SIDE! lol

[@chriswallace9113]

My first BMW was a 2003 530i 5-speed. I’ve driven BMW ever since. 335i coupe, M3, M5, 335i sedan, 435i M-Sport.

[@spadecat]

Just picked up a 2001 530i manual with 150k miles and it is hands down best overall car I ever owned. Power everything, sunroof, heated seats and excellent stereo all in working order. Dinan chip and Bilstein performance shocks also make this beauty a real driver's car to boot.

[@PJD_55]

I had the exact same model and year in Orient Blue Metallic with M Sport wheels and steering wheel. Absolutely loved that car. Was very sad to see it go when it had to. Best car I’ve ever owned.

[@exoroxx]

We had one of the first 530i ever made in Glacier Green metallic with manual gearbox, Xenon, M steering wheel, automatic AC and Individual white indicators - and almost nothing else. It was a pure driving machine - comfortable, but yet sporty enough. But VANOS was in poor condition, so under 3000 rpm on the clock it wasn't that powerful. I loved that car anyway.

[@freerkderuiter8822]

My dad (sadly he passed away in 2020) had one of these. It was his favorite car he ever owned and he kept it for over 10 years. Not a single problem in that time. I drove it a lot too, sometimes for 1,200 kilometers on a single day. If I had to pick a car for long distance traveling at speed with reasonable economy I still would take an E39 530D over anything else on sale today. I've driven most E39 models apart from the 520D. I agree on the E39 M5. It's great, but ultimately it can't disguise its weight. I'd look for an E46 M3 instead. One of my former colleagues owned old Jags and Volvos and wanted a car more suitable for daily driving. She was not into BMW's at all, but I persuaded her. I found a 10 year old E39 540i for her with all the bells and whistles. She drives that car to this day and doesn't consider buying anything else. That's how good it is.

[@TheFatAndTheFurious]

What should I look for / look out for if buying one of these? (aside from the obvious stuff, low-ish mileage (I guess that'd be anything under 90k, lol), if any exist at reasonable prices) and full service history?

[@captainLoknar]

this was the peak car. and it can be configured in many ways there will never be anything this good ever again. I hope to buy a second one someday with a 530 engine and sunroof but it's getting rare! not interested in m5 except exteriors. my 528 is already reasonably powerful. And it's LPG - it's as cheap as an electric car to run - with 7% of the sticker price

[@johnj3577]

I've always gone through a lot of cars, often loving them initially but then getting bored of them quickly or irritated by their shortcomings. I never owned anything for longer than 2, maybe 3 years. Then I bought an E39 540i. I kept it for 16 years and drove it over 100,000 miles in that time. I bought other cars to replace it, but then sold them instead and kept the BMW. It was perfect, brilliant at everything. Nothing ever irritated, but it was never boring. It felt solid, dependable, comfortable, comforting, quiet, refined, was effortless on long drives, could cross continents without raising any sweat and with no drama, but was very very quick when needed and handled plenty good enough for some fun too. As Jeremy Clarkson once said about one, its like your best mate. Always there for you through everything. I sold mine about 4 yrs ago now and I don't think I'll ever be able to replace it, unless of course, I find another one......

[@THE-BUNKEN-DRUM]

I totally get it, mate. I too have owned a lot of cars over the years, but my current E39 530i manual is the only 1 that's really got under my skin. I feel the exact same way in regards to the other cars I've owned with their irritating "quirks & features," but when it comes to my E39 there's nothing I don't like about it. Everything from her looks, her interior & the way she drives is all completely flawless. (Don't tell wor lass, about this, she'll think I'm having an affair). 😉

[@TheFatAndTheFurious]

How much did you sell it for?

[@captainLoknar]

it's a really cool story! unless these cars are ruined by mods they are the best I'm lucky enough some dude had changed the lower springs, 20" wheels on his e39 and sold it because the family preferred the e60 I took her to a better place restored original coils and wheels. it's a beauty! can drive me 1000km and not hurt my back

[@andrewmorton3177]

You’re absolutely spot on! I’ve loved BMW’s ever since being taken out in a m8’s dad’s brand new e34 525i sport as a 15 year old back in 1991, that day I promised myself I’d drive a 5 series. In 2004 I bought myself a wonderful e39 530i msport the best all round model in my opinion. Sold it in 2008 for an e60 535d, after that came an f10 520d & I’m currently running an f31 335d msport touring that I’ve had for 6 years now. However that’s as new as I’m going to go, I’ve fall out of love with the new models & now the plan is to keep the 335d as a daily & buy myself the best e39 530i msport I can find to have as a toy & replace the car that I never should’ve sold in the first place.

[@Khannonball]

Was surprised to see the car in the thumbnail is actually my car. The picture is some years ago. it now needs alittle resto but still in great condition. It's 530i auto, all original with 86k miles and drives amazing. Great video, was considering selling it.

[@michaelgill494]

l totally agree i have a 2005 E46 330ci ...utterly magic coupe .. i love driving it even in heavy traffic is just PERFECT....

[@N1120A]

The 540i with the 6 speed was basically an M5 Lite. That car was an absolute stealth monster .

[@jobser2k977]

My parents bought a 1 year old 523i in 2000. At that time the car was beautiful, hardly any car could match its looks. I later bought the car from them and have owned it for over 16 years now. Even today the car has a special driving experience, you feel higher quality, really premium when you drive the vehicle. Since I can repair a lot of things myself and he runs on LPG, the costs are limited. With modern lights, the car still looks beautiful today.

[@captainLoknar]

Yo also on LPG here. I run VPower Shell sometimes just to be safe but it's so nice and cheap to run so far with a few minor updates mostly following M5 style and an android radio, my wife is totally enjoying the car that's as old as her. At first she didn't like the rear but changing to clears with LED it looks like a timeless classic. And it's so comfortable compare to all the ridiculous SUVs and chinese EV's everywhere around us...

[@contributor7219]

We still own two E39 V8s, an M5 and a 540i Sport manual. My sister had an E39 530i for many years too. I have to say that despite the V8s steering feel being slightly dead 'on centre', I prefer the way that BMWs recirculating ball with auto lash adjustment quickens off centre. When cruising on the open road the V8s allow for slight on centre corrections without a 'sneeze factor' (and you need it on poor roads with 235s on the front) whereas I found the rack and pinion in my sister's car to be pretty dead and lifeless across the lock. Each to their own, but for me I like the recirculating ball on the V8s.

[@MrToranaGuy]

I've heard people say it wasn't only packaging reasons the v8's kept the old steering box in the e39 v8, but the feel of the steering. Owning a 96 model 535i myself, I can sure see the packaging reasons why they kept the old steering box. To be honest, I reckon it feels better than a number of car's of the same era that I have driven, or that I own, that have rack & pinion steering systems.

[@christopherkelly577]

It was and remains a fine machine indeed. Looks have aged tremendously well. Big old seven series from that era also still look the part I reckon.

[@dennisgoqwana3579]

The E39 535i was just right, just enough power from the 3.5 V8. Less power than the 540i and more power than the 528i, which puts it in the right place for someone who is looking for a combination of refinement, power and fuel economy. The sad thing is that we never got it (535i) in South Africa. The '35i' (M62B35) engine was ONLY available on the e38 735i.

[@captainLoknar]

@@dennisgoqwana3579 M62B35 is worst of both worlds engine. if you want a 8 it's better to get the 540. im guessing 535 was used to enter a specific tax bracket or fill a euro standard for fuel economy - the ideal engine developped by the engineers without restrictions is the 540

[@jamescario2292]

I’ve had my 528i e39 for 5 years, over 180k on the thing, and she runs like a dream. My only car, my daily, my project. If you take care of her she will take care of you and then some, never will I give up my E39, the smaller 6 cylinder is pretty good on gas. She’s cranked everytime and never left me stranded, a car I’ll stand by everytime

[@eze8970]

Thanks Jack! I think the other thing is that when this was released, the Engineers who designed them wanted to be proud of what they'd done, it was a statement to their skill, before the Accountants came along & started dictating the specifications. A good car, much missed it seems! 🙏🙏

[@mikaeljonsson4686]

Or designers on drugs doing the newest kidney grills... 😳😳😳😱🤢🤮 Just horrible.. the E39 is such a classic beautiful, good car!

[@MrManBuzz]

​@@mikaeljonsson4686 They're being told to make something loud and that makes a statement. That's what the Chinese and Indian markets want. Something to flaunt and show off wealth and status. To European and North American tastes, that isn't so well appreciated, but capitalism will be capitalism and they'll go where the money is.

[@assininecomment1630]

I wouldn't underestimate Murrrcans,@@MrManBuzz. There's probably still plenty of U.S. buyers who have little interest in subtlety or refined automotive design. After all, large, shiny, gauche, tacky styling features were invented by them! These features are still favoured by enough of them, that BMW is prepared to dish up the tacky garbage, if it means sales in their biggest market.

[@Bubbaburp]

Sure sure. They used to be artisans who cared more about the craft than making money. Yawn.

[@susannero6401]

I'm showing my age, but IMO the peak era for BMW was in the late '80's -- second gen 3 and 5 series (E30 and E28). I'm even tempted to go even further back, to the 1970's 2002's, E3's and E9's. That's when BMW's were mechanically bulletproof, high quality, and had real style.

[@johnpearson492]

My family is massively in love with this generation of BMWs. My parents have had 1 of 2 e38 740iLs continuously for the last 22 years. My brother and I have owned together, an e39 M5, and still own an e36 M3 as a daily and an e36 328is as a project car. They are just brilliant vehicles! The V8s are wonderful, the I6s are epic.

[@stoyantenev7819]

Did you know that actualy e38, e39, e53 share a common platform for electronics, suspension setups, engine lines ? Its basically the same generation of platforms :)

[@johnpearson492]

@@stoyantenev7819 Yep, BMW had been doing that forever and still does it today.

[@alsanchez5038]

Had a 535i as my second car in 2007 and wil never forget it.

[@heracliosanchez7254]

I was the happy owner of a gorgeous M5 E39. There's no single day I regret selling it back in the day. It was the perfect balanced car (other than fuel economy, that is)

[@722garage9]

I have a 520i Touring. It’s every car I ever want. Practical load lugged, family vehicle and a performance car when I want it. The build quality is unreal. Mine has 329,000km from new. The fit and finish is as it left the factory. I have a 2017 VW and it’s not even close in terms of quality. You’re right. It won’t be repeated again. Great film.

[@kiwiwifi]

I rolled one at 120 MPh. All tge rolls! End over end and barrel too. Upon later inspection, 3 out of the 4 doors opened freely. The car saved my life. It was the fire that burnt my laptop and cellphone.

[@tomrasmussen110]

Here is the USA I owned a 1997 BMW 540 / 6-speed manual. Motor Trend Car of the Year. I added a micro-chip in the engine management to increase HP to 300. GREAT touring car. Very tight around freeway exit ramps. I LOVE old school BMW's.

[@captainLoknar]

the balancing and handling is just spot on

[@vwstormchaser7985]

I had a 2003 M Sport 540i Touring. It was an exocet of a car! I remember laughing my head off whilst driving at 150mph as it was just so damn capable and effortless. Designed for derestricted autobarns. Brilliant gearbox which adapted to your driving style. I only sold it when I needed more space and got a V8 XC90 instead.

[@kimmorgan379]

I spent some time in the 530D E39 and it was mind-blowing. The 0-60 wasn't far behind the petrol equivalent, but it could do twice the mpg and it was such a fun car to drive. The torque and the gearbox made for an epic mile-muncher that could give you great driving pleasure on a good road. Possibly one of the most complete all-round car packages I've driven.

[@jimtaylor431]

The economy on the 530D, especially in manual form, is hard to believe given the heft of the car and the displacement of the engine. It's awesome.

[@kimmorgan379]

@@jimtaylor431 True, but that torquey motor was a perfect match for the auto box. Loved that car...

[@frankreynolds4547]

Totally agree! I got an x5 petrol to avoid the congestion charges, but driving the e39 is first choice if I can avoid the city centre.

[@Jo-kf3iv]

Just got my new (for me) e39 525i for just £1,100 (yes its a cat S) structural but repaired and you dont even notice a single thing. Not only are they reliable but they are tanks and safe as hell. I think it got a cat s as value of car was not worth repair for its age but if you shop around and dont mind bits and bobs / cats then you can get a whole lot of car for not much money.

[@myszastamysz]

By far my favourite 5 series ever. I love the way it looks, probably something to do with me growing up in the 90's, fell in love with it playing NFS III hot pursuit. Now in my mid 30's I still never owned one, but I swear one day I will get me an M5.

[@lamirizcoree3596]

Even a 530d or 528i is enough to got fun and thrill , you can still find cheap ones

[@EngineerLewis]

I had a 2000 X 530i touring, inline 6 cylinder with the autobox and loved it. The engine was so smooth and the drive compelling. I ran it on LPG to help with the cost of fuel but still a great drive and I sold it with 180,000 miles on the clock.

[@SoniaInternational]

Great car. Thanks for sharing. The 6 cylinder here in the US run forever, while the v8s seem to need more care. A classic, timeless model.

[@jonntischnabel]

I bought an e39 535i manual, with 106k, back in 2009 for £1050! Absolutely brilliant, wish I'd never sold it (like so many cars). Btw, the saab is called a 9-5 not a 925.

[@N1120A]

Man, I bet it is worth 3-4 times that now

[@roelandl.c.heijting4193]

I drove a 530D touring, fully equipped, electric rear door, electric towing hook, massaging seats, etc. They had it all! It truly was the best BMW ever build. Although I enjoyed all newer models after that, the build quality has never been that thorough again. Also remember the double wipers, when you took of the mounted wiper, it had the build in emergency wiper blades. And the flashlight in the glovebox. I could go on for hours. But it also had a few downsides. Remember the digital display in the cluster. They always died slowly, pixel by pixel. Or the flimsy cup holders right under the climate sensors, that when you put a hot coffee in them, the climate control started to blow cold air into the cabin, also when it was freezing outside! But I would take this car back today if could… thanks for the nice review.

[@nialltd]

Still have my 2002 m sport auto e39 530D imola red , bought it back in 2007 got it remapped on a roaling road years back to 225 bhp , car goes very well for such a heavy sturdy car , when it’s washed and waxed it still turns heads to this day

[@davidcoleman1291]

I own a 2003 530i (5-speed) with 212,000 miles. It's a daily driver and still have no problem with a 6 hour drive. Great car with superb handling. I occasionally get offers, usually from younger guys. Probably on of the best BMWs ever built.

[@vgrylls]

My E39 530D Touring was simply the best car I have ever had. It drove like a dream. More importantly it saved the life of myself and my three children when an out-out -of-control articulated truck hit us on the AI. The fire brigade officer who attended the accident said that we were lucky to be in that model of car which was one of the strongest ever built. 🙏

[@lewis72]

I had an E39 528i from '07 to 2010. I changed it for a manual E60 530i. I missed having an E39 so much I bought an E39 M5 as well a year late. Still have both. That auto gearbox is the ZF 5HP20, same as used in Jags at the time. IMO, a manual 530i Sport is the one to have, then a manual 525i. Even the 2.2 520i gets most of the E39 appeal. The auto 535i auto is probably near the bottom of the variants to have - V8 consumption, straight-six performance. E60 is better in some ways than the E39: + Lower wind noise. + 6-speed manuals. + Higher-output petrols on facelift E60s + Still looks modern (subjective, I know). + Better sounds system (M5's sound system is terrible. Must've used Matsui). + Less prone to rust (from my experience). Worse in others: - Worse interior quality and style. - Lower like-for-like spec (no interior boot release, no glovebox torch, no his 'n hers temp control as std). - iDrive is terrible; requires more operations to change from CD to FM radio (E39 is one button push. E60 is 1 push-down, two up, two clicks left, one push). I may add to these as I think of more !

[@nsgtampa]

I had several E39’s - a 540i sport auto, later a 528i manual - loved each in its’ own way, but not enough legroom in the back seat, and with the manual 5 speed, engine RPMs were irritatingly high at cruise in the 80+ mph range. The power of the V8 was awesome but the six is a lot more reliable and economical to keep running. Eventually bought a 740i for the legroom; awesome car overall, but hated the automatic. Some people have converted a 740i to six speed manual, which is the very best. Ended up buying an E60 530i manual 6 speed, love the extra gear ratio, and the fact that it has the handling of a 5 series, the reliability of the tried and true M54 six, and has more rear seat legroom than the E39, in fact, it has about as much as the E38 I had. Still my daily driver right now, I need the room inside, and the 7 was just so much more fuel and maintenance… but the driving experience is not as pure as the E39. Seems like the best fuel economy I get from the E60 530i is about 17-18 mpg; my memory is that the E39 528i was giving me high 20s mpg. They never sold E39 diesel in USA, I wish I could import one.

[@tonybetts1195]

I had an E39 540i for ten years. I loved this car so much. I had stage 1 race cams in it and 310 bhp. The only thing that I felt let down the E39 V8's was the steering. But it was an amazing car even though my regular average fuel consumption was 14.9 mpg

[@tonybetts1195]

@Anthony Galloni Lots more power at the top end of rev range. I drove her very hard on occasions, race with Ferrari F355 etc, and she could really hold her own

[@volkanyalim-b5l]

Very well said , I have a E39 540i sport 6 speed manual for the last 9 years and it is an amazing car it does have a heart and soul and some more.

[@richsackett3423]

As a lifelong SAAb owner (had 9, currently a 01 Viggen convertible which is faster than the car you are testing), it is my pleasure to inform you the pronunciation of 9-5 is "nine five" and 9-3, "nine three". Almost to 100k! You consistently have one of the best automotive video comments sections of all automotive journalists.

[@jaskajokunen3716]

I was thinking about buying a saab 9-3 aero 2.8t but ended up with 330hp volvo s60 t5

[@richsackett3423]

@@jaskajokunen3716 S60s are fantastic and reliable cars. I put one together and it was a great girlfriend car for 7 years.

[@davidrichardson6528]

​@@richsackett3423 isn't a t60 a SUV?

[@rossbethell4187]

I’ve had more c900s than you’ve had Saabs @richsackett3423. I’ve had three 9000s, 2 9-3s (both OG Aero) and a couple of 9-5s, both airflow and Aero. I still own a 1993 900T16S convertible. I love Saabs. But the e39 is better in my opinion, especially compared to a 9-5! Unfortunately I’m not in an e39 now but an e60 and that’s better than any saab too.

[@Alltracavenger]

The late 1980s to the early 2000s were the absolute best period for BMWs. I still vividly remember being in high school when my mom pulled out of the driveway in her humdrum Subaru Legacy and coming back in a brand new silver Z3 2.8, complete with hardtop. Riding to school in that car was an absolute special occasion; I insisted on learning to drive manual so I could get a chance at driving that car. Unfortunately I drove it all of twice before it had to go; my siblings started having kids and she needed a larger vehicle. She just about cried when she traded it in; it was by far her favorite car. Last year I bought an almost identical 2001 Z3 3.0 complete with hardtop so we could go out on road trips and make memories. I've owned some impressive cars including an AE86, an MR2 Turbo, two Celica GT-Fours, an Audi 200 Quattro 20v, an E34 540i/6, and others, but the combination of nostalgia and fun to drive has put the Z3 near the top of my list of favorite cars.

[@mullman]

I ordered a factory fresh 2000 E39 540i6 with all the M Sport goodies. I couldn’t afford a M5 at the time and hands down it was the best car I’ve ever owned. Still have the window sticker but wish I still had the car.

[@seldom_seen_kid]

Totally agree. Had a 2001 E39 530d Sport in Topaz blue and its a car I still think about regularly.

[@johnmitchell2269]

BMW in the late 90's early 00's E46 - In coupe form, imo by far the best looking car during the time and one of the best looking of all time. My favourite of all the 3 series. The proportions are spot on for a 3 series. Not too small like the E30's but also not too big like the F30's. E39 - IMO one of the best looking 4 door saloon cars of all time. My favourite of all the 5 series. You can tell a lot of effort and passion went into these cars from the factory. E38 - The only seven series I like. Somehow, even though they are so large, BMW managed to make them look sporty. The indestructible, remote controlled e38 used in the film Tomorrow Never Dies. Very cool.

[@MariyanTsonev]

Bought a 528i manual 5 years ago. I was 1 year old when the E39 model came in and 23 when I bought mine. I sometimes wish I was older so I could get it while it was newer. Mine is with almost 400 000km and still feels quick, has an Eisennman exhaust unit and sounds absolutely amazing, absolute joy to listen to the straight 6 M52. I fitted LSD diff, so it's quite capable in winter as well, and quite fun to drive sideways. Comfort is great, looks are just timeless, this car is a true masterpiece. Now, with 23 years on the clock, it starts to have problems more often, but hey, what other 20+ years car can handle 15-20km distance driven floored like it's a walk in the park? I love it, can easily keep it for the next 30 years to come!

[@alexcornofficial]

Sound like you are from sweden mate, tell me if im wrong?

[@MariyanTsonev]

@@alexcornofficial You are wrong :D

[@mariopizzamanmario8563]

My choice was between the E39 or the Jaguar S-type. The Jag it was, and never regretted it. But, can appreciate!

[@Kenmori00]

It was indeed peak BMW. The style, proportions, feel of the drive was simply perfect. Ty for a great breakdown!

[@aceace5457]

my son bought his 525i when he was 23 and cant get rid of it thats how good they are even stripped the whole engine and repaired it got alloys and suspension and done the body work , whatsmore its only done 120k . what a superb machine.

[@richardfelton4292]

I’ve owned a 530i for the last 6 years. Currently at 135k miles. It has cost on average about £600 a year in maintenance except this year at £1,200. Apart from fuel consumption it’s the perfect every day car,;fun to drive, comfortable and solid. I have no thoughts on a replacement.

[@ianferguson1304]

Only just watched this video for the first time. I had a 535i bought new in 1997. The V8's were meant to handle worse because of the extra weight of the engine and you are correct they didn't have enough room for rack and pinion steering. Size wise they were about the size of a modern 3 series so easy to place on the road. All in all a great car. I did buy an E55 after which was epic but felt big by comparison on narrow roads.

[@duffieldjunction6243]

my parents have always had e39s for my whole life, the I6 engines are super smooth and reliable and I find the interior such a lovely place to be

[@stefansattele4148]

I can only agree. I had an E34 525 and later on an E39 523. While the E34 was "archaic" in the way it felt (mostly because of the sport suspension the preowner fitted in), the E39 gave me the feeling of a "2nd skin". Every knob and button was in the right place, everything was thought through without being overdone and it was just fun to drive! Compared to later models those still had "a soul" while newer 3 and 5 series just feel like heartless machines.

[@ianelliott229]

I adored my E39. So refined and both comfortable and sporty. It felt special which my later BMWs never did - and it saved my life when, on a single carriage way road, an on coming car tried to overtake; head on smash with a closing speed of 100mph.

[@mattwarren69]

I concur... I have an E39 530i agean individual edition which Ive had for 8 years plus now. I never want to sell it. As you hit the nail on the head with these excellent BMW's they are a brilliant all rounder. No box was left un-ticked with these gems

[@zeffedee]

“Their taste is somewhat different”. That’s a very nice way to put it, kudos to you

[@Icecube095]

I grew up on the backseat of a late '90s BMW e39 523i, that my grandpa owned brand new back then - it was such an awesome car and I remember my grandpa smoking several Mercs on the Autobahn in the early 2000s haha

[@PaladinJenkis]

The E39 is a car which I always adored, I'd really like to get one and start restoring it. This video was brilliant, this gentleman eloquently described what's currently wrong with BMW and how the E46, E39, E90 are the best models ever made. Such a great video!

[@simonh870]

I had the 528i in manual form, and my dad had the 540i with auto. Brilliant cars. I recognise those roads, they are not far from where I live.

[@7777Robo]

Thank you very much. I am driving one for 17 years. It is very good car.

[@sideshowbob32]

Best car out of 30+ I've owned. 540i individual, comfort seats, coms pack so had the old school phone in centre console, sat nav even a TV! Extended leather was lovely, was a bugger to sell though, was probably down to 2 tone aubergine and champagne leather haha, X59EBL what a drive.

[@pugs1377]

I have an 03 540 with a manual trans and a 16 x5 50 I. I drive the e39 every chance I can. Even tho it's 20 years old the quality still beats all but a few modern cars. The e39 is truly the best sedan they have ever made

[@rvr4617]

Absolutely love my recently purchased 540i touring. The perfect car, really. In every way. And on long trips quite economical, did 9km/l on my last 1000km trip. Not bad at all for a 1700kg car with 4.4 v8! My ‘work-car’ is a 2024 Mercedes c300e and even though it’s nice, it is so evident how much character and feel cars have lost over the years.

[@jmy6050]

I have the Saab 9000 aero. Can't beat it for handling and performance as a classic car. I also own the E39, and love driving it. It's just a cool looking car, reliable and a joy to drive. The nicest sport sedan to look at, even some 20 years later!

[@k1ortia]

had a 530d with a stage one. absolutely brilliant car, loads of power, comfortable, fast and good on fuel

[@ldsgarage7142]

Good video, watching from Australia. I like your on camera persona. Lots of car KZbinrs are over the top with describing things. It’s nice to just see someone talk about a car without the carry on yet remain entertaining.

[@paulcruse]

I had my 528i for 20 years! Sold it just over a year ago with 226,000 miles on the clock. Absolute legend of a car. I have a well specced 35D X5 now which is very good, but not as special.

[@pgnlor9562]

Excellent revieew Jack. Truly one of the stand out BMWs. I seem to remember that the 6 cylinder cars had rack and pinion steering and the V8s had recirculating ball. I'm not certain about this - it may have been the previous generation.

[@Transportador33]

Great content and description of such an epic car. I currently own an e39 540it(touring), an e34 540i 6 speed, a 2001 e38 740 msport and a 2002 X5 4.6is. Truly great cars, made with an ethos that no longer exists, sadly.

[@THE-BUNKEN-DRUM]

I've got an E39 530i SE manual. Had her 5yrs now, been all around the country in her & apart from the usual ware & tare items, she's never put a foot wrong (I've just jinxed myself 😄). I've owned loads of cars over the years & she's the only 1 that I've connected with (so to speak). 😉

[@stephenmorrissey1254]

My local garage absolutely loved when I owned a 2000 BMW E46. Beautiful to look at on the hoist.

[@hunterhalo2]

I had a 540i paid in cash, it was such a great car. I had a hard time maintaining it at a lower rank pay in the military as I wanted to be smart with money, but I kept it going healthy for 5 years. I miss it so much!

[@MrBubba59]

Really enjoyed your video as I have a 530i Aegean Edition and an E46 330i. I put the suspension back to standard (from sport) on both these cars for even greater enjoyment. They just got everything so right.

[@Leprovocateur]

E39’s BMW are one of the best line of models BMW has manufactured since the E24 series! I now own two E39’s 1998 540ia a pre-vanos and a 2003 530ia. Even after all these years they drive and handle as well or better than most cars of it’s class now a days! I previously had 1991 535ia which was just as fast as my 1998 540ia. The E39’s are easy to work, part are relatively cheap as long as you stay away from the Chinese parts. I am seventy one yoa, I have and do my own maintenance and mechanical work on engine, transmission, electrical, interior, and body work. I have added a Bluebox Bluetooth to my 530ia it is my daily driver. I will not buy a newer model BMW because of the electronics and turbo’s which make them more expensive to work on the parts can be a bit expensive at times. I have a diagnostic service for E & F model BMW’s! I prefer E39’s because of their look, handling, and comfort, still get 22 mpg on long trips staying above eighty mph! Still a great vehicle when maintained and driving correctly!!!

[@drewsimpson5967]

My old boss had a 530d M Sport, bought in '02 at the height of the grey import era. Saved 8 grand, if I recall. What an exceptionally well sorted car it was, especially chassis-wise. Loved the way it would tighten its line on the throttle and really load the rear up. It had the looks as well. I would love to try a 530i manual.

[@robertperillo8738]

I love E39s. I’ve owned over 50 of these cars and have 6 in the garage currently - they are not only the best in their class from the era, but (in my opinion, at least) the best all around car ever built. Analog, yet new enough to comfortably daily. Beautifully designed in and out and exceptionally well built (unlike new BMWs). Reliable and simple to work on. I own an F10 and a G30 and while the tech in the newer cars is welcoming I find myself quickly waiting for an E39 to come back in rotation whenever I’m not driving one.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Very nice car. Nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@71ala]

I have owned every 5-series since the E34, until I switched to an M4 in 2017. I had two E39s: a 535i V8 and a late (angel eyes, big gps screen) 540i V8. They were both amazingly well built, fast and good handling cars, and I remember them fondly.

[@RichTee73]

This was my car for nearly 14 years❤

[@theoriginaljc-j]

Have my E39 530d Touring after 6 years and 185k on the clock. She gets regular long blasts across Europe and is a joy to own and drive. She's still a looker.

[@br5380]

I had a 98 535i, bought in 2007 for £3000. It was totally standard, immaculate and 80k miles. Drove wonderful, but at higher speeds I did prefer my previous Omega MV6. Sold the car for £300 with 110k as the auto box went into safe mode and I was quoted £900 to investigate’ it. Replaced with a Jag X-Type 3.0 AWD.

[@markdoyle6414]

I've been driving my 02 525i Sport for about 8-9 years and 35k. It's a manual and on 97k. Touch wood it's been a reliable car with next to no issues. Change the Vanos seal but didn't notice any difference. The sport suspension is a bit harsh for rough Scottish roads but not too bad. I would agree with the interior quality and I've managed to keep mine pretty rust free. The only quality issue is the cup holders, these are absolutely desperate quality both in terms of function and quality of material. I'm also getting 30mpg.

[@bogged2theeyeballs695]

Jack, your channel is definitely one of the best car channels on KZbin; not only for the types of cars reviewed, but it's the unbiased honesty and valid points made. Keep it up mate. Personally, I think driving standards are declining year on year due to all the electronic interference and 'safety' items engineered into modern cars. I hate them. Earlier cars are far better because they give you a seat of the pants experience and you actually have to drive them instead of just being a steering wheel attendant. In regards to BMW's, a mate of mine had an early model X5 and then later sold it for a much later (2015) X5. On numerous occasions we drove both cars from Melbourne to Sydney and back (He was buying up Porsche 911's ( for his business Zuffenhaus Classics) to restore and sell back when prices were going crazy.) a round trip of 1750 km (1085 miles). The old X5 just felt solid as a rock and never missed a beat for about 8 years he had it. Sold it with 350K km's on it, bought the new one and regretted it immediately. It felt plasticky and weak and much less involving and nice to drive. Had numerous problems with it and sold it after 50K km's.

[@NZBRG1]

Had an E38 740i of that era. Excellent, well built, great driving car.

[@grahamepigney8565]

I have 2 2001 530D Tourings very reliable and economical - the manual does between 45 & 50 mpg and the auto does between 35 & 40 mpg. Obviously get a bit more with autoroute driving. The self-leveling air suspension at the rear makes them excellent tow cars. I have a 1,8 tonne touring caravan and given the lower speed limits that apply while towing the fuel economy is nearly as good as when driving solo.

[@stoyantenev7819]

I now own an e39 525d manual (M57 3.0L engine, detuned from factory, common-rail injected, variable geometry turbo) thats made in Jan. 2001 and i am MADLY in love with this car! It has everything i need, heated seats, nice half-leather sport seats with under the knee retractible supports, a xenon headlights, a headlight washing system, rain sensing wipers, cruise control, rear and front parktronic systems (from factory) auto-dim + heated mirrors and rearview is also auto-dim, airbags all around (safety is important i have 2 kids), full navigation (which i converted to android). I mean, there are a LOT of cars today, that you can buy as new, and still dont have so many comfort built in them! Its amazing how a 1996-2003 car can beat cars that are 2023 models :D Its great on the economy too, 5 liters of diesel get me a 100 kilometers outside the city, on a normal driving. Put your right foot down to make the ride a FUN day and that figure gets to 8-9 liters of diesel per 100km. Which is also its economy in city driving. Never had a slip in a corner with all the systems it has, and funnily enough it drives like a sports car when i want it to, despite being a full-sized family sedan. P.S. Yes, i know, its a diesel, guess what - you cant guess it by the sound of the car, yes it sounds like a petrol, a lot! Its also quiet, and very ecological, as it has its catalytic converters in it, on the yearly inspections it gives the same polution values as most modern cars do. Most funny thing is it has over 400 000km on the clock and still hasnt undergone any major repair on the engine, not a rebuild no nothing, except some injector getting replaces and the turbo getting refurbed. Such a great car - i love it! What i especially love about it is that i can go over 140km/h on the autobahn and still have a conversation in it, without straining to hear my wife, without having to yell at her, i guess the sound insulation of the car is also overengineered :D

[@maxnugteren4837]

My dad had bought his 530i some time ago now and it’s probably one of the nicest cars he’s had, its comfortable and sporty at the same time now my mom has a 523i touring its a bit slow but it rides so smooth, they are really nice cars!

[@charlesmoss8119]

The E39 and E46 were for me peak BMW - the gap between them and other cars of the time seemed immense, of course I would urge you to look at who was in charge at the time and the sort of people they were - perfectionists? Doesn’t do them justice!!

[@sailingelleray]

I had a 98 528i Touring which was specced up and beautiful. Still going strong when I sold it with 260,000kms on the clock. Frustrating failures in the high miles included the sunroof, door seals and window regs (it had double glazing). Great car though.

[@SCHMALLZZZ]

My Grandma still has her 97 528i, I still associate BMWs with old people because of this. First time I was ever in a BMW was 1997, and first impressions are hard to shake.

[@bernardausterberry6174]

Everything has a golden age. As for for BMW beauty. I think it starts and ends with the original 850 V12. I also have a slight soft spot for the 2002.

[@neil12nealison]

Owned 3 e39s. One was a touring 530. A M5 & last a 540. . All lovely cars. Bought the last one, a 540 rather than a much newer model. The perfect shape and size. All drove really well and loads of space in the touring. The 540 & M5s seats were quite hard and that was the reason I sold the 540. I was older then so needed more comfort around the rear! 😆 The touring had comfort seats and it was like a motorised sofa.. I still look and ponder on another. Maybe I will take one final plunge in the not to distant future before they are all banned. Nice review, thanks,👍

[@adams7405]

I wanted one ever since I visited the BMW safety centre in Munich about 1998 before safety became a big thing.They slammed an E39 at 100 kph into the solid barrier and the cabin was fully intact and the doors opened easily afterwards.

[@triggrhaapi]

I'm glad you mentioned the recirculating ball as being the culprit of the numb steering on the E39. You're correct, the straight sixes have sharper steering. My point of comparison is a 530i non-sport to an M5, and the 530i vastly had the better steering feel and driver engagement. The weight and the recirculating ball both worked massively against the M5 in that regard. The brakes were also sharper, as the stock M5 brakes are poorly matched to the power and 500ish extra pounds of weight.

[@matthieuzglurg6015]

I've tried the 530i and the 535i, and really the 530i is a better all rounder on all accounts. the 535i with its little V8 is pushing a little bit more torque, but also more weight and not really more horsepower than what the in line 6 does in the 530i (4hp advantage to the 535) I do prefer the handling of the straight 6 E39s, it's a little lighter and less numb on the steering, also the fuel economy is better. I also prefer the sound but that's purely subjective. Seeing as the 535i and 540i are going up in price recently, the 530 (or even 528 at that point) are still better value when it comes to this generation im ny opinion

[@MonicaandMervyn]

I had a 2003 E39 525Ti. Best Estate-car/Station-Wagon I have ever owned or seen on the road. Looked great, "Mile muncher", comfortable, baggage capacity (if you needed that), roof rails for really long items (like christmas trees or timber, I remember). I agree certainly one of the best looking stylish cars BMW ever made. Like so many others here, I regret I was not wise enough to keep it long-term.

[@NinpoUK]

Still have an E39 530D manual, the 184bhp 99 plate. It'll pass 120k miles soon so I've much more time left with an amazing driving machine. You're spot on when saying how great the design is, even the all round visibility in it is incredible compared to other cars and newer BMWs. Fully agree with the modern BMW looks, just awful. The E39 remains the best looking BMW face they've ever made for me.

[@iangrumpypirate568donovan3]

Nailed it. BMW’s greatest era. They had passion and pride in what they made then.

[@sambobrooklyn316]

3 series is still class leading these days I drive them all.

[@tumiantumi4726]

Simply the best 5 ever...i have a 530i 2002...212.000 Km...better than most new cars....the BMW M54 inline 6 is the best 6 cylinder engine ever made so far...and if one takes good care of it, it will last you a lifetime...

[@zoppotromp1958]

I am glad I have kept my 540 E39. It is still running fine. However, I think the E34 handled even better, less weight, more nimble.

[@ImhotepBE]

had e39 540 sport and e34 540.. and I think e39 was better car, faster, better on fuel, handle very well.. but not as classic as e34 also owned e34 525i and e39 523 .... e39s engine was very smooth, again- e39 was better for me had e60 530d and e46 320d and own e90 325d sport LCI ... e60 got nice engine (M57) and auto gearbox but quality inside the car was crap .. e46 320d very solid car, same as e39.. but e90 325d best to drive, best on fuel(after EGR off and stage 1) feels as fast as 540 e39-at lower speed. looks of new BMWs 👎👎

[@zoppotromp1958]

@@ImhotepBE well, I had e34 535i with the M30B35 engine and loved it. Then I got the E39 540i with M62B44. As said, I thought the E34 was planted better on the road. I used the E39 as daily for over 200t miles and then got anA6. Arrgh! Returned to F31 530d and now G31 530d as daily. I like the G31 - and also think it is pretty.

[@ImhotepBE]

@@zoppotromp1958 never had Audi, but heard from people who switch from audi to the bmw, that they prefer BMW.. so I can see why you went back to BMW 😁👍 I put it wrong.. some of the new BMW's are ..looking 🥴, but you right g30/31 looks good.. Good luck 👍

[@zoppotromp1958]

@@ImhotepBE thanks, always good roads ahead for you too 👍

[@dennisyurukov2090]

I had almost every gasoline version of the E39 except the 535 ( 520i with the M52B20 engine, 520i with the M54B22, 523,525,528,530,540 and M5 ). I still keep my M5 over the years i owned a 535d E60 and an M5 F10 Competition and none of the new cars is even near to the quality of E39, that's why it's the only model of BMW which i think to keep for life

[@bojo4558]

I carried out pre delivery inspections on these 5's when they were new fantastic cars great vid THANKS❤😃

[@olepetter866]

Thank you for another great video. For me the E46 and E39 are the best BMW’s. I have a pristine 1998MY 328i with 57.000 km