BMW 5 Series Touring (E39) 540i V8 (286 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.1 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.8 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW 5 Series:

The BMW 5 Series is an executive car manufactured and marketed by BMW since 1972. It is the successor to the BMW New Class sedans and is currently in its eighth generation. The car is sold as either a sedan or, since 1991, a station wagon. A 5-door fastback was sold between 2009 and 2017. Each successive generation has been given an internal G-code designation since 2017. Previously, a F-code designation was used between 2010 and 2016, while an E-code designation was used between 1972 and 2010. These are used to distinguish each model and generation from each other....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Touring (E39) Overview:

BMW 5 Series (Touring (E39)). With 440 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1740 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.3 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

540i V8 (286 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Effortless power and rapid acceleration from the smooth V8, making it a true high-performance touring car.

Fuel Economy

Very high fuel consumption, especially in urban driving, making it expensive to run.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving, high-speed autobahn touring.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional ride comfort and refinement for its class.
  • • Timeless, elegant design that still looks good today.
  • • Engaging driving dynamics and precise steering.
  • • Spacious and practical Touring body style with ample cargo space.
  • • Strong and diverse engine lineup, from economical diesels to powerful V8s.

Cons:

  • • Can be expensive to maintain as they age, especially with complex electronics.
  • • Rust can be an issue on certain areas (e.g., tailgate, sills).
  • • Older diesel engines (M51) are less refined and powerful than modern units.
  • • Some common electrical gremlins and cooling system vulnerabilities.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E39: 1996 - 2000).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:Touring (E39)
Modification (Engine):540i V8 (286 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:286 Hp @ 5400 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:65 Hp/l [30mm more]
Torque:440 Nm @ 3600 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M62B44 More details about the engine M62B44
Engine displacement:4398
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:7.5 l
Coolant:12 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:92 mm
Piston Stroke:82.7 mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:18 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:9.1 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.3 sec
Maximum speed:250 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.1 kg/Hp, 164.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4 kg/Nm, 252.9 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1740
Max. weight:2280
Max load:540
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1525 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:410 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4805 mm [30mm more]
Width:1800 mm [Same width.]
Height:1440 mm [5mm more]
Wheelbase:2830 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1512 mm
Rear (Back) track:1522 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeCone worm with recirculation balls
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size225/55 R16 W
Wheel rims size16
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionInclined Lever

Have you ever driven an BMW 5 Series?
How was your experience with it? Share with us: