BMW M5 III (E39) gallery (1998–2003)
Often hailed as the definitive sports sedan, driven by a 400-hp naturally aspirated V8 and exclusive 6-speed manual.
All photos
562
I (E28)
15
1984–1988
II (E34)
19
1988–1995
III (E39)
34
1998–2003
IV (E60/E61)
75
2004–2010
V (F10)
186
2011–2016
VI (F90)
163
2017–2023
VII (G90/G99)
48
2024
1600 x 1200
109
M5 E39
sedan
A silver sports sedan is driving on a country road against a backdrop of autumn trees. The car is captured from a front three-quarter angle, with the driver in glasses visible through the windshield.
1600 x 1200
104
M5 E39
sedan
A silver sports sedan parked at a front three-quarter angle on a path covered with autumn leaves in a forest setting, with glowing halo daytime running lights and illuminated fog lamps.
1600 x 1200
94
M5 E39
sedan
A silver sports four-door sedan viewed from the rear three-quarter angle against a backdrop of autumn trees. Features include rear lights, quad exhaust tips, alloy wheels, and a US license plate.
Debuting in 1998, the E39 M5 swapped the traditional inline-six for a roaring 4.9-liter naturally aspirated S62 V8 engine producing 400 horsepower. Offered exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox, it offered driver engagement of the highest order.
Its subtle quad exhausts, enlarged front air intake, and wide stance complemented a luxurious leather-bound cabin. The E39 M5 achieved a world-class synthesis of long-distance luxury cruising and thrilling backroad athleticism that set an enduring global benchmark.
