There are a few key areas in the E39 M5 that you should know about if you’re considering buying what is probably, to this date, still the BEST 4 door car on the planet. The E39 M5 is officially a classic in my books. It is a cult car and will be forevermore.

There is no question in mind of 99% of owners that they won’t sell it. 1% get bored and decide they want something else – only to learn how much they missed the car. I happen to be a member of the former group – never planning to sell the Beast.

My experience in helping people buy the E39 m5 through the M5 Video Guide has taught me with great consistency the following:

1. Most owners who keep the car do a great job of keeping it up to date.
2. Those who sell it, often have deferred much of the key maintenance items. Unless you’re buying a BMW CPO car (which is increasing rare with the E39 M5), you’ve got to do your due diligence.
3. This car DOES have special needs and IS more expensive to own that any other non-”m” 5 series sedan.
4. Too many owners get into this car without a full understanding of its needs.

You should pay close attention to the following details during your evaluation and selection of an E39 M5.

• Rust.  There are a few key areas where rust accumulates for cars living in wetter climates.  One of them is underneath the side marker lights.
  
• Suspension.  Both the front and rear suspension have to do an incredible job on this car and there are key components in both areas that wear out with almost perfect consistency.  Bushings are cheap – labour is not.
  
• Seats. The front seats are made from beautiful Nappa leather.  Although they are extremely tasteful – some segments aren’t as durable as others.  Check your prospective car closely.
  
• Brakes.  This car requires special rotors that are expensive – there’s just no way around it and if you plan on going fast and driving hard – be prepared to buy rotors at ever brake re & re.
  
• Clutch.  It is self modulating and hates hard standing starts.

Sounds like everything that you would want to check on ANY car you buy – right? Yes.  Inside the M5 Video Guide I’ve outlined how to tell EXACTLY where these items are in their lifecycle and a lot more stuff you’d be wise to investigate fully.

Trust me – I learned the hard way with my first M5 (and have all the bills to prove it! ).

My advice (and that of experienced others) is that no matter how “clean” the car you find (and fall in love with) is, that you should be prepared to spend a little bit more once she’s under your care.
Whether it’s for modifications, upgrades or inevitable repairs – not having at least an extra few thousand per year to keep your E39 M5 up to spec is an ownership requirement in my books.
Good luck!

~Brooks.