1996 BMW 5-Series E39

The fourth generation of the BMW 5-Series was presented at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new models showcased an outstanding innovation as the first mass produced car in the world to have an alloy chassis.

The BMW E39 is the fourth generation of BMW 5 Series, which was manufactured from 1995 to 2004. It was launched in the sedan body style, with the station wagon body style (marketed as “Touring”) introduced in 1996. The E39 was replaced by the E60 5 Series in 2003, however E39 Touring models remained in production until May 2004.

The proportion of chassis components using aluminium significantly increased for the E39, and it was the first 5 Series to use aluminium for all major components in the front suspension or any in the rear. It was also the first 5 Series where a four-cylinder diesel engine was available. Rack and pinion steering was used for four- and six-cylinder models, the first time that a 5 Series has used this steering system in significant volumes. Unlike its E34 predecessor and E60 successor, the E39 was not available with all-wheel drive.

The high performance E39 M5 sedan was introduced in 1998, powered by a 4.9 L (299 cu in) DOHC V8 engine. It was the first M5 model to be powered by a V8 engine.