6.5-8.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Lubrication System
Oil Type:
BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil (e.g., BMW Longlife-01 or LL-04 specifications)
Oil Capacity Typical:
6.5 - 7.5 liters (depending on engine)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 220/260)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP19, ZF 5HP24)
Features
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shift mode
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent for GM units, ATF LT71141 or ZF LifeguardFluid 5 for ZF units
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 188.0 - 190.0 inches (4775 - 4826 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.1 - 57.4 inches (1425 - 1458 mm)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111.4 inches (2830 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500 - 3900 lbs (1588 - 1769 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 17.0 cu ft (481 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (driver/passenger)
IIHS Front Impact:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
ASR (Automatic Stability Control) / DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available on many models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts with pre-tensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit Options:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, optional navigation systems (MKIII/MKIV)
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional premium Hi-Fi systems
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Connectivity
Telephone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation with cradle
Climate Control
Climate Control System:
Manual or automatic dual-zone climate control
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (BMW Condition Based Service - CBS)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type and engine
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or Pentosin CHF 202 (check specific model/year requirements)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 - 9.5 liters (depending on engine)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
VANOS solenoids and seals, oil separator (CCV) system, cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses), ignition coils, ABS wheel speed sensors, front suspension bushings and control arms
E39 Specific Issues:
Pixelated LCD display in instrument cluster, sagging headliner, rear shock mount failure, vacuum leaks
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E39 Introduction:
The E39 5 Series debuted in 1995 for the 1996 model year and was produced until 2003. The 1997-2001 models represent the early to mid-production phase of this generation.
E39 Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, introducing revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, and engine updates (e.g., M54 engines replacing M52TU). This manual covers pre-facelift and early facelift models.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), Austria (Graz - Magna Steyr for some models)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best 10:
The E39 5 Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run.
Ward Best Engines:
BMW's inline-6 engines were often recognized for their smoothness and power.