The E39 BMW M5 (2000 – 2003) is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the M5, upping the performance considerably over the prior E34 by harnessing a 400-hp 4.9-liter V8, while retaining the sporting character that had been luxed out by the following generations. They were—and remain—so good that most owners can’t help but chalk up the miles. So we’ll begin with kudos to the previous Southwestern owners for their restraint in keeping this one to around 51,000 miles.
Then there’s the 6-speed manual, the Carbon Black (which is actually a very dark blue) over Black (single-tone!) Nappa leather, along with other desirable options, and it’s hard to dream of anything better. It has also been primed for its next owner with $10,000 spent in recent service (though no specific mention is made of any Achilles-heel Vanos repair).
A 2022 BMW M5 CS just sold for $137,500. It’s undoubtedly a superb and sophisticated machine. But if it’s the sport you want out of your M-Sport, it would be hard to top this well-appointed, low-mileage E39. Spirited bidding suggests others agree. Find it on Cars and Bids at $38,888 with five days left.