The fourth generation of the BMW 5-series sedan with the in-plant designation "E39" celebrated its official premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1995, and after a year and a half (in March 1997) the Touring joined the three-volume model. In 2001, the car underwent an update, which consisted in small straightening of the exterior and the appearance of new engines under the hood.
Two years later, the "five" was overtaken by another reincarnation - a model in the back of the E60 entered the market.
The "fourth" BMW of the 5th series is a mid-size car of a premium class, the body palette of which consisted of three-volume and cargo-passenger modifications.
The length of the "Bavarian" is from 4775 to 4805 mm, the height is from 1415 to 1440 mm, the width is 1800 mm, the gap between the bridges is 2830 mm. The ground clearance of cars of European assembly is set at 120 mm, and for Russian cars - 155 mm. The curb weight of the "five" varies from 1470 to 1610 kg, depending on the version.
Specifications. Both gasoline and diesel power plants were based under the hood of the BMW E39.
- The gasoline section was formed by atmospheric in-line “sixes” and V-shaped “eights” with a distributed fuel supply of 2.2-4.4 liters, developing from 170 to 286 horsepower and from 210 to 420 Nm of maximum torque.
- Among the diesel options were six-cylinder in-line turbo engines of 2.0-2.9 liters, the output of which reaches 136-193 "horses" and 280-410 Nm of thrust.
A manual transmission for five or six gears, or a 5-band "automatic" was responsible for the direction of the potential to the back of the wheel.
"Five" of the fourth generation is based on a rear-wheel drive platform with a double-wishbone suspension at the front and a four-link structure at the rear (aluminum was widely used in the chassis to reduce weight). Braking is handled by ventilated disc devices on the front and discs on the rear wheels, which are assisted by electronic assistants. By default, the "Bavarian E39" is equipped with a hydraulic booster.
Productive engines, perfected handling, exemplary comfort, efficient braking system, corporate identity and solid image - despite its age, the car keeps its brand to the maximum.
But not everything is as good as it seems at first glance - BMW 5-series is expensive to maintain, has a great fuel "appetite" and has a modest ground clearance.
