The BMW 540i, part of the E60 5 Series lineup following the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) facelift in 2007, represented a compelling blend of luxury and performance. Produced from 2007 to 2010, this variant was positioned as a high-end offering within the 5 Series range, slotting above the 535i and 528i models. It catered to buyers seeking a more potent engine and a refined driving experience. The E60 generation, known for its controversial but ultimately successful styling under Chris Bangle’s design direction, aimed to modernize BMW’s mid-size executive sedan while maintaining the brand’s focus on driver engagement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series (E60 LCI, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 540i V8 (306 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 250 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 236.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 3500 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N62B40A |
| Engine displacement | 4000 cm3 (244.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.1 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4841 mm (190.59 in.) |
| Width | 1846 mm (72.68 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2030 mm (79.92 in.) |
| Height | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2888 mm (113.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Front overhang | 852 mm (33.54 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1101 mm (43.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm (5.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 540i was the N62B40A 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a descendant of the M62 series, featured aluminum alloy construction, double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, and BMW’s Double-VANOS variable valve timing system for both intake and exhaust. The N62 introduced several improvements over its predecessor, including a more efficient combustion chamber design and a lighter weight. Fuel was delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 306 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. The standard transmission was a 6-speed manual, though a 6-speed automatic transmission was also available, and was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of use.
Driving Characteristics
The 540i delivered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the four and six-cylinder variants. The V8 provided smooth, linear power delivery, offering strong acceleration in any gear. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, the 540i excelled in providing effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control, while the automatic offered seamless shifts. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced feel, although traction could be a concern in adverse weather conditions. The suspension, tuned for comfort, provided a compliant ride without sacrificing handling precision.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 540i typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, active steering, and upgraded interior trim options. The LCI facelift brought subtle interior revisions, including updated switchgear and improved iDrive functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The E60 5 Series featured a robust chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The 540i benefited from slightly stiffer springs and dampers compared to lower-spec models to manage the increased weight of the V8 engine. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).
Market Reception & Comparison
The 540i was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the V8’s fuel economy was relatively poor compared to the six-cylinder alternatives. Compared to the 535i, the 540i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 540i also faced competition from rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz E500 and the Audi A6 4.2, each offering a similar blend of luxury and performance.
Legacy
The N62 V8 engine, while known for its smoothness and power, has a reputation for potential cooling system issues, including water pump and thermostat failures. Oil leaks can also occur over time. However, with proper maintenance, the N62 can be a reliable engine. Today, the E60 540i represents an affordable entry point into the world of V8-powered BMWs. Well-maintained examples are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate the combination of classic BMW styling, a potent engine, and a comfortable driving experience. The car’s relative rarity compared to the more common six-cylinder models adds to its appeal in the used car market.
