The BMW 5 Series Touring (E39) 540i V8 Automatic, produced from 1998 to 2000, represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the E39 Touring range. As the flagship variant of the second-generation 5 Series wagon, it combined the practicality of a station wagon with the potent power of BMW’s naturally aspirated V8 engine. Positioned as the premium offering, the 540i Touring catered to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without compromising on space or utility. It was a relatively short-lived model, bridging the gap between the earlier E34 generation and the more technologically advanced E60 that followed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (E39) |
| Type (Engine) | 540i V8 (286 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 17.6 l/100 km (13.4 US mpg, 16.1 UK mpg, 5.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 164.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 252.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 286 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3600 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M62B44 |
| Engine displacement | 4398 cm3 (268.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.7 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1525 l (53.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4805 mm (189.17 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2830 mm (111.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Inclined Lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16W |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 540i Touring was the M62B44, a 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a descendant of the M60 and M62 families, was renowned for its smooth power delivery and distinctive sound. It featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, and utilized double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) for both intake and exhaust camshafts, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 5-speed automatic transmission, a ZF 5HP30, was specifically calibrated to handle the V8’s substantial torque. This transmission offered smooth shifts and a driver-selectable sport mode for more aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 540i Touring Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its six-cylinder or manual transmission siblings. While not as overtly sporty as the 540i with a manual gearbox, the automatic provided a more relaxed and refined driving experience. The ZF transmission, while capable, did introduce a slight power loss compared to the manual. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 6.4 seconds, respectable for a wagon of its size and weight. The automatic’s gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising, making it an excellent grand tourer. The V8’s torque was readily available, providing effortless overtaking power. However, some drivers noted a slight delay in response compared to the more direct feel of the manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 540i Touring was generously equipped as standard. Leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system were all standard features. Wood trim adorned the interior, enhancing the luxurious ambiance. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, upgraded sound system, and heated seats. The 540i also benefited from BMW’s commitment to build quality, with attention paid to detail and material selection.
Chassis & Braking
The E39 Touring chassis was well-engineered, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The 540i featured a robust suspension setup, with wishbone front suspension and an inclined lever rear axle. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. Due to the increased weight of the V8 engine, the 540i often featured slightly stiffer springs and dampers compared to the six-cylinder models to maintain handling balance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 540i Touring was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and practical wagon body style. However, its higher price tag and relatively short production run limited its sales volume. Compared to the 530i Touring, the 540i offered significantly more performance but came at a premium. The 525i Touring, the entry-level model, provided a more fuel-efficient and affordable option, but lacked the V8’s power and prestige. Fuel economy, while acceptable for a V8, was considerably lower than the six-cylinder models, averaging around 17.6 l/100km in urban driving.
Legacy
The M62B44 engine, while generally reliable, is known to require preventative maintenance, particularly regarding cooling system components and valve stem seals. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained with regular fluid changes, is also considered durable. Today, the E39 540i Touring is a sought-after classic, appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. Its status as a relatively rare and powerful E39 Touring ensures its continued desirability among BMW collectors and driving enthusiasts.
