The BMW 5 Series Touring (E39) facelift 540i, produced from 2000 to 2004, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the E39 wagon lineup. Positioned as the range-topping variant, it offered a substantial upgrade over the 530i and 525i models, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, driving enjoyment, and a powerful V8 engine. The E39 generation, launched in 1995, was a critical and commercial success for BMW, establishing a new benchmark for handling and refinement in the executive car segment. The facelift models, introduced in 2000, brought subtle styling revisions, updated technology, and improvements to the engine range, solidifying the E39’s reputation as a modern classic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (E39, Facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 540i V8 (286 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 18.4 l/100 km (12.8 US mpg, 15.4 UK mpg, 5.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 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 | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2830 mm (111.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 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 | 6 gears, manual 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 R16; 235/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 540i Touring is the M62B44, a 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a descendant of the M60 and M62 families, is renowned for its smooth power delivery and distinctive exhaust note. It features a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, and utilizes double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) for both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system. The M62B44 produces 286 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The standard transmission for the 540i was a Getrag 6-speed manual, providing precise shifts and enhancing driver engagement. A 5-speed automatic transmission was also available, offering convenience but at the expense of some performance and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 540i Touring, even with the automatic transmission, delivers exhilarating performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6 seconds, and the car feels remarkably composed at higher speeds. The V8 engine provides a broad torque curve, making it responsive in various driving situations. While the automatic transmission shifts smoothly, it doesn’t offer the same level of control or responsiveness as the manual gearbox. The suspension, tuned for a balance of comfort and handling, provides a secure and planted feel, even when carrying a full load. The Touring’s increased weight compared to the sedan is noticeable, but the powerful V8 mitigates this effect.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 540i Touring came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, heated seats, and upgraded interior trim options. The exterior typically featured alloy wheels, chrome trim, and a subtle rear spoiler. The overall ambiance was one of understated luxury and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The E39 Touring utilizes a robust chassis with independent suspension all around. The front suspension employs a MacPherson strut design, while the rear features an integral-link setup. This configuration provides excellent ride quality and handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety. The 540i typically received larger brake rotors and calipers compared to the lower-spec models, providing improved stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 540i Touring was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined handling, and spacious interior. However, its relatively high price and fuel consumption were noted drawbacks. Compared to the 530i, the 540i offered a significant performance advantage, but at a higher cost. The 525i, while more affordable, lacked the V8’s power and prestige. The 540i’s fuel economy, averaging around 19 mpg combined, was considerably lower than that of the six-cylinder models.
Legacy
The E39 540i Touring remains a highly sought-after vehicle among BMW enthusiasts. The M62B44 engine, while known for some potential cooling system issues (particularly with the plastic coolant expansion tank), is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. Today, well-maintained examples command premium prices in the used car market. The combination of performance, practicality, and timeless design has cemented the E39 540i Touring’s status as a modern classic, representing a high point in BMW’s engineering and design history.
