The E39 generation BMW 5-series officially started production in 1995 (station wagon/touring models were released shortly after in 1996) and continued to be produced until 2004 as the E60 replacement models began production.

It was available with multiple petrol and diesel powerplants, ranging from a 2-litre straight-six to a 4.9-litre V8 and was combined with either a four- or five-speed automatic, or a five- or six-speed manual transmission.

The E39 5-series featured a list of luxury and safety features which made it one of the most practical and safest vehicles on the road at the time. One such feature was curtain airbags; the E39 was one of the first vehicles to have airbags located in that area to protect the occupant’s head from a side impact. Other safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction control and front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters.

The E39 5-series was the first 5-series to utilize aluminum for most of its front suspension components such as the steering knuckles and the front subframe for the six-cylinder models. The Touring variant of the E39 was the first BMW model to feature air-suspension, which gives the 5-series the ability to utilise its self-levelling system when the rear side is under heavy weight.

This Example

This E39 Touring is an M-Sport variant which comes with optional extras including the M-Leather multi-function steering wheel, M-Aerodynamics package, roof rails, M-spec alloy wheels, sports seats, park distance control and more. It also has a full service history with authorized BMW dealers and comes with the the owner's handbook, radio operation manual, motorplan receipts and invoices.

Available to view by appointment in Cape Town.

Reminders to bidders:

• A buyer's premium of 5% (which includes VAT) for cars and bikes applies.
• The minimum buyer's premium is R5 000 incl. VAT for cars and bikes (eg. if R50 000 is bid, buyer's premium = R5 000 and total cost = R55 000).
• The maximum buyer's premium is capped at R100 000 incl. VAT for cars and bikes (eg. if R3 000 000 is bid, buyer's premium = R100 000 and total cost = R3 100 000).
• Classic Car Africa aims to present each lot as accurately as possible but it is the responsibility of the bidder to be 100% satisfied with the condition of the lot before placing a bid.

Click here to follow or bid on the auction.