What distinguishes the M5 from a regular E39 5-series? 

Exterior – The front and rear bumpers are completely different to those of the regular 5-series. The front is aerodynamically shaped and identical to the bumper of BMW’s M package (options code 715) for the E39 series, however the front grid (air inlet) is unique to the M5 model. The M5 is always equipped with xenon headlights and headlamp washers. The rear bumper is also the same as the M-package, although the removable lower part is redesigned to accommodate the four tailpipe exhaust system. Unlike the previous model, the E39 M5 never has a contrasting colour on the lower trim, instead it has the main colour all the way down. Specially designed M exterior mirrors are standard equipment (unique to this model). White turn signal lenses all around is also one of the standard feautures. The rear spoiler from BMW Motorsport was installed at no charge, but could also be deleted (options code 326). Chrome-edged slats in the grill is a detail that characterizes all E39-series V8 models, inlcuding the M5. The kidney grills were however larger in size (M-Chrom) than the other E39 models on the 1999 and 2000 model year M5. From 2001 and onwards, all models have the same size. 

The front door trim carries the “M5” logo and a model designation badge is also placed on the trunk (could be deleted upon order at no cost). The wheels were of the same size as the last model year of the predecessor M5 E34, i.e 18 “and painted in a new darker colour called “Chrome Shadow metallic”. 

Interior – M sports seats were standard equipment, electrically adjustable with seat heating and lumbar support on both sides. Leather upholstery was a standard feature and there was a large selection of different types and colours to choose from, and also a combination with alcantara and leather. Interior trim in matte chrome look (“Titan Line”) was standard and as an option there were two types of wood trim available. 

All E39 M5s had a comprehensive standard equipment, containing amongst other things; 
– Front and rear armrests 
– M Technik footrest on the driver’s side 
– Black leather gearshift knob with the M emblem and an illuminated shift pattern 
– M sports leather steering wheel with airbag (also included were side airbags and a passenger airbag) 
– Handbrake handle, handbrake- and gearshift gaitor in leather 
– Door sills with the M5 insignia 
– On-board computer with check control and alphanumeric display (navigation system as an option) 
– Power windows (front and rear) 
– Antracite headliner 
– Electrically adjustable steering column 
– Automatic climate control with air recirculation (AUC) 

The instrument cluster was totally revised for the M5. The speedometer was graduated to 300 km/h and the rev counter included a new variable warming up function that turn off lights as the engine warms up.

M5 instrument cluster 

Suspension – The M5 E39 had a sports suspension with lower ground clearance. The hydraulic self-levelling-system for the rear axle and the electronic damper control (EDC) that was on its predecessor, was abandoned in favor of more conventional solutions. The M5 instead had the so called “M Sports suspension II” (E39 options code 705), identical to the option offered for the E39 V8 models 535i and 540i. 
The front suspension is a dual-link lightweight construction and is also shared with the 535i and 540i. Larger M5-specific anti-roll bars, measuring 27 and 16.5 mm, was mounted to the front and rear axle, together with a more thicker rear axle beam, which was unique to the M5. 
The steering was fitted with the M-servotronic system with sporty characteristics as standard. 
The brakes did not need a significant upgrade and the brake discs were, as before, 345 and 328mm and still of the same Compound type. 

Wheels 
The E39 M5s were equipped with 18″ alloy wheels which which was the same height as the last model year of its predecessor, but now with wider rear rims (9.5 inches). The tire size was then brought up to a 275/35R18 for the rear and maintaining 245/40R18 on the front (like the 1995 M5). 
The most special feature of the new M double-spoke wheels was the paint. A new colour in matt chrome giving them a sporty look. The M5 E39 was the first BMW that had the wheels painted in Chrome-Shadow metallic. 
The rims and tires kept the same design and measurements throughout the production. 
As an option, a 17″ wheel kit was offered, only for winter use (options code 934): BMW E39 M Parallel spoke styling 66 with winter tires in the size 235/45R17. 
 
 

Rim and tire specifications 
 
M Double spoke Chrome Shadow (styling 65) 
Front: 8×18 ET20 (OEM part number 36112228950) 
Rear: 9,5×18 ET22 bak (OEM part number 36112228960) 
Tires: 245/40R18 front and 275/35R18 rear 
Colour code: 2K SC0142K-AZ / BMW A56 

M Parallel spoke styling 66 (approved wheels for winter use) 
Rims: 8×17 ET20 (OEM part number 36112228995) 
Tires: 235/45R17 runt om 
 
Wheel bolts: M12 X 1,5 (svarta) 
Bolt circle: 5 x 120 
 
Factory summer tires were usually of Michelin manufacture.