1997 BMW 540i M-Sport

VIN WBADE5324VBV90189

event_available Jun 30, 2026
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What’s special about this listing

For sale is my well-loved E39 540i 6-speed finished in one of BMW's best colors, Montreal Blue. This is a relatively uncommon color on the E39, and the original owner ordered the car with an excellent selection of factory options.

The car is equipped with Sand Beige Montana Leather, S403 Power Sunroof, S438 Fine Wood Trim, S494 Heated Front Seats, and S248 Heated Steering Wheel.

The most desirable option on the car is the S704 M Sport Suspension. In 1996, this package was essentially BMW's precursor to the later M Sport package and included a lower, firmer suspension setup, thicker sway bars, and shorter bump stops. The result is a car that feels planted and composed when driven enthusiastically.

The car also retains its factory Style 19 wheels, manufactured by BBS and widely regarded as one of the best wheel designs offered on the E39.

Maintenance has been a priority during my ownership. Earlier this year, the car received a fresh oil and filter service. The battery, starter, and clutch cylinder were also replaced, along with a brake fluid flush and bleed. This month, the engine air filter and cabin air filters were replaced as part of routine maintenance.

In preparation for the sale, all belts and pulleys were replaced, including new genuine BMW hardware and pulley caps. I also replaced all tail light bulbs and installed new license plate light assemblies to keep everything looking fresh and functioning properly.

I installed a BlueBus Bluetooth module that integrates with the factory audio system through the CD changer connection. It provides Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free functionality while maintaining an OEM appearance and operation.

The timing chain guides have not been replaced during my ownership. However, the car has received regular 5,000-mile oil changes and has been consistently driven and maintained. The timing chains have been inspected, and there are no signs of slack, rattling, or chain noise.

As with any E39 of this age, the car is not perfect, but it is a very well-loved and cared-for example that would not take much to bring to the next level. The Sand Beige leather remains soft and supple, showing very little wear. All previous owners, myself included, were fairly light and took care when getting in and out of the car, which has helped preserve the condition of the seats.

At the end of the day, it's a 6-speed manual V8 BMW in a rare and desirable color combination. These cars are becoming increasingly difficult to find in honest, enthusiast-owned condition.

I'm looking for the next owner to be someone who will continue to garage, maintain, and enjoy the car as it deserves.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions or requests for additional information. (760) 420-9999

Specs

Details about this vehicle - decoded from the VIN & CLASSIC.COM curators. Contact the seller for specifics about this listing.

Year
1997
Make
BMW
Model Family
5 Series
Model Generation
E39
Model Variant
540i
Model Trim
M-Sport
VIN
WBADE5324VBV90189
Mileage
107,600 mi
Originality
Original & Highly Original
Engine
4.4L V8 (M62)
Transmission
Manual
Drive Type
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
Vehicle Type
Automobile
Body Style
Sedan
Driver Side
LHD
Doors
4 Doors
Color Group (Ext)
Blue
Color Group (Int)
Beige/Tan

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