The E39 automobile platform was the basis for the 1996 through 2004 BMW 5 Series. It was the successor of the BMW E34 in 1996 (UK), and itself was replaced by the BMW E60 in 2004. The basic model was the 520i, which develops 150 hp (112 kW). The BMW E39 M5 was introduced in 1998, with a 4.9 L V8 engine.

The E39 was sold in the UK starting in 1995, followed by the rest of Europe and finally on other continents. Various engine sizes and types have been available. Of the full range available:

The USA saw the 525i, 528i, 530i, 540i and M5 The European BMW range saw the 520, 523, 528, 530, 535, 540, 525tds, 520d, 525d, 530d and M5.