Just like the Jaguar Mk. II had done in the 1960's, the BMW M5, affectively reinvented the popular notion of a sports saloon. The E39 generation is seen as one of the true great M cars, introduced in 1998 when Jaguar had just introduced an XJR with 365bhp, and Mercedes-Benz's latest E55 produced 350bhp, after a three-year absence, BMW responded with an automotive knock-out punch: the E39 M5. Its muscular bodywork concealed a 5.0 litre, DOHC 32 valve, V8 with variable valve timing producing roughly 400bhp and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Daring drivers could sprint from 0-60 in just 4.7 seconds; faster than a Porsche 911, while roaring through the gears with a 7,000rpm redline and a throaty exhaust note blaring through four exhaust tips.

This example is presented in the exceedingly rare ‘Individual’ Velvet Blue metallic, which is simply one of ‘the’ colours to have on an E39 M5. This is an opportunity which is very rarely available, only seven cars are believed to exist in the UK in this colour and this particular one is the only example specified with Sand Beige interior. Our vendor has owned three E39 M5’s in total and this car was on his radar for a very long time before he had the opportunity to purchase it. When it did become available he jumped straight in the car and bought it that same day! Forming part of an impressive BMW collection, this car has been in the right hands with our vendor and the previous long-term owner. The service history is excellent, with 18 service stamps from a mixture of main agents and specialists and the overall condition of the car is superb.  Supplied to auction with a V5C registration document, MoT test certificate and a comprehensive maintenance history, this M5 will be truly appreciated by enthusiasts and collectors alike. Consigned by Fraser Smith