2002 E39 540i 6MT Restoration | It Needs How Much Work?

I just can't help myself sometimes. I have an empty spot in my heart for early 2000's BMW's. I already have a 2002 E39 M5 that I converted to a track-only monster. Since then I really missed driving an E39 on the street. This beauty will hopefully fulfill that need.
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Side note- This DIY is not intended as instructional content. It is merely entertainment for you to do what you wish with. I’m just a guy with an awesome beard doing stuff I love. This content should not be used as a substituted for the advise of an appropriately qualified and licensed professional.

[@TimCheeney]

No rust, great find! Excited to see this project progress!

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

Got lucky with a Southwest car. Though It seems like cars from the Northwest are pretty rust free as well.

[@cyndijarvie1841]

It’s so beautiful. And I’m a truck girl, but would so drive this!

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

Your truck is pretty nice. I'm lucky to be able to work on it!

[@user-zf6dj3hw6q]

🎉New project!!!! Let’s go!!!

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

Baby steps. Getting another E39 reminds me how much I like this generation BMW. Now I kinda want an E53 4.6is to park next to it. ;-)

[@samanthasfrugallife]

It’s like big brother, little brother!!!

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

It really is.

[@911marcus]

Hi, greetings from Cold Germany. I might also like an E39 540i or M5. Simply beautifully designed vehicles with plenty of emotions installed right from the factory. A little tip, the fuel tanks are the same on all E39 petrol engines... from 520i to M5... Have fun with the restoration. PS are those the Styling 37 rims?

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

Thanks for confirming my suspicion on the gas tanks all being the same. I have reached out to the pick-n-pull junk yards around me and they all drill the tank to drain them. I'll find one eventually. As for the wheels, yes they are E38 Style 37's that were bored to fit the E39. The E38 fitment has a different offset that pushes the wheel out a little more.

[@Vikturus22]

In regards to the trim Check out Streten at M539 restorations. All he does is restore BMW's he has multiple M5's (E39 and E60) but on his E39 530i Daily and E46 325 he redid the trim himself with not only replacing but Painting himself. Might be able to learn something

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

Just checked out his channel. WOW. Great recommendation. Thank you!