Not going to lie - I'll love every post about the E39. I've owned a MT E39 528, then 530, and then, finally in 2004 I found my perfect 2002 E39 M5. It has long since been retired from DD duties (which it did superbly from 2004 - 2016), but I remember the first time I drove it every time I drive it. Not so fast anymore, but timeless.
I have only respect for those who want more from this platform, but mine will remain stock forever. And, I think, the better for it. In an era where a hot hatch can get to 60 mph faster, I'm just going to enjoy the ride.
