Germany vs Germany — 2000 vs 1986
| M5 E39 | M635CSi E24 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 394 hp | 286 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 251 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,941 cc | 3,453 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 158 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.1 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,956 lbs | 3,461 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,830 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,783 mm | 4,755 mm |
| Units Produced | 20,482 | 5,855 |
| Original MSRP | $69,400 | $54,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2000 BMW M5 E39 brings more power, quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 answers with higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
BMW has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2000 BMW M5 E39 with the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2000 BMW M5 E39 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 394 hp compared to 286 hp, a 108-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M5 uses a V8 DOHC 32V (S62) displacing 4,941 cc, while the BMW M635CSi relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,453 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2000 BMW M5 E39 edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 6.1 seconds. The BMW M635CSi carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 495 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,855 units built, the 1986 BMW M635CSi E24 is considerably scarcer than the BMW M5's 20,482 examples.