The 1996 BMW 540i (E39) is a game-changer. It was the car that proved a luxury executive sedan could have the soul—and the lungs—of a European muscle car. In 1996, it was the top of the 5 Series food chain, as the M5 of that generation wouldn't arrive for another few years.

The E39 generation is considered by many to be the most beautiful 5 Series ever made. It's the balance between the robustness of the E34 and the modernity of the E60.