The E38 & E39 Renaissance: U.S. Edition

06/07/2025

The BMW E38 & E39 Revival: American Enthusiasts Rediscover the Classics

Across the United States, the BMW E38 (1995–2001) and E39 (1996–2003) are enjoying a renaissance. These BMWs are no longer just nostalgic memories of the past, as they are being lovingly restored, driven, and shown off by a passionate and growing community of enthusiasts.

We came across a passionate mechanic based in Atlanta, Georgia. Josh found a 2002 BMW E39 540i M-Sport with a 6-speed manual transmission for about $3,500. The car had bad suspension, faded interior, and outdated halogen headlights — but it also had incredible potential.

Over several months, Josh meticulously rebuilt the suspension with OEM parts, refurbished the interior by replacing worn leather and trim pieces, and upgraded the lighting system by retrofitting xenon headlights with modern ballasts. His goal was to balance the E39's classic appeal with 2025 requirements.

Now, Josh proudly drives his E39 to Southeast Cars & Coffee meets, where it's a standout thanks to its subtle M-Sport enhancements and mechanical dependability.

BaT Listings - Prices begin to rise

1998 740iL SOLD for over 17.000$

This 1998 BMW 740iL was purchased new by the current owner's grandfather at VOB BMW in Rockville, Maryland, and the current owner acquired it in 2021. The car is finished in Jet Black over Sand leather and is powered by a 4.4-liter V8 paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. Equipment includes heated and power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a sunroof, cruise control, and 16″ alloy wheels. This E38 has 51k miles and is now offered by the seller on behalf of the current owner with a window sticker, service records, a tool kit, a clean Carfax report, and a clean Maryland title in the owner's name

See more pictures and other details here.

2001 750iL SOLD for over 60.000$

This 2001 BMW 750iL is a long-wheelbase example that has 56k miles following history in Texas, Florida, and Massachusetts. The car is powered by a 5.4-liter M73 V12 paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, and it is finished in Schwarz II over black Montana leather. Equipment includes 18″ M Parallel Style 37 alloy wheels, xenon headlights, Shadowline trim, a sunroof, Park Distance Control, heated power-adjustable front seats, heated power-adjustable rear seats, navigation, Bavsound audio components, cruise control, and dual-zone automatic climate control. This 750iL Sport is now offered by the selling dealer at no reserve with the owner's manual and a clean Montana title.

The cabin features heated power-adjustable active front seats upholstered in black Montana leather and inlaid Walnut trim on the dashboard, console, and door panels. Interior features include heated power-adjustable rear seats, navigation, a CD stereo, rear sunshades, double-pane side window glass, cruise control, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The window regulators and Bavsound speakers, subwoofer, and amplifier were replaced in 2024.

See more pictures and other details here.

Events and Car Meets around U.S.

Events across the country are helping to galvanize this movement. The Vintage, held annually in Hendersonville, North Carolina, welcomed over 150 E38s and E39s this year. Attendees gathered not just to show off their cars, but to connect, trade knowledge, and enjoy scenic backroad drives through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Bimmer Invasion of Los Angeles took over Irwindale Speedway with a diverse range of BMW models. The special showcase of pristine E38 and E39 builds was one of the highlights of the event.

Beyond the big annual meets, smaller Cars & Coffee gatherings in cities like San Diego, Dallas, and New York continue to thrive. These informal weekend events allow owners to meet, discuss projects, swap parts, and plan future builds. At one recent East Coast gathering, the vibe leaned distinctly Bavarian, with German food, beer, and a line-up of beautifully preserved 5- and 7-series cars from the golden age of BMW.

Among enthusiasts, there's growing appreciation for U.S.-spec trims and original color combinations. Highline spec, recognised by the two-tone interior, usually accompanied by chromeline touches, remains a favorite. Many owners use VIN decoders to confirm factory options and colors before beginning restoration, ensuring authenticity and value.
Parts availability is less of a hurdle than one might expect. Suppliers like ECS Tuning, FCP Euro, and Turner Motorsport offer robust support, with fast shipping across North America. Online forums like Bimmerforums and Bimmerpost are still active and full of useful tips, while Facebook groups dedicated to E38 and E39 owners serve as virtual garages and community centers.

These cars are winning over a new generation not just because of their style and engineering, but because they offer a driving experience that's becoming increasingly rare. V8 engines, hydraulic steering, and manual gearboxes all contribute to a tactile, engaging feel that's absent from most modern cars. They are still affordable too, with well-kept examples under $10,000 and project cars under $5,000 that can be revived with the right investment.

If you have a clean E38 or a wild E39 project, or if you're planning to attend Bimmer Invasion or The Vintage next year, your story deserves to be told. Share your restoration journey and connect with the broader community that's keeping the legacy of these iconic BMWs alive.

Tag us on Instagram or submit your story through our site. The E38 and E39 era may be in the rearview mirror, but for many, the drive is just getting started.