A V8-powered BMW E39 5-Series Touring has appeared for sale in the UK wearing a convincing faux-rust wrap that makes the wagon look as though it has spent years decaying outdoors. Beneath the weathered appearance, however, is a facelifted 540i M Sport with its original black paint largely hidden beneath the previous owner’s unusual customization.

The car left the factory in 2000 and has since had nine owners. It has covered 178,000 miles, but the listing suggests its battered appearance is not an accurate reflection of its history. The rust effect is part of the wrap rather than genuine corrosion, although its realism is somewhat undermined by the fact that the effect continues across the plastic bumpers.

Facelifted 540i M Sport specification

Despite the rat-rod styling, the Touring retains the balanced proportions associated with the E39 generation. This example is a facelifted 540i M Sport, identified by details including clear indicators, M5-inspired front bumper intakes, and a deeper rear bumper with dual exhaust outlets.

The right-hand-drive cabin is trimmed in Sand Beige and appears to have held up reasonably well for a 26-year-old BMW with substantial mileage and multiple owners. The wood interior trim and M Sport steering wheel are described as being in very good condition, while the leather on the driver’s seat is showing enough wear that replacement may be needed.

Equipment includes power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and power-folding mirrors. The original audio system also includes a cassette player, preserving a distinctly period-appropriate feature from before music streaming became commonplace.

Naturally aspirated V8 power

Power comes from BMW’s naturally aspirated 4.4-liter M62 V8. In the E39 540i, the engine produced 282 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, making it the second-most powerful engine offered in the regular E39 range.

Only the M5 sat above it in the lineup, using a 4.9-liter V8 rated at 394 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 540i Touring therefore combines the practical wagon body with the non-M range’s top conventional powertrain.

UK asking price

The faux-rust Touring is located in South Birmingham and is listed on eBay for £5,500, or approximately $7,350. The seller is also willing to consider sensible offers. Included with the car is a binder containing service records, while the tires were replaced a year ago.

The wrap will likely divide opinion among E39 enthusiasts, particularly those who prefer the model’s original styling. For buyers seeking a running V8-powered E39 estate with an unmistakable visual presence, though, this Touring offers a very different interpretation of the classic BMW wagon.