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BMW M5

BMW

BMW M5: BMW's executive sport sedan. Six generations from E28 to F90 / current G90. From the original 1986 sport sedan
Photo: Vauxford / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

BMW's executive sport sedan. Six generations from E28 to F90 / current G90. From the original 1986 sport sedan to 600+ horsepower modern variants.

The BMW M5 is BMW high-performance sport sedan, produced across six generations since 1986. The M5 is the larger sibling of the M3, providing similar M division performance in a more practical executive sedan body. Each generation has refined the formula while pushing power outputs higher. The M5 generations: E28 M5 (1986-1988), E34 M5 (1989-1995), E39 M5 (1999-2003), E60/E61 M5 (2005-2010, the V10 era), F10 M5 (2012-2017, twin-turbo V8), F90 M5 (2018-2024), and current G90 M5 (2025+, hybrid with M Hybrid Drive). The E60 M5 (2005-2010) used the S85 5.0-liter V10 engine making 500 horsepower revving to 8,250 rpm. Naturally aspirated, dual overhead cam, and a unique character that distinguished it from twin-turbo competitors. Manual transmission was available; many enthusiasts prefer it over the SMG automated manual that was standard in some markets. The F10 M5 (2012-2017) shifted to twin-turbo V8 (the S63) making 555-575 horsepower. The F90 M5 (2018-2024) refined the formula with 600 horsepower and AWD M xDrive. The current G90 M5 (2025+) introduces hybrid powertrain with M Hybrid Drive, putting combined output around 700+ horsepower. The M5 has consistently been one of the fastest sport sedans available. Comparison tests between M5 and Mercedes-AMG E63, Porsche Panamera Turbo, and Audi RS6 are common in motoring journalism. On WhipJury, M5 submissions appear regularly across multiple generations. E60 V10, F10, and F90 examples are most common. Modified M5s with engine and chassis upgrades are common.

M5 generations

E28 (1986-1988). Original M5. S38 inline-six. Limited production (around 2,200 units globally).

E34 (1989-1995). S38 evolved. Various trim levels.

E39 (1999-2003). S62 4.9-liter V8. Manual transmission standard. Iconic Bavarian sport sedan.

E60 (2005-2010). S85 5.0-liter V10 makes 500 horsepower. Naturally aspirated, 8,250 rpm. Unique character.

F10 (2012-2017). S63 twin-turbo V8, 555-575 horsepower. RWD only.

F90 (2018-2024). Twin-turbo V8, 600 horsepower. M xDrive AWD optional.

G90 (2025+). Current. M Hybrid Drive with twin-turbo V8 plus electric motor.

M5 on WhipJury

M5 submissions appear regularly. E60 V10 (5.0-liter naturally aspirated, the unique character) is particularly desirable. F10 and F90 M5 examples are common. Modified M5s with various performance upgrades are popular.

Frequently asked questions about BMW M5

Why is the E60 M5 so famous?
The S85 V10 engine. Naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 revving to 8,250 rpm. The only V10 M5 ever produced and one of the most distinctive engines in any modern BMW. The combination of V10 sound, naturally aspirated power, and BMW M chassis tuning made the E60 M5 a defining sport sedan of its era.
Is the M5 V10 reliable?
Mixed. The S85 V10 has documented issues with throttle bodies, fuel injectors, and rod bearing concerns. With proper maintenance and timely replacement of known wear items, the V10 can be reliable. The cost of maintenance is significant; many V10 M5 owners budget $3,000-$8,000 annually for upkeep. The reward is the unique driving character.
How much does an M5 cost?
Used pricing varies. E39 M5: $20,000-$45,000. E60 V10 M5: $20,000-$50,000. F10 M5: $30,000-$60,000. F90 M5: $50,000-$95,000. New G90 M5: $115,000+. The E60 V10 is widely considered the most undervalued M5 in current market.
Why was the M5 V10 discontinued?
Emissions and efficiency regulations. The naturally aspirated V10 was difficult to certify for fuel economy and emissions. BMW shifted to twin-turbo V8 (S63) for the F10 and subsequent M5 generations. The V10 engine character was lost; the trade-off was significantly more torque and better efficiency.
Should I get an M5 or AMG E63?
Different priorities. M5 has more aggressive driving character and better steering feel. AMG E63 has more refined daily character and stronger torque delivery. Both compete directly in the same segment and have similar performance numbers. Choice often comes down to brand preference and aesthetic preference.

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