BMW
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.
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 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.