The BMW M5 first came out in February 1984 in Amsterdam as the E28 first generation. Two thousand more models were hand-built in the next three years, and then succeeded with 50,000 M5s that have spanned four generations. Unfortunately little improvement is seen in the latest F10 generation BMW M5 super-saloon. Fewer packing cylinders are seen in the new model, a serious downgrade from the faster and more powerful saloon. So how does the current M5 fare considering its once glamorous predecessors?

Pros

In terms of power, the BMW M5 engine contains a 4.4-litre aluminum 90deg V8 that is fueled by two twin-scroll Honeywell turbochargers. At 552bhp from 6000rpm to 7000rpm and with a rev at 7200rpm, the V8 boasts of more power than the V10. According to BMW, this baby is considered one of the M series finest in terms of throttle response and high-rev fireworks. The V8 also boasts of 502lb ft from 1500 to 5750 rpm, a huge improvement at 30 per cent more torque than the previous generation. The 30 per cent increase also applies to fuel efficiency, plus a 50 per cent enhancement to the cruising range.

The BMW M5 also hosts other changes, such as a robust, light, yet strong and simple suspension, as well as electro-hydraulic power steering. Double wishbones still appear at the front, along with the rear’s multi-links. Aluminum chassis members have also been forged, along with a wider front track size. Other noted improvements are the adaptive dampers and the progressive rate springs.

The interior also impresses with its practicality, luxury, and quality. Headroom and legroom are spacious enough in all five seats. Drivers and passengers are treated to soft extended merino leather, along with other features such as a DAB radio, a head up display, and adaptive bi-xenon headlights. One distracting downside, however, is the Active Sound Design system. This system redirects the V8’s sound to the audio speakers and can be controlled according to specific frequencies and volumes. You can even take live data on the road speed data and throttle load from the ECU itself. 

Cons

The performance of the BMW M5 can either be a hit or a miss. Throttle can get out of hand and overwhelm anyone who underestimates the vehicle’s accelerative potential. You’ll end up having to activate the DSC stability control midway and lose that speedy momentum you’re after with a BMW. Turning off the DSC, on the other hand, also spins out the engine’s power. You’ll have to take extra care by using only 80 per cent of the throttle at first gear. Short shift into the second so you can push flat the right hand pedal. Once you’ve done all these, you can cruise through that acceleration in full force. Speed persists in the seven-speed, dual-clutch M DCT transmission, letting the car pace through each velocity with the right precision. Auto mode will readily ease you into specific presets of your choice but shift into manual and you’ll be becoming one with the journey as the M5 quickly responds to each transition.

The BMW M5 was first introduced at the Amsterdam Motor Show of 1984 as a high performance sports sedan. The M5 was built from the E12 5-Series, melding the M535i body with the M90 engine. Its latest model, the F10 M5, was introduced to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show of 2011 and was cited for its better fuel economy.

The M5 was built as demands for a sedan-type sports car emerged. The launching of the first generation of M5, the E28 in 1985, placed high regard for BMW’s sedans. The E28 was the fastest of its kind during its time, and enjoyed increased production for markets in Europe, the United States and Canada.

The E34 M5 was manufactured between 1989 and 1995 and was, like its predecessor, entirely hand-built. This series also introduced the first wagon in the BMW M Line. The E34 generated a number of limited-edition versions and has also been raced in motorsport.

The E39, produced from 1998 to 2003, was the first factory assembled M Line. This was succeeded by the E60, the most successful M5 to date. The E60 was the first sedan to use a V10 petrol engine. The Formula One-inspired engines in the series give the M5 superior power and efficiency.