The BMW M5: A Legacy of Speed and Performance
Few cars capture the essence of automotive passion quite like the BMW M5. From its humble beginnings in 1984, the M5 has carved a unique path, relentlessly pushing boundaries in performance, technology, and driving thrill.
Forty years later, the latest G90 generation is here, solidifying its position as the ultimate driving machine. It’s a fitting moment to look back at how this legend evolved, starting with its groundbreaking debut:
The Groundbreaker: E28 (1984-1988)
Born out of BMW’s dedication to performance, the inaugural E28 M5 shocked the world. Unveiled at the 1985 AutoRAI show in Amsterdam, this sedan claimed the title of the fastest four-door car, propelled by a 3.5-liter straight-six engine that hummed with 286 horsepower – a derivative of the iconic M1 supercar. This potent beast could sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 6.5 seconds, topping out at 152 mph. Its featherlight construction and nimble handling made it a true driver’s delight.
With only 2,241 units produced, the E28 M5 has become a coveted collector’s item, commanding a hefty price tag of €50,000 or more on today’s market.
Refined Powerhouse: E34 (1988-1995)
The second generation embraced a more sophisticated approach. While adding a touch more comfort and shedding some agility, the E34 M5 gained a bold new design, a coveted station wagon variant, and a boosted 3.6-liter straight-six, cranking out 315 horsepower, even reaching 340 horsepower after its 1992 facelift. This generation cemented its performance credentials with a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.9 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph.
Prices start around €20,000 for the sedan, while the rare and highly sought-after wagon version commands upwards of €50,000.
A Timeless Classic: E39 (1998-2003)
The E39 M5 often holds a revered status among enthusiasts, lauded for its blend of modern comforts, a thrilling 4.9-liter naturally aspirated V8 delivering 400 horsepower, and intoxicating driving dynamics, enhanced by its precise six-speed manual gearbox. Its design remains timeless, embodying the golden age of BMW styling.
Finding one in pristine condition is a rare feat, with low-mileage examples fetching well over €40,000.
Bold Statement: E60/E61 (2004-2010)
Stepping away from subtlety, the E60 M5 showcased a dramatic design by Chris Bangle, coupled with a roaring 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, borrowed from the marque’s Formula One ambitions.
With an output of 507 horsepower and a dizzying 8,250 rpm redline, the E60 M5 thundered to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 190 mph. A noteworthy caveat – the controversial SMG transmission sometimes delivered abrupt shifts. In the North American market, a manual option was offered. Expect to shell out around €35,000 for a well-maintained example, with the rarer wagon, the E61 M5 Touring, fetching a significantly higher price tag. Remember, a V10 demands meticulous care!
Modern Muscle: F10 (2011-2016)
The F10 generation marked a departure, adopting a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. Generating between 560 and 600 horsepower, it shared its engine with numerous other M models.
The F10’s more understated styling wasn’t as popular as its predecessors, but prices remain attractive, hovering around €35,000, with rare specials, such as the powerful 30 Years edition, fetching slightly higher prices.
Pushing Boundaries: F90 (2017-2023)
Taking a leap forward, the F90 M5 broke the mold with standard all-wheel drive. Paired with 600-635 horsepower, it unleashed blistering performance, rocketing to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds!
Despite its all-wheel drive prowess, the F90 is surprisingly lightweight, particularly its coveted 2021 CS edition, shedding 116 kg compared to the standard car.
Still relatively fresh, expect to find pre-owned F90s starting around €60,000, with the rare CS variant pushing upwards of €140,000.
Electrified Evolution: G90 (2024-present)
Now, we arrive at the latest chapter: the G90. Featuring a potent hybrid powertrain combining a 4.4-liter V8 engine with electric assistance, delivering 727 horsepower and a staggering 1,000 Nm of torque, coupled with a 67-km electric driving range, this iteration promises both electrifying performance and cutting-edge technology. Adding further allure, BMW resurrects the iconic Touring wagon, offering a harmonious blend of practicality and exhilarating performance.
Pricing for the sedan begins at €144,150, with the M5 Touring commanding €147,150.
New era for the M5, blending cutting-edge technology with raw power. Equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine generating an astounding 560 horsepower, the F10 could sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds. With a host of advanced driver assistance systems and luxury features, this generation appealed to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking comfort and refinement. Pricing for the F10 models typically starts around €30,000.
The New Era: G90 (2022-Present)
Fast forward to today, and the G90 generation is redefining performance once more. With innovation at its core, this iteration of the M5 harnesses a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that pushes out an exhilarating 600 horsepower, ensuring the M5 remains at the forefront of automotive technology. A highlight of the G90 is its intuitive integration of hybrid technology, further amplifying efficiency without sacrificing the thrilling drive that the M5 is known for.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Automotive Expert, Dr. Lisa Hartman
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Hartman! It’s a pleasure to have you here today to discuss the iconic BMW M5, a car that has shaped the automotive landscape over the last four decades.
Dr. Hartman: Thank you! It’s great to be here. The M5 is indeed a fascinating subject, representing a remarkable blend of performance and technological prowess.
Editor: Let’s start at the beginning. The E28 M5 debuted in 1984, and it’s often regarded as the genesis of an automotive legend. What do you think set it apart from other vehicles at the time?
Dr. Hartman: The E28 M5 was a game-changer because it was the first performance-oriented sedan on the market. It combined luxury with extraordinary power from a 3.5-liter straight-six engine, which was groundbreaking. This car proved that sedans could deliver sports car performance, a concept that had not been fully explored before.
Editor: It truly was a revelation! Fast forward to the G90 generation, which we see today. How does it compare to its early predecessors?
Dr. Hartman: The G90 builds on the legacy of its ancestors by integrating modern technology into its DNA. While earlier M5s focused on raw power and lightweight construction, the G90 balances power — with up to 600 horsepower — with efficiency through hybrid technology. It offers a level of sophistication and driver assistance that enhances the driving experience without the compromise that might have come in earlier models.
Editor: Speaking of hybrids, many enthusiasts might wonder if this shift to hybrid technology dilutes the M5’s raw performance heritage. What’s your take?
Dr. Hartman: That’s a valid concern, but the way BMW has approached hybridization keeps the spirit of the M5 intact. The G90’s hybrid system is designed to enhance performance rather than detract from it. The integration of hybrid technology can actually provide quicker acceleration and improved performance metrics without sacrificing the thrill of driving.
Editor: It’s fascinating how the M5 has evolved. What characteristics have remained consistent throughout its generations?
Dr. Hartman: The core tenets of the M5 — high performance, exceptional handling, and a thrilling driving experience — have remained unchanged. Each generation has pushed the envelope further while maintaining that essential BMW driving ethos. Regardless of technological advancements, the heart of the M5 pulsates with a blend of power, agility, and engaging dynamics that enthusiasts crave.
Editor: That passion undoubtedly drives collectors as well. The E28, for instance, has become quite the collector’s item. Why do you think that particular model resonates so much with enthusiasts?
Dr. Hartman: The E28 M5 is pivotal not just for its performance before it was even a trend, but its sheer rarity today. With only 2,241 units produced, owning one is like holding a piece of automotive history. Its combination of nostalgia for the era and the fundamental characteristics that made the M5 an icon creates a strong allure for collectors.
Editor: As we look to the future, what do you envision for the M5? Will it continue adapting with changing automotive trends?
Dr. Hartman: I believe the M5 will continue to evolve with the growing focus on sustainability and technology, while still remaining true to its performance roots. BMW has a rich history of innovation, so I expect to see the M5 not only embrace electrification but also introduce advancements in driving dynamics and connectivity that keep it competitive and thrilling for the next generation of car enthusiasts.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hartman, for sharing your insights into the BMW M5 legacy. It’s thrilling to think about where this iconic model will go from here!
Dr. Hartman: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see how the M5 continues to inspire passion and excitement in the automotive world.