You'll probably never find any logical, practical or financially sound reason for buying a car like the M5. Cars like it are built to defy reasons. But as I've experienced, once you have one, you'll toss all those concerns out the window. I've never been so in love, yes IN LOVE, with a car (please don't anyone tell my wife..haha). I simply can't place a value on the profound affection I have for this car and I'm soooo damn happy I decided to upgrade from my 545 to this.

I do have a comment on people's concern about the harshness of this car though. I have 20" wheels and my car is lowered on the most aggressive springs on the market yet I use this car as a daily driver and have no issues with the comfort level. With a stock M5, EDC gives you 3 levels of adjustability on the shocks and I don't see how anyone could complain with the Soft and Normal settings (Sport setting is definitely firm). Even my wife's driven my car and has never complained.

Of course, this is not to say I think lowly of the 550. I think both cars are great. I just personally don't think the comparison is valid.

 

I have driven the M5 several times, but have never driven the 550, so I can only comment on the M5.
The M5 is scary fast with tons of power. Around town it is a bit harsh and the gas mileage is ridiculous. It gets about 10mpg and only has a 18 gallon tank!! I cannot imagine driving a car like this on a daily basis. The amazing performance is simply not worth the price of admission and cost of ownership IMO. Even though I have not driven the 550, I would still take it over the M5. Good luck with your decision.

 

I contemplated an M5 before buying my 550i sport. Back then the SMG-only-M5 made the decision easy for me.

You say that you want to keep the car for 6+ years and perhaps up to 100k mi. I would say that the 550i is a smarter choice. While driving the M5, I spent a lot of time in the 5000+ rpm range. Frankly, below that the motor is somewhat unimpressive, whereas in the 550 I rarely exceed 5000 rpms when I'm not on the highway (passing). I'm no engineer, but higher rpms = higher engine wear which is relevant in the long rong. Also, the poor milage adds up with gas heading towards $4/gal.

My two cents: get the M if you absolutely require the M status and/or are a race driver/uber enthusiast. If you are contemplating the M because its a bit faster, stick with the 550.

DRP

 

Call Park Ave BMW in Maywood, NJ. They have a GORGEOUS 2006 silverstone/red CPO in stock. Talk to Aemon.

 

My 2 cents:

I owned an E34 M5 - It was best car I have ever owned, unbeveliably good in so many ways. A cruel mistress though, always needing oil, costly servicing etc.

Now I have a 545 I love it also, 90% of the "M-ness" (so far) without the pain.

Verdict:

My next car will be an M5 (all things being equal), but ONLY under warranty, to be sold after 3yrs. I will never again own an M which is not supported by the factory.

Remember the flame that burns brightest - burns for the shortest amount of time....

If you want it to keep for for 10 years go for the 550i I think.

Cheers
stu

 

IMO an M5 is for driving, which you can't really do in countries that have posted speed limits everywhere, let alone city or stop and go traffic.

Even so, I don't think the car is that bad - but like the other posts say, there will be sacrifices.

 

the ONLY difference (s)

slightly better ride (550, non - sport oriented mind you)
faster.... and its an ///M

i say go for the m5 if you money. i know i would have.

i still love my 550 though!

 

Not a lot I can add that hasn't already been said, except to give my vote for the 550i... WITH MANUAL & SPORT PACKAGE!

 

Kwistu is absolutely right. The new M5 also tend to burn oil. Especialy when treated hard! And it is absolutely normal! But to buy an M5 You have to love it and that kind of concernes shouldn,t bother You so I think it will be better to stay with an 550!

 

I agree. The 550 is definitely the way to go.