BMW M5 (1999 - 2003)
MODELS COVERED: (4 dr saloon, 4.9 petrol [M5])
BY ANDY ENRIGHT
BMWs 1999-on M5 was the car that started the horsepower war in Germany. Before this super-saloon arrived, 400bhp was a virtually unheard of figure for a sports-minded executive saloon to be developing. Once
BMW had set the new standard however, a host of imitators appeared with even more power. But more power doesnt mean more desirable.
Many still believe this M5 to be the pick of like-minded cars in its sector. Heres our guide to finding yourself the best one possible.
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There arent too many surprises with a 5 Series. You know its going to be beautifully built, great to drive, understated and well equipped and the
BMW M5 is no exception. Once upon a time, for supercar performance, you had to buy a supercar. A cramped coupe in other words, with hardly enough space for a change of clothes in the boot.
Then along came the M5. Launched in 1984, this was the first of a new breed of super saloon - the ultimate 'Q Car'. No stripes or spoilers. In fact nothing to indicate that this one and three quarter tonne family four-door could out-accelerate (and arguably out-handle) a
Porsche 911. Not surprisingly, the concept caught on amongst the shy but successful.
As sales increased, so did the power on offer - from 286bhp to 315bhp and 340bhp by the time production stopped in 1995. After that, BMW abandoned the super-saloon market to Mercedes and
Jaguar, hoping that their V8-powered 540i would keep them in with a shout. It didn't. Which is why this M5 does the job properly. Under the bonnet lies one of the most powerful engines ever to be fitted to a production car of any kind. It's a 32-valve, quad overhead camshaft 5.0-litre V8 crafted from Alusil - a lightweight aluminium-silicon alloy. The output is an awesome 400bhp - 40% more than the already rapid 540i. Not that the neighbours would ever suspect.
In true M5 tradition, the current model is discreet to the point of anonymity. A subtle front airdam, a tiny boot spoiler, gorgeous alloy wheels, clear indicator lenses, quad exhaust pipes and a small boot badge are the only giveaways. Inside, it's the same. You could be at the wheel of a well-specified 530d were it not for the chrome surrounds of the instruments with their red needles and little touches like the M gearknob which glows red at night. There's even a tyre pressure monitor.
Prices for the M5 were hit by BMWs decision in late 2000 to cut many of their prices, the M5 falling from £63,000 down to a bargain £55,000. As such, early cars can be found for a scarcely credible £18,500 on a 1999 T plate rising to around £35,500 for a 03-plated model. The M5 proposition is otherwise refreshingly simple. No special edition models, no go-faster variants, no Touring estate version and no flim-flam.
Insurance is, predictably, Group 20.
Very little goes wrong with the M5. The oil temperature gauge incorporated into the rev counter reminds users not to thrash the car from cold and most who buy these cars are knowledgeable types in any case. The black chromed alloy wheels are hideously prone to kerbing and its worth taking a good look at them for damage. When paying this sort of money you should expect the best and negotiate big discounts for tired interiors or less than cosmetically perfect bodywork.
Avoid aftermarket accessories as these will dent the resale value and check for crash damage and that it is clear of outstanding finance.
(approx based on a 2000 M5 ) BMW spares have gained an enviable reputation for quality and value and consumables are distinctly affordable. An air filter is around £20, whilst youll pay a similar amount for a fuel filter. Oil filters are around £8, whilst spark plugs are £21. A replacement cam belt is around £28.
Opt for the M5 and you get the sort of performance that embarrasses many temperamental two-
seat exotics. With 400bhp on tap, the M5 will accelerate to its 155mph maximum accompanied by a magnificent hard-edged V8 soundtrack. Sixty mph is despatched in just over five seconds and the handling is particularly exciting if you enjoy switching off the traction control, drifting it sideways and receiving big Amex bills for tyres.
Despite a whole host of more modern rivals challenging BMWs crown, many enthusiasts would say that the M5 has never been eclipsed. After a brief drive in a well looked after used example youll see what theyre raving about. It may no longer be with us but this M5 still has it.
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