The BMW E60 M5, produced from 2005 to 2010, is one of the most legendary super saloons ever built. At its heart sits the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V10, known as the S85—an engine inspired by Formula 1 technology and engineered to deliver an unforgettable driving experience. At launch, the car was seen as a bold statement from BMW: a four-door sedan capable of both blistering performance and daily usability. Nearly two decades later, the E60 M5 still attracts enthusiasts who want something truly special, though its appeal comes with a reputation for steep ownership costs and complex maintenance requirements.
Powering the M5 is the S85 V10, an engine unlike anything BMW had built before or since. Producing 500 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque, it thrives on revs, delivering its best performance as it charges toward an astonishing 8,250 rpm redline. This high-revving nature was a remarkable achievement in a sedan, firmly placing the M5 in supercar territory when it debuted. Paired with BMW’s F1-inspired seven-speed SMG transmission—or the rarer six-speed manual offered in the U.S.—the car could sprint from 0–60 mph in around 4.5 seconds.
What truly sets the E60 M5 apart, however, is the character of its engine. The howl of the V10, a blend of mechanical precision and motorsport drama, remains one of the car’s most defining traits. Beyond the raw numbers, the S85 feels alive and eager to rev, delivering an experience shaped by urgency, sound, and the thrill of wringing every last rpm from one of BMW’s most daring creations.
The Appeal of the V10 Super Saloon
The S85 is the car’s crown jewel, a powerplant that gives the M5 a personality unmatched by its turbocharged successors. It offers a visceral, high-revving character that makes every drive memorable. Combined with a chassis that balances comfort with sharp handling, the E60 M5 is a true dual-purpose machine—equally at home cruising the highway as it is attacking corners on a racetrack. For enthusiasts chasing the dream of owning a naturally aspirated V10, the E60 remains one of the most accessible and rewarding options.
The Harsh Realities of Ownership
As thrilling as it is, the E60 M5 is also demanding. The engine’s rod bearings are the most critical weak point; failure without replacement can be catastrophic, which is why most specialists recommend changing them between 60,000 and 80,000 miles. The VANOS variable valve timing system is another known issue, prone to leaks and expensive component failures, while throttle actuators often require replacement. Even routine oil changes call for BMW’s specific 10W60 lubricant, and neglecting service only accelerates wear.
The transmission is another area of concern. The SMG automated manual dominates the market and has a reputation for hydraulic pump failures that are expensive to repair. The six-speed manual avoids SMG’s pitfalls but still carries high clutch and flywheel replacement costs.
Electronics bring their own headaches. Early-generation iDrive units often suffer hardware issues, and like many aging luxury cars, the E60 M5 is no stranger to random electrical gremlins. Given the age of these cars, deferred maintenance from prior owners can quickly translate into eye-watering repair bills for the next buyer.
What to Do Before You Buy
A thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a BMW specialist is essential. This isn’t just a formality—it’s the only way to verify whether rod bearings have been replaced, whether the SMG system is still functioning properly, and whether the electronics are in good health. Service history is equally vital. Cars maintained on a budget are best avoided, as catching up on neglected maintenance often costs more than the car itself.
Many owners choose to “bulletproof” their M5s by proactively replacing weak components such as rod bearings, VANOS lines, and throttle actuators before they fail. Tires add to the expense, costing around $1,200 per set and wearing quickly under spirited driving. Fuel economy is predictably poor, often hovering around 14 mpg in the U.S., but such compromises are part of the V10 super saloon experience.
Final Thoughts
The E60 M5 is not a car for everyone. It requires commitment—both financial and mechanical—and casual ownership usually ends in frustration. But for enthusiasts prepared to respect its needs, few cars offer the same rewards. The howl of the V10 at full throttle, the balance of a finely tuned chassis, and the satisfaction of driving one of BMW’s most audacious engineering feats make it truly unforgettable.
For buyers willing to take the plunge, the E60 M5 can be one of the most satisfying purchases you’ll ever make. For those unprepared, it’s best admired from a distance—because this is a car that punishes shortcuts but rewards dedication with every mile.
Looking for an E60 M5?
If this buyer’s guide has you itching to experience the V10 for yourself, make sure to check out the BMW M5 listings on Bavarian Vault’s Classifieds. Whether you’re searching for a pristine collector’s example or a well-maintained driver, Bav Vault curates BMW-only listings with the standards enthusiasts expect.
BMW E60 M5 : What to Know Before You Buy
The BMW E60 M5, produced from 2005 to 2010, is one of the most legendary super saloons ever built. At its heart sits the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V10, known as the S85—an engine inspired by Formula 1 technology and engineered to deliver an unforgettable driving experience. At launch, the car was seen as a bold statement from BMW: a four-door sedan capable of both blistering performance and daily usability. Nearly two decades later, the E60 M5 still attracts enthusiasts who want something truly special, though its appeal comes with a reputation for steep ownership costs and complex maintenance requirements.
Powering the M5 is the S85 V10, an engine unlike anything BMW had built before or since. Producing 500 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque, it thrives on revs, delivering its best performance as it charges toward an astonishing 8,250 rpm redline. This high-revving nature was a remarkable achievement in a sedan, firmly placing the M5 in supercar territory when it debuted. Paired with BMW’s F1-inspired seven-speed SMG transmission—or the rarer six-speed manual offered in the U.S.—the car could sprint from 0–60 mph in around 4.5 seconds.
What truly sets the E60 M5 apart, however, is the character of its engine. The howl of the V10, a blend of mechanical precision and motorsport drama, remains one of the car’s most defining traits. Beyond the raw numbers, the S85 feels alive and eager to rev, delivering an experience shaped by urgency, sound, and the thrill of wringing every last rpm from one of BMW’s most daring creations.
The Appeal of the V10 Super Saloon
The S85 is the car’s crown jewel, a powerplant that gives the M5 a personality unmatched by its turbocharged successors. It offers a visceral, high-revving character that makes every drive memorable. Combined with a chassis that balances comfort with sharp handling, the E60 M5 is a true dual-purpose machine—equally at home cruising the highway as it is attacking corners on a racetrack. For enthusiasts chasing the dream of owning a naturally aspirated V10, the E60 remains one of the most accessible and rewarding options.
The Harsh Realities of Ownership
As thrilling as it is, the E60 M5 is also demanding. The engine’s rod bearings are the most critical weak point; failure without replacement can be catastrophic, which is why most specialists recommend changing them between 60,000 and 80,000 miles. The VANOS variable valve timing system is another known issue, prone to leaks and expensive component failures, while throttle actuators often require replacement. Even routine oil changes call for BMW’s specific 10W60 lubricant, and neglecting service only accelerates wear.
The transmission is another area of concern. The SMG automated manual dominates the market and has a reputation for hydraulic pump failures that are expensive to repair. The six-speed manual avoids SMG’s pitfalls but still carries high clutch and flywheel replacement costs.
Electronics bring their own headaches. Early-generation iDrive units often suffer hardware issues, and like many aging luxury cars, the E60 M5 is no stranger to random electrical gremlins. Given the age of these cars, deferred maintenance from prior owners can quickly translate into eye-watering repair bills for the next buyer.
What to Do Before You Buy
A thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a BMW specialist is essential. This isn’t just a formality—it’s the only way to verify whether rod bearings have been replaced, whether the SMG system is still functioning properly, and whether the electronics are in good health. Service history is equally vital. Cars maintained on a budget are best avoided, as catching up on neglected maintenance often costs more than the car itself.
Many owners choose to “bulletproof” their M5s by proactively replacing weak components such as rod bearings, VANOS lines, and throttle actuators before they fail. Tires add to the expense, costing around $1,200 per set and wearing quickly under spirited driving. Fuel economy is predictably poor, often hovering around 14 mpg in the U.S., but such compromises are part of the V10 super saloon experience.
Final Thoughts
The E60 M5 is not a car for everyone. It requires commitment—both financial and mechanical—and casual ownership usually ends in frustration. But for enthusiasts prepared to respect its needs, few cars offer the same rewards. The howl of the V10 at full throttle, the balance of a finely tuned chassis, and the satisfaction of driving one of BMW’s most audacious engineering feats make it truly unforgettable.
For buyers willing to take the plunge, the E60 M5 can be one of the most satisfying purchases you’ll ever make. For those unprepared, it’s best admired from a distance—because this is a car that punishes shortcuts but rewards dedication with every mile.
Looking for an E60 M5?
If this buyer’s guide has you itching to experience the V10 for yourself, make sure to check out the BMW M5 listings on Bavarian Vault’s Classifieds. Whether you’re searching for a pristine collector’s example or a well-maintained driver, Bav Vault curates BMW-only listings with the standards enthusiasts expect.
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