1999 BMW M5 5.0 Liter V8 32 valve
Summary:
Fastest sedan there is (but Mercedes and Audi are closing in)
Faults:
One of the rear Parking Distance Control sensors has failed. Replaced.
Engine problem (still not completely sorted I think). All spark plugs were replaced and the two Lambda sensors and one of the camshaft sensors.
Right mirror sometimes did not fold out in in. Solved; contacts were dirty.
Rain sensor (automatic wiper function) failed; has been re-initialized and seems to work okay now.
On Board Computer display (below the dails) is losing pixels.
General Comments:
I think the 8-series is better constructed (I also own an 850i from 1992). When braking hard you can hear the doors 'settle'. The 8 doesn't have this problem (less doors of course).
The M5 is a very fast car. It will spin its wheels very easily (even in third gear). When driving above 200 km/h (in sixth gear), it will still push you back in the chair when putting down the gas pedal. It is VERY fast.
The cup holders are very breakable. The two in the back have been broken several times now.
The original gear lever was partly aluminum. This did not last very long. This type of gearlever is no longer in production. I had it replaced by a leather one (less fancy) instead.
The radio and On Board Computer have a poorly designed interface and react very slow to button presses. Changing a track on the CD or a station on the radio will take a second or so and there is no conformation beep or something. The Navigation system is also very slow. The telephone works well, but is also slow.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 10th September, 2003
11th Sep 2003, 02:49
Very interesting write up and with an 8 series and an M5 your are one lucky guy!
Don
95 52iA.
12th Jan 2006, 08:03
M5, Fastest Sedan?
No, I don't think so. I think it's Mercedes S65 AMG. Although, it's electronically limited speed of 155 mph isn't the top speed in the Sedan category, but the acceleration from 0-60 in 4.3 seconds is. Once delimited it can go well over 190 mph. Also, think about Bentley Flying Spur which boasts a 190+ mph speed, but it still is slower in acceleration than the S65.
10th Sep 2003, 23:51
Fastest sedan? That will be the Holden GTS-R then. 530 BHP. Second fastest production sedan, that will be the LOtus Carlton then...