as far as raw performance goes, Viper is way ahead First, no flame war please! I currently have a 99 540i Sport and am on the waiting list for 01 M5. Absolutely love the car, but I made the mistake of driving a friend's Viper. The torque on that car is intoxicating! How does it (torque) compare in feel to the M5. I haven't had the chance to drive a new M5 yet. The Viper is obviously crude compared to an M5, so don't bother with lectures about better handling and/or luxury. I may end up with both cars over the next several years.