Re: M5 vs. 540-all around drivability (archive)

I owned a '97 540/6 and I now own a '00 M5. My advice is this: Whatever you do, do NOT get an early production BMW. I loved my 540/6, but it was one of the first ones made and was in the shop all the time.

I love my '00 M5, but it was also a very early production (10/99) and it too is having some "challenges."

In fact, from now on I will never buy a first year run of ANY BMW, but rather wait for the second year of production. (By contrast my '95 911 was also a very early production of the 993 and the car has been just perfect for six years.)

The 540/6 is a great car. Before waiting for the next 5, better check out the new 5 series bodystyle. It's got a hatchback look that--to some--may make it look more like an economy car.

I have seen I few posts in the archives comparing the performance of the M5 and the 540/6, but I would appreciate any comments comparing overall drivability and long-term use.

The M5 unquestionably performs better, but how would these two cars compare, say over a long drive? Is it more work to clutch,shift, and steer the M5? Would you become more quickly fatigued on a long trip? Would it be a pain in stop-and-go rush hour traffic?

Do most M5 owners reserve the car for fair weather? Would you put snow tires on it and go skiing?

I guess I am wondering if the M5 is strictly suited to performance driving in good weather, or whether it can be used as an all-around car that also happens to be one of the fastest sedans on the planet?

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ M5 Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.