Previously owned:
Audi RS6, BMW M5 (E60), Mercedes E55 AMG,
Why I bought it:
I have had a couple of examples of the previous generation M5, which on the whole I really enjoyed, bar the gearbox which was terrible around town when in drive. I have also loved large forced-induction cars, such as the E55 Kompressor and the RS6, as they have lots of torque and are effortless to drive. The old V10 M5 had to be revved quite high to get the benefit of the power, which in turn killed the fuel consumption.
What I wish I'd known:
The new M5 has had some negative press, as reviews have said that it is not involving enough, but this did not put me off as the M car is so well set up in terms of ride, steering and power delivery.
I feel a great number of journalists fail to consider what is important to the buyer of a car in a given price range when reviewing cars and they simply look at it from their own point of view. They seem more concerned about getting the tail out as opposed to considering what they are like to live with in the driving environment we all encounter day to day.
Things I love:
I love that is so discreet and only those who know what it is know! The build quality is fantastic and I love the attention to detail - the M logo appears on the head-up display when you start the car! It is effortless to drive and one press of the M button and it turns into a rocketship.
Things I hate:
My only wish is that you could a hear a little more of the exhaust/engine
sound, as the cabin is so well insulated.
Costs:
I bought the car from North Oxford BMW and they were fantastic to deal with. I have bought other M cars from them in the past, as they supplied me my 1 M last year. The car was a launch specification, so the cost was £80,709.80 with BMW's Service Inclusive package. Options on my car include 20-inch wheels, rear reversing camera, powered boot lid, comfort access, soft close doors, M multi-function seating, high beam assist, lumbar support for front seating, BMW Professional infotainment, privacy glass and speed limit display. I took out finance with BMW and am paying £729.00 a month over three years, with a final balance to pay of £31,334.46.
Where I've been:
I have just been running it in at present and should be taking it in for its first service at the beginning of February.
What next?
BMW M5 Touring, if they ever launch it.