Wiesmann MF5 GT
The Wiesmann MF5 GT was one of the most distinctive and exhilarating cars produced in Germany during the early 2010s. Built by the Wiesmann brothers, Martin and Friedhelm, at their gecko-shaped factory in Dulmen, the MF5 GT combined a classic, almost art-deco-inspired body with the most extreme engine BMW ever built for a road car: the S85 5.0-liter V10.
The S85 V10, borrowed directly from the BMW M5 (E60) and M6, was a naturally aspirated masterpiece. Producing 507 hp at a screaming 7,750 rpm, the V10 revved with an intensity and mechanical passion that made lesser engines feel pedestrian. In the lightweight Wiesmann body (1,380 kg), the V10 provided acceleration that rivaled far more expensive supercars — 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 311 km/h.
The Wiesmann's styling was deliberately retro. The long hood, short deck proportions, round headlamps, and flowing fenders evoked prewar grand tourers and 1960s sports cars. The body was handcrafted from aluminum and composite materials at the Dulmen factory, where each car received months of individual attention. The build quality was exceptional, with the kind of hand-finished details that mass-production cannot replicate.
The chassis was pure modern sports car. Double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, adjustable dampers, and a rigid structure provided handling that belied the car's classic appearance. The MF5 GT was a serious driving machine that could hold its own on a race track, not merely a pretty shape with mediocre dynamics.
The interior continued the blend of classic and modern. Hand-stitched leather, brushed aluminum, and classic-style gauges created a unique ambiance, while modern BMW electronics (including iDrive on some versions) provided contemporary functionality. The GT designation indicated a coupe body with a fixed roof — a roadster version was also available.
Wiesmann ceased production in 2013 due to financial difficulties, making the MF5 GT the final flowering of this unique marque. Approximately 55 MF5 GT coupes were built, each one a testament to the Wiesmann brothers' belief that a car could be beautiful, fast, and hand-crafted in equal measure. The MF5 GT stands as proof that small-volume manufacturers can create cars that rival the best from established marques — if the passion and engineering skill are present.
Wiesmann was revived under new ownership in 2016, but the original MF5 GT remains the definitive Wiesmann product — the perfect intersection of BMW's finest engine and German coachbuilding craftsmanship.
The MF5 GT is rare (approximately 55 built) and increasingly sought-after. The BMW S85 V10 is the primary mechanical concern — check for rod bearing wear (the S85's known Achilles heel, similar to the M5/M6), throttle actuator failures, and VANOS issues. The SMG III automated manual can be jerky at low speeds and the hydraulic pump can fail. Some owners have converted to a traditional manual gearbox. The hand-built body is expensive to repair — any panel work requires specialist coachbuilders. Verify the car's service history through Wiesmann specialists. The retro styling is polarizing — ensure it suits your taste before committing. Wiesmann's revival means parts support should continue.
Approximately 55 MF5 GT coupes were built between 2009 and 2013. The MF5 Roadster was also available with the same V10 powertrain. Total Wiesmann production across all models (MF3, MF4, MF5) was around 1,500 units over the company's history. Wiesmann filed for insolvency in 2013 and was later revived under new ownership. The BMW S85 V10 was also available in the MF5 Roadster.