West Germany vs Germany — 1988 vs 2005
| M5 E34 3.8 | M5 E60 V10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 340 hp | 507 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,795 cc | 4,999 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 sec | 4.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 174 mph | 190 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.6 sec | 12.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,814 lbs | 3,869 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,761 mm | 2,889 mm |
| Length | 4,720 mm | 4,855 mm |
| Units Produced | 12,254 | 20,589 |
| Original MSRP | $56,600 | $85,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1988 BMW M5 E34 3.8 offers its unique character, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the BMW M5. The 1988 and 2005 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 507 hp compared to 340 hp, a 167-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M5 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V displacing 3,795 cc, while the BMW M5 relies on a V10 DOHC 40V with 4,999 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 BMW M5 E60 V10 edges ahead at 4.1 seconds versus 5.4 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.