Japan vs Germany — 1992 vs 2005
| Galant VR-4 E39A | M5 E60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 507 hp |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,498 cc | 4,999 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,439 lbs | 3,868 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,635 mm | 2,889 mm |
| Length | 4,640 mm | 4,855 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 20,589 |
| Original MSRP | — | $85,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1992 Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A brings lighter weight, better value to the table, and the 2005 BMW M5 E60 answers with more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1992 Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 E39A versus 2005 BMW M5 E60 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2005 BMW M5 E60 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 507 hp compared to 280 hp, a 227-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 uses a V6 DOHC Twin-Turbo displacing 2,498 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 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 429 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.