Autocar are a fortunate bunch, getting to take long-term ownership of some pretty impressive cars. One of which is the brand-new BMW M5, which they’ve had for about a month now and have already done 3,360 miles in. It’s naturally a pretty popular car at the Autocar office and it’s already gone through their gauntlet of tests. So how do they feel about it after a month? Apparently, they like it quite a bit.
Since they’ve taken delivery of their long-term M5, Autocar has put it through two comparison tests, one against the Mercedes-AMG E63 S and one against the ALPINA B5, and multiple photo and video shoots. It’s been a workhorse and it hasn’t given them any issues yet. But the one standout quality of the M5 that’s garnering the most attention is its breadth of abilities.
With a 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 under hood, the BMW M5 makes 600 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. When paired with its eight-speed auto and all-wheel drive, it’s capable of 0-60 mph in the low three-second range, with it being capable of faster times with careful launches. So it’s supercar fast. Seriously, Autocar claims that it’s not far off the Ferrari 458 Speciale over a standing kilometer.
But it’s not just brutally fast, it also handles really well and has the agility of a supercar, rather than a super sedan. So it’s really quite impressive. The most impressive bit, though, is that it’s also good at being comfortable and calm. While it may not be as good at that as the ALPINA B5, it’s certainly good enough. You can comfortably cruise in the M5, in a serene cabin with comfortable seats. The duality of the M5 is remarkable.
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“What I can tell you is that I can’t think of another car that, when it comes to trying to be both engaging and sporty, and yet also luxurious and comfy, is so complete in its dynamic make-up.” said Autocar’s Matt Prior. That’s high praise, indeed, and it’s only been a month.
[Source: Autocar]
