With the BMW M5 F90 launched in 2017, a new era begins: for the first time, the M5 adopts `M xDrive` and combines brutal acceleration with almost unreal day-to-day efficiency. Against a contemporary Mercedes C-Class AMG, it feels even more complete thanks to exceptional traction, pace and long-distance ability. That is exactly why a used example has to be technically spotless to remain convincing.
Under the bonnet is a biturbo `S63 V8`, paired with the `8-speed M Steptronic`. The standard M5 makes `600 hp`, while the `Competition` rises to `625 hp`. On this early F90 phase, ignition, oil use, `xDrive` coherence, transfer case, gearbox, brakes and thermal behaviour all need reading as one picture. A good F90 is overwhelming fast yet disciplined; a poor one can become very expensive both electronically and mechanically.