BMW M5 signs off with £101k Competition Edition

Published: 22 July 2016

► Competition Edition M5 priced at £101k
► Only 200 examples of run-out BMW
► 592bhp, 0-62mph in 3.9sec

BMW has unveiled the last of the F10 generation of M5s. Dubbed the Competition Edition, and packed with more power, each of the 200 run-out models will cost you £100,995.

How much more power are we talking?

Remember the 30th anniversary ‘Jahre’ edition of the M5? Same power map as that. So, 592bhp and 516 lb ft on tap from the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8. That’s an increase of some 25bhp on the Competition Pack M5 and 40bhp on the standard M5.

The Competition Edition’s top speed is still electronically limited to 155mph, but its 0-62mph time is down to 3.9 seconds – just two tenths off the Audi RS6 Performance edition. The gains are primarily courtesy of a fettled ECU that ekes more boost from the twin-scroll turbochargers, while the sports exhaust system also helps squeeze out a few extra bhp.

Can the chassis take the extra oomph?

The standard-fit M Competition Pack should see to that. It features stiffer springs, thicker anti-roll bars and fettled electronic dampers. The upgrades managed to sharpen up the standard M5 admirably, so the signs are good. Throw in a recalibrated M differential and smoky, tyre-shredding powerslides should be available on-tap for those bold enough to deploy the full output of that twin-turbo V8.

Any other trinkets I should know about?

All M5 Competition Editions will benefit from black Merino leather upholstery and M performance interior detailing. Also standard are 20-in jet black alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights, a reversing camera, an electrically operated boot lid, heated seats and a £3300 Bang & Olufsen audio system.

A smattering of BMW M Performance parts, consisting of a carbonfibre rear spoiler and rear diffuser, completes the high-performance look. You’ve only two exterior colours to choose from – Mineral white and Carbon Black.

If you want one you’d better get down to your nearest BMW dealership fast, as all but a few of the limited run are already sold.

Want to know more about the BMW M5? Take a look at our long-term test

By James Dennison

Head of automotive video for CAR magazine, its sister website Parkers.co.uk and Motorcyle News.

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