2021 BMW M5 Competition

The F90-generation BMW M5 Competition represents the high-water mark of the super-saloon formula: a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 producing 616bhp, funnelled through xDrive four-wheel drive and a ZF eight-speed Steptronic gearbox. The Competition variant adds recalibrated adaptive dampers, an uprated engine map, and a 50rpm higher rev ceiling over the standard M5 — subtle changes that meaningfully sharpen the car's character without sacrificing daily usability. This 2021 example has covered 31,551 miles in blue.

The options list is well chosen. Black 20-inch M Light Double Spoke 706M wheels and gloss-black M compound brake callipers give the exterior a purposeful, understated look. Inside, full black Merino leather with the Comfort Plus Pack adds heated seats and steering wheel, M Multifunctional Seats with memory function for driver and front passenger, and a Head-Up Display — a combination that suits a car that works equally well on a long motorway run as it does on a B-road.

With 750 lb-ft of torque, a 3.3-second 0-62 time, and an electronically limited 155mph top speed, the M5 Competition's performance credentials are well established. What the numbers don't convey is how accessible that performance is: xDrive keeps the car planted even at full throttle, and in its more relaxed modes it passes entirely convincingly as a well-appointed saloon. At this mileage and age, it represents the F90 in its prime.