The only V10 M5 — the world's first V10 production saloon.
The fourth-generation M5 remains the only V10-powered M5 and the world's first production saloon with a V10 engine — a Formula 1-inspired unit conceived when BMW was deep in grand prix. Backed by a seven-speed single-clutch SMG gearbox, a head-up display and driver-configurable electronics, it was a technological statement.
Europe also got an E61 Touring; North America uniquely got a six-speed manual. Its high-revving character and analogue-adjacent drama have made it a modern-classic favourite despite a fearsome running-cost reputation.
The only V10 M5 and the first V10 production saloon — a clear historical hook underwriting its modern-classic status.
| Variant | Years | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| M5 Saloon (SMG) | 2005–2010 | 19,522 saloons total | S85 5.0 V10, ~500 bhp / 507 PS, 520 Nm, 8,250 rpm redline; 7-speed SMG III single-clutch automated manual; world's first V10 production saloon. |
| M5 Saloon (6-speed manual) | 2007–2010 | Part of saloon total | North America only; conventional six-speed manual; the enthusiast's pick. |
| M5 Touring (E61) | 2007–2010 | 1,025 | Europe only; SMG III; first V10 production estate. |
Authenticate stamped chassis and engine numbers against factory or club records. For the E60/E61 M5 specifically, verify gearbox variant (SMG vs US-only manual), Touring provenance where applicable, and documented major service history (rod bearings, SMG pump, VANOS).
Confirm body originality, panel identity and restoration standard against a marque specialist.
Confirm continuous service history and any rebuild history for the engine, transmission and driveline against a marque specialist.
Restoration standard, originality of body and driveline, and any documented ownership record are the main value drivers.
Regional ranges authored independently — each reflects its local market, not an FX conversion
Each region quoted in its local currency — independent market readings, not FX conversions
Once cheap and feared for its running costs, the E60 M5 has moved into modern-classic territory on the strength of its unrepeatable V10. Manual saloons lead the US market, the Touring is the rarity prize in Europe, and sorted cars with documented major service history (rod bearings, SMG pump, VANOS) trade well clear of neglected ones. Condition and receipts are everything here.
Authored against aggregate public-market data and named price guides as set out in What to Pay; regional readings are independent, not FX conversions.
| Date | Auction | Car | Mileage | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 2026 | Bring a Trailer Bring a Trailer | 2006 M5 (original owner, unmodified) | 3,400 mi | $149,000 Sold |
The only V10 M5 and the first V10 production saloon, the E60 has a clear historical hook that supports its transition from depreciated performance car to appreciating modern classic. The manual and Touring variants lead; well-maintained, fully documented examples are separating decisively from the rest.
Our view, not advice. This section is Car Collector International's editorial judgement on where this model sits in the collector market, based on the production, specification and market data set out in this guide. It is not a recommendation to buy or sell and it is not investment advice. Values can fall as well as rise.
Get new buyer's guides and collector market intelligence delivered to your inbox. No spam. We respect your inbox.
The valuation figures in this guide are for research purposes only and do not constitute financial or investment advice. See our full disclaimer.
