BMW M5 vs. BMW M5 Competition: A BMW Master Mechanic’s Perspective

Posted Monday, May 01, 2023

The BMW M5 is a legendary high-performance sedan that has been at the forefront of the sports sedan market for decades. However, in recent years, BMW has introduced a new variant of the M5, the M5 Competition. While the two cars may look similar on the outside, they are quite different under the hood. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between the BMW M5 and the BMW M5 Competition from a BMW Master Mechanic's perspective.

Engine and Power

One of the most significant differences between the BMW M5 and the BMW M5 Competition is the engine. The M5 is powered by a 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the M5 Competition has the same engine, but it has been tuned to produce 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This extra power allows the M5 Competition to go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, while the M5 takes 3.2 seconds.

Suspension and Handling

The suspension and handling of the BMW M5 and M5 Competition are also quite different. The M5 has a standard suspension system that provides a comfortable ride, even at high speeds. However, the M5 Competition has a more aggressive suspension system that is designed to provide better handling and stability. This includes stiffer springs and dampers, larger anti-roll bars, and a lower ride height. The result is a car that feels more planted and stable, even when pushing it to its limits.

Brakes

Another significant difference between the BMW M5 and the M5 Competition is the brakes. The M5 has a standard set of brakes that are more than capable of stopping the car, even at high speeds. However, the M5 Competition comes with a set of high-performance brakes that are designed to provide better stopping power and fade resistance. The M5 Competition's brakes are larger, with six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, and they are designed to handle the increased power and performance of the car.

Exhaust System

Finally, the exhaust systems of the BMW M5 and the M5 Competition are also quite different. The M5 has a standard exhaust system that provides a great sound, but it is relatively quiet, especially when compared to other high-performance cars. However, the M5 Competition has a sport exhaust system that is designed to provide a much more aggressive exhaust note. This exhaust system is louder and more visceral, and it gives the driver a much more immersive driving experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the BMW M5 and the BMW M5 Competition are two incredible high-performance sedans that offer a unique driving experience. While the two cars may look similar on the outside, they are quite different under the hood. The M5 Competition is designed to provide better performance and handling, with a more aggressive suspension system, high-performance brakes, and a sport exhaust system. However, the M5 is still an incredibly capable car that offers a more comfortable and refined driving experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and driving style.