Overview
The E60 M5 is the saloon built from 2005 to 2010 around BMW’s naturally aspirated S85 V10. Its unusual engine, high rev limit and rear-wheel-drive executive-car format are the reasons enthusiasts seek it out. In Europe, the defining transmission is the seven-speed SMG automated manual; a conventional manual was supplied to North America, so a European manual advertisement needs careful identity checks. The related E61 Touring is a distinct estate body style rather than an E60 saloon. Ownership depends heavily on specialist records for the engine and gearbox. BMW M model history · MCarMarket buying guide
Versions and engines
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- E60 saloon: 5.0-litre S85 V10, 507 PS, paired in European specification with seven-speed SMG Drivelogic. BMW also fitted electronically controlled dampers and selectable engine programmes. BMW M model history
- North American manual: A six-speed manual was offered in that market. Confirm the car’s original market and identity if a seller claims factory manual specification. MCarMarket buying guide
- E61 Touring: The related estate arrived in 2007. It shares the V10 character but should be assessed and priced as its own body style. BMW M model history
- Later cars: Cabin and iDrive updates occurred during production; they do not remove the need to inspect the S85 and SMG. MCarMarket buying guide
What drives the price
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The main value factor is a credible account of engine and transmission work. Request invoices for rod bearings, throttle actuators, VANOS-related repairs and SMG hydraulic or clutch work. A car advertised with “all the big jobs done” needs itemised evidence showing which parts were changed and when. A current diagnostic scan adds evidence, but it cannot replace a service file. MCarMarket buying guide
A factory North American manual and an E61 Touring occupy different niches from the ordinary European E60 SMG saloon. Within the saloon market, condition, original specification and a well-maintained interior matter. A very low odometer reading can still accompany aged seals, tyres and fluids. Judge the asking price against the work still required, particularly if the seller cannot document the engine and gearbox. BMW M model history · MCarMarket buying guide
Common problems and what to inspect
Read this section: Common problems and what to inspect
- Rod bearings: S85 bearing wear is a significant ownership concern. Ask when the bearings were replaced and by whom; an undocumented engine warrants a specialist assessment before purchase. MCarMarket buying guide
- Throttle actuators: Faults can bring warning lights or reduced-power running. Check the diagnostic history and invoices for work on both banks rather than accepting a cleared warning lamp. MCarMarket buying guide
- SMG hydraulics and clutch: Repeatedly select drive and reverse, then assess changes when cold and warm. Delayed engagement, warnings or abrupt behaviour need diagnosis of the hydraulic system and clutch condition. MCarMarket buying guide
- VANOS system: Ask about solenoids and high-pressure lines; investigate rough running, unusual noises and relevant fault codes. “No warning light today” is weaker evidence than a repair invoice. MCarMarket buying guide
- Dampers and electronics: Test the selectable damper settings and every cabin function. A fault in an electronically controlled system should be priced as a repair until diagnosed. BMW M model history
Running costs
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The S85 and SMG call for a larger maintenance allowance than ordinary saloon running costs. Oil-service records, bearing invoices and actuator history should be reviewed together. Allow for clutch wear, SMG hydraulic repairs, tyres, brakes and electronically controlled dampers. There is no single invoice that makes the whole car “sorted”; date each repair and inspect the systems still untouched. Before buying, obtain a diagnostic scan and an inspection by a workshop familiar with the S85. Set future oil and inspection work against the service book and the car’s actual use. MCarMarket buying guide
FAQ
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Was the E60 M5 available with a manual gearbox? Yes, but the factory manual was a North American-market offering. European buyers should check the original specification of any manual advertised locally. MCarMarket buying guide
Is SMG the same as an automatic? It is a single-clutch automated manual with hydraulically operated changes. Its behaviour and repair needs differ from a conventional automatic, so a proper test drive matters. BMW M model history
What paperwork matters most? Start with rod-bearing, throttle-actuator and SMG invoices, then check oil and general service records. Match each claimed job to a dated, itemised bill. MCarMarket buying guide
Is the Touring simply an E60 with a larger boot? The estate carries the E61 code and is a separate body variant. Its rarity and estate-specific condition need separate consideration when comparing asking prices. BMW M model history
Sources:
- BMW M: E60 M5 history — checked 4 November 2026.
- MCarMarket: E60 M5 buying guide — checked 4 November 2026.