You understand how each automobile fanatic has that one automobile they remorse not shopping for? For me, that automobile would possibly simply be the six-speed guide F10 BMW M5. I had an opportunity to drive on the enduring Laguna Seca in 2012 and that reminiscence remains to be imprinted in my thoughts. Now should you’ve by no means appeared into this F10 M5, you is likely to be lacking out on considered one of BMW M’s best-kept secrets and techniques.
Let me clarify.
This automobile got here at an odd time in BMW M historical past. It adopted the high-revving, F1-sounding E60 M5 with its screaming V10 and single-clutch SMG. That automobile was wild—but additionally temperamental and form of a ache to stay with. Then got here the F10: larger, quieter, turbocharged. On the floor, it appeared like BMW had gone smooth. A turbo engine?! Blasphemy, the group shouted.
Six-Velocity Handbook, 560 HP
However then, should you had been one of many fortunate few within the U.S., you can spec it with a guide gearbox. And never simply any guide. A correct six-speed, mated to a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 throwing down 560 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque—all to the rear wheels. No xDrive, no traction security web. Simply you, the highway, and a drivetrain that’ll fortunately chew via tires should you’re not paying consideration.
It was the final M5 with a guide. Ever. And BMW solely offered 577 of them in North America. That’s not simply uncommon—that’s unicorn territory.
A Distinctive Driving Expertise
Driving one is… an expertise. It’s not good. The gear ratios are lengthy, and it’s not as sharp as a smaller M automobile. However rattling, does it really feel alive. You’re continually working—shifting, managing increase, holding it pointed straight—and that’s what makes it enjoyable. It’s the form of automobile that punishes lazy inputs and rewards precision. No filters, no pretense. Simply uncooked muscle in a gentleman’s swimsuit.
I’ll be trustworthy, vehicles like this don’t get made anymore. The whole lot’s all-wheel drive, automated, hybridized, or on the way in which to full EV. And yeah, the brand new M5 is technically higher in virtually each measurable manner. But it surely’s no more enjoyable essentially—not in the identical manner. The F10 M5 guide is the final stand. It’s imperfect, just a little harmful, and all of the extra lovable for it.
When you’ve ever dreamed of proudly owning a correct, analog M automobile with massive energy and even larger character, that is the one. Simply don’t wait too lengthy. As a result of as soon as individuals catch on, the key’s out—and these received’t keep inexpensive endlessly.
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