# BMW M5 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the BMW M5 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/bmw-m5

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: M5 Competition
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 3
- **Target price**: £52,000

## Why this model

The BMW M5 (F90 generation) is an absolute beast of a car, blending supercar performance with executive saloon practicality. It's a fantastic choice if you want blistering speed, luxurious comfort, and the ability to carry four adults and their luggage. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system means it's much more usable in all weather conditions than previous M5s, and the V8 engine is a masterpiece. Buying a used one from around 2019 means you've let someone else take the biggest hit on depreciation, making it a surprisingly good value for the performance on offer.

## What you should pay

Used M5s, especially the F90 generation, have taken a significant depreciation hit from new, making them much more accessible. Prices for a 2019 model have settled, offering a sweet spot where you get a relatively modern car with advanced tech and immense performance for a fraction of its original cost. While still a premium purchase, the value for money in terms of performance and luxury is outstanding compared to buying new.

## Which trim to buy

The M5 Competition is definitely the one to go for if your budget allows. For a relatively small premium on the used market, you get an extra 25 horsepower (625hp total), a sportier suspension setup, a more aggressive exhaust note, and subtle styling tweaks. These enhancements make an already incredible car even more engaging to drive, without sacrificing much in terms of daily usability. It holds its value slightly better than the standard M5 too, and buyers looking for an M5 often want the ultimate version, making it easier to sell down the line. It's the best blend of performance and value in the F90 range on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- Rapid tyre wear due to high power and weight
- Brake wear (especially on ceramic options, which are expensive to replace)
- Potential for minor electrical gremlins (infotainment, sensors)
- High running costs (fuel, insurance, servicing)
- Oil leaks can occur on older, higher mileage examples

## Running costs

Running an M5 is not for the faint of heart, budget-wise. Fuel costs will be high; expect around 20-25 mpg on a good run, meaning petrol could cost you 40-50p per mile. Road tax (VED) for cars that cost over £40,000 new is £520 per year for the first five years after the first registration, then it drops to £190 per year. Insurance will be very expensive, likely in the thousands per year, depending on your age, location, and driving history. Servicing and maintenance are also premium-priced, with specialist parts and labour. Tyres and brakes are performance-grade and wear quickly, costing a significant amount to replace.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 600-625 hp
- **Mpg**: 20-25 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: 7/10 (Above average for a high-performance car)
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (based on BMW 5 Series G30/F90)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| M5 | £90,000 | £47,000 | 600hp Twin-Turbo V8; M xDrive AWD system; M Sport differential |
| M5 Competition | £100,000 | £53,000 | 625hp Twin-Turbo V8; Stiffer engine mounts; Lowered suspension (7mm) |
| M5 Competition (with key options) | £110,000 | £58,000 | 625hp Twin-Turbo V8; M xDrive AWD system; M Sport differential |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £53,000 | 53% |
| 2027 | £45,000 | 45% |
| 2028 | £39,000 | 39% |
| 2029 | £34,000 | 34% |
| 2030 | £30,000 | 30% |

The M5, like most high-performance luxury cars, suffers significant depreciation in its first few years. Buying a 2019 model in 2026 means the initial, steepest drop in value has already occurred. While it will continue to depreciate, the rate slows down considerably, offering a much better value proposition for the buyer. You get a relatively modern car with most of its tech and performance intact, having avoided the largest financial hit.

Total value lost since new: 47%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Mercedes-AMG E63 S
- Audi RS6 Avant
- Porsche Panamera Turbo

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.