You can say it’s a safe bet to stick with the standard model when it comes to buying a performance car. It’s the version that has been tested the most thoroughly and the one that has been taken into consideration from square one of the development phase.
In the case of the BMW M5, it would be hard to find a driver who considers the standard edition underpowered or not quick enough in corners. True, it’s a heavy car, but the 552 hp more than make up for its curb weight of 1,945 kg (4,288 lbs).
However, BMW also offers a slightly more powerful M5 (567hp) with the Competition Package, which also brings a re-tuned chassis with new coil springs and damper calibrations, stiffened anti-sway bars, lowered suspension (10mm/0.4 in), different bushings for the front axle, plus a unique tune for the standard Active M Differential and rack-and-pinion steering.
How do these upgrades translate into driving? MotorTrend tested the M5 Competition Package and shared their conclusions in the video that you can watch after the break.
By Dan Mihalascu
VIDEO