BMW (F10) 550i Steptronic

0 to 100 km/h: 4,60 sec est Top speed: 250 km/h Power: 330 kw Torque: 650 N.m CO : 199 g/km CAR fuel index: 12,50 L/100 km

SOMEWHAT more sophisticated than the 300C – reflected in the higher pricing – with the 5 Series you have a choice of sedan or Gran Turismo but we recommend the former. Used pricing is nevertheless keen for this well-built German car owing to the 550i not being the most popular model in the range on the second-hand market, that accolade going to the four-cylinder versions. However, aside from the M5, this V8-powered 5 Series is the most satisfying to drive.

The engine is a potent 4,4-litre employing dual Garrett turbochargers. The 550i has 300 kw as opposed to the M5’s 412 kw (which uses the same engine and is also worth a look). Later, the 550i’s outputs were increased to 330 kw and 650 N.m. The layout is unusual in that the exhausts and turbos sit inside the Vee, with the inlet manifolds on the outside.

Fuel consumption, as you’d expect from a modern, efficient BMW, is good for a V8 as long as you don’t overstrain your right foot. One thing to watch out for is high oil consumption (which is difficult to detect before ownership).

If you do decide to go down the M5 route, they command a price premium of R100 000 to R250 000 over the 550i. We’d stick with the latter, which offers enough performance at a substantial cost saving.