BMW M5 Competition

Editorial

The BMW M5 Competition of the F90 generation is the last purely gasoline-powered M5 generation before the arrival of the hybrid era: a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 without a single gram of electrification, the very recipe on which the M5 built its super-sedan reputation over two decades. Within the M5 lineup, the F90 holds the position of the classic, "analog" version — the driver gets all of the engine's power directly, without the hybrid layer and electric mode that define the look of its successor, the G90.

The F90 Competition's M xDrive all-wheel drive is tuned with a pronounced rear bias: the system lets you play with power on corner exit while still keeping the safety net of the all-wheel-drive system in difficult conditions — a combination for which the F90 generation is still valued by enthusiasts as one of the most driver-focused M5s in the model's history. The engine here has no hybrid overlay whatsoever, so throttle response is direct and predictable, without the electronic modulation characteristic of newer powertrains.

In the VertexRent fleet, this M5 is a way to experience the classic gasoline super-sedan before hybrid technology became the norm for flagship models in the segment.

In Detail

The unit in the VertexRent fleet is a 2023 model year, M xDrive all-wheel drive. The powertrain is a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8; according to factory data for the F90 Competition generation, output is 625 hp — the specific figure for this unit is not separately confirmed by the registration certificate. Top speed: the factory electronic limiter is 250 km/h, and the M Driver's Package option raises it to 305 km/h; confirm whether the package is present on this unit when booking.

In practical terms, this means the M5 Competition F90 is equally well suited for a test before buying a classic gasoline M5 on the secondary market and for comparing it directly with its hybrid successor from the same fleet. Current rental rates, deposit amount, and mileage limit are listed in the "Sazby" block and in the facts card on this same page.

Equipment includes a modern infotainment system with smartphone support, comfortable sport seats, and a full suite of driver assistance and parking systems. Exact specification depends on the specific unit's configuration — confirm details when booking.

BMW M5 Competition (F90) vs BMW M5 M Hybrid (G90) — gasoline without additives against the hybrid era

A rare chance to compare two philosophically different M5s in one fleet. The F90 Competition is a classic: a pure gasoline V8 with no hybrid overlay, direct throttle response, all-wheel drive with a pronounced rear bias. The M5 M Hybrid (G90) is a new era: a hybrid powertrain rated at 727 hp, an electric mode for the city, and five seats of elevated comfort, with a higher deposit than the F90. For anyone considering buying an M5 and weighing whether the premium for hybrid technology is worth it, comparing both units back to back is a rare chance to judge the generational difference firsthand.

Comparison from the other side: BMW M5 Competition Manhart (F90)

What to check behind the wheel if you're considering buying an M5

A day of rental settles questions that a dealer test drive usually doesn't reach. Start with the directness of response: without a hybrid layer, the F90 responds to the throttle differently than newer powertrains — it's worth figuring out which response character suits you personally. Test the all-wheel drive with its rear bias on an empty, safe road: the balance between xDrive's confidence and the feel of rear-wheel drive is exactly what this generation is valued for. Assess the dimensions when parking in Prague's historic center — the M5 is a large sedan. And finally, the sound: a gasoline V8 without hybrid filters sounds different from its successor's hybrid powertrain — it's worth figuring out in advance which acoustics you prefer.

Suggested Route

The M5 Competition F90 really comes into its own heading south, toward Tábor — a historic Hussite town with a well-preserved medieval center, about an hour and a half from Prague on a fast highway with smooth countryside curves on the approach. Along the way is the fish-farming region of Třeboňsko with its famous ponds. The base daily mileage limit should be budgeted for the compact part of the route with room to spare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I drive this BMW M5 from Prague?

The southern direction works well — historic Tábor with its Hussite heritage, about an hour and a half from Prague, with the fish-farming region of Třeboňsko along the way.

What is the top speed of this BMW M5?

250 km/h — the standard factory electronic limiter for the F90 Competition generation. The M Driver's Package option raises the limit to 305 km/h; whether the package is present on this specific unit is not documented — confirm when booking.

How does this BMW M5 differ from the BMW M5 M Hybrid in the same fleet?

These are two different M5 generations: this unit (F90) is a purely gasoline super-sedan with no hybrid technology, cheaper to rent. The M5 M Hybrid (G90) is the new hybrid generation with 727 hp and an electric mode for the city, more expensive to rent and with a higher deposit.

How much luggage fits in the M5 Competition?

This is a full-fledged sedan, not a sports coupe with a cramped trunk: trunk volume is comparable to an ordinary business sedan in the same class, and the rear seats fold down for longer items. For a weekend trip for four with suitcases, the format won't be a limitation, unlike the fleet's two-seat supercars.

Can this car be driven outside the Czech Republic?

Yes, subject to approval from the manager — this rule applies to the entire VertexRent fleet without exceptions by model. For a cross-border trip, the deposit doubles from the standard amount (the current figure is in the facts block on this same page). On unrestricted stretches of the German autobahn, the classic gasoline V8 unfolds exactly as its engineers intended — but the specific upper speed limit for this unit is not documented (see the question above), so calibrate your expectations about the figures in advance.