Did our video series on the BMW M5 versusthe Mercedes-AMG E63 S (and our review of the former) whet your appetite for more super saloon thrills? If so, the BMW M5 Competition will arrivein South Africa in September 2018!

First of all, there's the beefed-up powerplant. The standard BMW M5's4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 (mated with an 8-speed M Steptronic unit with Drivelogic) produces peak outputs of 441 kW and 750 Nm. The M5 Competition, however, offers maximum power of 460 kW and, although thetorque remains the same,it's available in a wider band:1 800 to5 800 rpm, making the all-wheel-drive super saloon quicker from 0 to 100 kph (3.3 sec, BMW claims, and 0-200 kph in 10.8 seconds!). With the M Drivers Package fitted, the Bimmer will go on to a heady 305-kph top speed.

Many fans are grateful that the current M5 produces a better soundtrack than its predecessor, but the M5 Competition goes beyond that– it comes equipped withasports exhaust with a black chrome finish, which further loudens the engine note. Other accoutrements include a stiffer suspension lowered by 7 mm, new 20-inch alloy wheels, a carbon fibre engine cover and trim upgrades like black badges, grilles and rearbumper accents.

Watch a drag race between the standard M5 and the Merc-AMG E63 S:

Also see:Will It Drift? BMW M5 vs Mercedes-AMG E63 S

BMW claims that increased camber at the front axle (with a with a newly designed mounting for the anti-roll bar) hasenhanced the car’s ability to absorb lateral forces through high-speed corners and the rear anti-roll bar also has a firmer spring rate. By stiffening the M5 Competition's springs by 10% (compared withthe standard version), BMW has endowed its super saloon with a firmer ride, which improves its steering response.

Inside the car, BMW M stripe design colours are emblazoned on the seatbelts, plus floor mats with special piping and the “M5” logo. A further identifying feature is the “MCompetition” graphic that appears in the instrument cluster to greet the driver when the super saloonstartsup.

The BMW M5 Competition retails for R2 062 306.50, which includes a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

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Further Reading

BMW M5 (2018) Review

5 Supercars a BMW M5 Can Beat

Highlights: SA's first BMW M Festival [with Videos]

Audi RS5 vs BMW M4 Competition Pack vs Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe [w/Video]

BMW M8 Gran Coupe Concept Shown in Geneva [w/Video]