I can't give a one to one comparison... I heard so many negative stories about SMG that I never actively pursued any of them. The 6 speed is for me. I'm sure I don't shift as fast as the SMG, but to me it's not about milliseconds, I'm into the whole driving experience. And, I can make that v10 any tone I wish just like bending a string up on my stratocaster, it's sweet sweet music.

 

V10, 4 doors, 509hp, manual gearbox...just get a complete exhaust system you wont be disappointed.

 

mmmm... agreed. The stock system reduces volume so much that it can sound a bit anemic, and certainly nothing like a 500HP V10 should sound. There are some great options for the M5.

I still like the sound of a V10 over any other engine combo.

 

Congrats on the beast. With a manual tranny, your main worries are out of the way! You got piece of mind! Enjoy the car, and enjoy modding it cause its so much fun!

 

It's been about a month with the car now so here's a few thoughts to share with you. I use it everyday and it still gives me a big grin when I open the door to the garage. It's just a really comfortable daily driver too, aside from me being really anal about where I park it. I've put about 700 miles on it already. The cons list is virtually non-existent. It's a pretty thirsty car, but I knew that ahead of time, 14mpg is what I get driving around town, it's a little better on the highway but 18 is the best I've done. Highway driving is where she really shines. The acceleration from 60-100mph is just phenomenal! I won't say how far into triple digits I've explored. The only other pain in the ass is trying to keep those wheels clean. It's nearly impossible.

There's a couple of things about the car that I really love that I didn't really consider before buying it. The headlights - best I've ever seen! Also, the sound system is superb. There was a bit of a learning curve on the iDrive system but now it seems pretty natural to navigate. I thought I had it all figured out but every now and then I discover something new on it.

Overall, I couldn't be happier. I can't wait to take it on a long road trip.

 

Man that is awesome! Congrats! Enjoy that bad girl in good health!

 

Good to hear your thoughts on that amazing car, I keep forgetting the E60 could be had with a manual. Congrats again!

 

did you sell it locally and was it black? my buddy just bought a black 06 in austin