[Ads4]

Despite it's size the M5 really is a fantastic handling car. I was lucky enough to drive one around the Ring and first time round managed a very respectable time, it felt so balanced.

[JustChris]

Bit late now but should have had a poll?

[RobUK]

Originally Posted by ChesterX5

Bit late now but should have had a poll?

Lots of variables...

Model: 2 vs. 3 vs. 4 vs. M5 - don't think the standard 5 Series comes into it?
Saloon vs. Coupe - Are 2-door coupe variants marginally stiffer so better handling than saloons?
Engines: Petrol (for weight & top end) vs. Diesel (for torque). Lighter engines (20i, 28i) better? 50/50 wieght distribution.
Suspension: Standard vs. Adaptive vs. MPS vs. MPS + Adaptive vs. Competition Pack
Steering: Standard vs. VSS
Drive: Does sDrive make for better handling (in most scenarios) than xDrive?
Could probably add that non-RFT's are better than RFT's too!

Probably need a 'scorecard' as to which of the above contributes the most towards the best handling package. E.g. Score each out of 10 for contribution towards best handling.

Overall Size/Weight
Small (1/2 Series)
Medium (3/4 Series)
Large (5 Series)
Engine
20i
28i
30i
35i
30d
35d
Body Style
Hatchback
Saloon
Coupe
Suspension
Standard
MPP
Competition Pack
Standard/MPP + adaptive
Steering
Standard
VSS

Watched an Autocar video of the M5 + Competition Pack vs. Vauxhal VXR8 - interesting that the reviewer had lots of praise for the competition Pack on the M5, whereas I recall Jeremy Clarkson being less than complimentary about BMW's optional tweaks on the outgoing M3.

For me it's about what is the sweetest handling BMW you'll be able to buy new, rather than the fastest in a straight line.