The E39 M5 is the epitome of a proper sporting saloon. It ticks all the right boxes: lusty V8, a proper gearbox, timeless looks, and enough luxury to fool everyone into thinking it isn't a hairy-chested hooligan right up until you feel so inclined. Other cars were certainly faster, more expensive or luxurious, or…

@MushyHeirloom: As a male driver, I have to agree wholeheartedly. My experience is obviously subjective and completely un-scientific, but I see women commit more comparatively minor goofs on the road than men.

Dammit, image post fail.

How, how, how has no-one posted the risque BMW certified pre-owned ad from a few years back? It's awesome, even if it was never officially released. (At least I think that was the case, i.e. not photoshopped.)

@tonyola: Likewise, you also make some good points.

@Joe Stoner: I disagree Joe.

It's definitely NP.

@tonyola: As the owner of a triple-black E39 M5, I agree that this one isn't really all that menacing in appearance. It's almost dainty, with the skinny pillars and airy greenhouse.

I can understand Porsche's annoyance, but they hardly need to defend themselves from Nissan of all people. Nissans aren't Porsches, no matter how fast the appliance known as the GT-R is.

I like the concept and I like the looks, but the price is just too dear...

@dallasmay: I work for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics as a safety dweeb, and you're wrong about the toxicity of the JSF's paint.

@funzette: Good God, could you sound any more like an armchair psychologist with the way you're trying to analyze this guy?

@Clown Shoe Pilot: Well said, sir. Like you I appreciate kramocramed's "left lane for passing only" sentiment, but it's not too helpful if he's pulling in front of someone else going 10-15 MPH faster in the process.

Awesome, I love the looks of this thing. I currently run a 2001 Focus S2 (which has the European suspension settings) and it's always been a hoot to drive. Slow, but well balanced, benign, and eager to play.

I went nice price... Practical, attractive, and nigh-indestructible. It's admittedly on the high side when it comes to price, but for the condition it's in and the expected life still in the thing, why not take a flier on it?