For the uninitiated, there’s not a lot to distinguish the 2006 BMW M5 from the regular 5 Series sedan. Subtle as the differences may be, BMW cognoscenti know the M5 when they see it. Each time we took the car for a ride someone would pull alongside, stare at the signature M “gills” just aft of the front wheels, nod, and then grin like an idiot. Some would give the thumbs up with maniacal enthusiasm. At night we were flashed with high beams at close range by drivers wanting to see if the M5 badge was attached to the decklid. (No, Dunlop, they were just peeved that you cut them off in your fancy German hot-rod. – Ed.) We know it wasn’t because we were moving too slow in the passing lane.

Other distinguishing features include 19-inch M alloys, a special front spoiler/intake, aerodynamic side mirrors, a small rear spoiler and four stainless steel exhaust tips – all most people see are those little beauties.

Inside, the M5 is dressed in signature M Series logos and tri-color stitching on the seat backs and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The new M5’s interior also gets special brushed aluminum trim, but you can choose from two different wood tones if you want a warmer cabin atmosphere. Adding to the effect are the M5’s special white-on-black gauges with red pointers. Taking into account the nearly 50-some buttons around the driver and the cutting-edge engineering packed into the car, this is exactly the way the interior should look: modern and high-tech.