Audi
RS6
BMW
M5
Audi RS6 vs BMW M5: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the BMW M5 comes out ahead of the Audi RS6 on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
RS6
Overall
Sentiment is deeply polarized, split between immense emotional appeal and significant reliability concerns. The vehicle is universally celebrated for its iconic status as a high-performance wagon, described as a "white whale" that garners enthusiastic public attention. Owners praise its beautiful design, particularly in special colors like Tango Red or Goodwood Green, its "on rails" handling with dynamic sport suspension, and the intoxicating combination of a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 with all-wheel drive practicality.
Best version to buy
For the current generation (C8), the RS6 Performance trim is mentioned, but no single trim emerges as a definitive "best" based on owner feedback. Strong opinions exist on options: Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCBs) are highly recommended by those who have them, described as a "night and day" improvement over steel brakes, despite the astronomical replacement cost.
Known issues
- ⚠Electrical system failures: causing repeated breakdowns and flatbed tows on new vehicles. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Water pump failures: multiple replacements reported on the same vehicle. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Oil and coolant leaks: specifically from the water pump, oil filter housing, and rear differential pressure limiting valves, noted as a known issue on 2021 models. Frequency: recurrent.
M5
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily influenced by ownership costs. The E60 generation (V10 S85 engine) is universally described as an unreliable "money pit" and "heap of junk" with catastrophic engine failure risks, particularly concerning rod bearings, leading to extremely high maintenance costs. The F90 generation (V8 S63 engine) receives a more positive reception for its brutal performance, all-wheel drive capability, and modern luxury, but is still acknowledged as a very expensive vehicle to maintain properly.
Best version to buy
F90 Competition (pre-hybrid V8): This generation is frequently cited as the "last good M5," praised for its reliability relative to the V10, monstrous performance from its twin-turbo V8, and attractive design. It is seen as a peak of the traditional M5 formula before the added weight and complexity of the hybrid G90.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic engine failure (E60 V10 S85): Rod bearing failures leading to seized engines; described as one of the least reliable BMW engines ever made. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Extremely high maintenance/repair costs: Described as an "absolute fortune" to maintain, with reports of $20,000+ spent over 10 years for low-mileage cars; major service bills anticipated as mileage approaches 100,000 km.
- ⚠Hybrid system and weight drawbacks (G90): Numb brake feel due to regen, excessive mass, and electromechanical systems that detract from driver engagement; noted quality control issues like missing door assemblies and non-functional heaters…
The verdict
The BMW M5 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Audi RS6, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Audi RS6 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi RS6 or the BMW M5?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi RS6 and the BMW M5. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi RS6 or the BMW M5?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi RS6 or the BMW M5?
The BMW M5 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 2.0 L/100km combined versus 12.2-12.7 L/100km for the Audi RS6, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi RS6 or the BMW M5?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi RS6 than the BMW M5. See the known issues comparison above.