BMW M5 (1991)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 46 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
91%
Total Tests (2024)
46
Avg Mileage
110,152 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 1991 BMW M5 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 9 points above the national average of 82%.
At 33 years old, 91% of BMW M5s from 1991 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 46 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 110,152 miles.
How does the 1991 BMW M5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1991 BMW M5 has 110,152 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 244,200 miles for a 33-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a BMW M5?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 85%. The 1991 sits between the two at 91%.
How much does a 1991 BMW M5 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW M5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 100% | 43 | 45,385 mi |
| 2020 | 100% | 35 | 34,728 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 255 | 39,872 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 50 | 45,133 mi |
| 2017 | 100% | 39 | 58,281 mi |
| 2016 | 94% | 1,332 | 59,490 mi |
| 2015 | 94% | 1,111 | 60,765 mi |
| 2014 | 94% | 1,304 | 62,382 mi |
| 2013 | 91% | 1,310 | 66,323 mi |
| 2012 | 95% | 815 | 76,211 mi |
| 2011 | 95% | 219 | 76,893 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 35 | 77,493 mi |
| 2009 | 97% | 30 | 74,096 mi |
| 2008 | 95% | 229 | 81,787 mi |
| 2007 | 95% | 467 | 83,923 mi |
| 2006 | 89% | 466 | 84,560 mi |
| 2005 | 91% | 597 | 92,623 mi |
| 2003 | 94% | 62 | 121,472 mi |
| 2002 | 90% | 272 | 119,488 mi |
| 2001 | 90% | 435 | 117,951 mi |
| 2000 | 85% | 359 | 125,310 mi |
| 1999 | 89% | 229 | 124,156 mi |
| 1995 | 100% | 44 | 125,572 mi |
| 1994 | 90% | 50 | 115,651 mi |
| 1993 | 90% | 62 | 127,582 mi |
| 1992 | 92% | 48 | 150,004 mi |
| 1991 | 91% | 46 | 110,152 mi |
Checking a specific BMW M5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1991 BMW M5
The 1991 BMW M5 is a premium performance with a 3430cc petrol engine. 46 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 16% of all 1991 cars for reliability.
With an average of 110,152 miles at 33 years old, BMW M5 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1991 BMW M5 Fuel Costs
The 3430cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1991 BMW M5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 91% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW M5 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW M5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1991 BMW M5
At 33 years old, the BMW M5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 95%. Note: with only 46 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1991 BMW M5
The BMW M5 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- PORSCHE 911 (1990) 91% pass rate (same) from 1,888 tests
- MERCEDES 300 (1992) 83% pass rate (-8%) from 1,096 tests
- PORSCHE 944 (1990) 85% pass rate (-6%) from 914 tests
- PORSCHE 968 (1993) 85% pass rate (-6%) from 489 tests