BMW’s famed “M” subsidiary was created for the purpose of taking already amazing cars and kicking things up a notch. Cars with the “M” badge signify modified engines, suspensions, transmissions, aerodynamics, and design touches. With the M5, however, these modifications were being made to a car that already boasted impressive performance numbers. Once the M team got through enhancing the vehicle, it went from jet to rocket. But it wasn’t enough to be a rocket. BMW decided to go for warp speed. And here we are with the M5 “C,” which stands for competition.

In typical BMW fashion, the car’s design is understated and discreet. If not for the M badging and sporty touches, it would be easy to underestimate the car’s capabilities. That would be a mistake. The M5 grabs corners as if the road were made of Velcro, then blasts down the straightaways like it’s preparing for takeoff. If you’re wondering about performance numbers, you can hit the accelerator from a stand-still and start singing Yankee Doodle. You’ll break 70 mph before you get to the word “pony.” You’ll hit 100 mph before you say “macaroni.” This blindingly fast machine delivers a throaty roar from its M Sport exhaust system.

Switch the engine to Comfort Mode and it reminds you this is a luxury car. Smooth as silk with a cabin that’s quiet as a library. Luxe standard equipment includes ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power-adjustable steering column. The M5’s interior controls are a combination of touch screen and physical knobs, allowing you to make adjustments with minimal distraction. The leather seats are sleek, supportive, and designed to keep you securely in place through every hairpin turn.

A daily driver with the strength of a lion. A powerful beast tamed for civilization. The M5 is loyal to its driver through every gear, every mile. When it comes to the driving experience, it’s as pure as it gets.