Minolta's XD-5 — aperture- and shutter-priority auto, electronic shutter, MD mount, 1979.
The Minolta XD-5 was introduced in 1979 as the lower-specified model in the XD line, sitting below the XD-7/XD-11. The XD series was the first 35mm SLR to offer both aperture-priority and shutter-priority automatic exposure in one body, and it worked best with the MD lenses that convey aperture information.
It is an electronically controlled 35mm SLR on the Minolta SR/MC/MD bayonet, here labelled Minolta MD. It uses an electronic vertical metal focal-plane shutter and offers aperture-priority auto, shutter-priority auto and manual exposure. Metering is through-the-lens and centre-weighted, and in shutter-priority mode the camera could adjust the setting to protect exposure. Because the shutter is electronically timed it needs a working battery to fire, with only a limited mechanical speed for emergencies.
The XD-5 suits users who want both automatic modes in a compact electronic body for general, travel and portrait work. It handles smoothly and offers more automation than the XE and SRT bodies, though it depends on healthy electronics and pairs best with MD-series lenses for full functionality.
On the used market, test the metal shutter across its range and confirm both auto modes respond to changing light. Foam light seals and mirror-damper foam commonly perish and usually need renewal. As an electronic body it relies on its circuitry, so check the meter and auto systems, be aware ageing capacitors and electronics can fail, and clean the battery contacts. Inspect the prism for haze, feel the advance and rewind, and note the body will not fire normally with a dead battery.