This paper presents a modeling and performance evaluation of a five-phase PMBLDC motor with different controllers to analyze its transients and dynamic response with time domain specifications. Four different types of speed controllers, namely an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), an Adaptive Hybrid fuzzy-PI, a Proportional Integral (PI) control and a Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC), were considered and compared for this purpose. The mathematical model of the five-phase Permanent Magnet Brushless Direct Current (PMBLDC) motor was developed and simulated using MATLAB/Simulink to analyze its performance. The simulation results for all controllers with step and linear load fluctuations were evaluated. It was evident that the ANFIS controller provided a better dynamic time domain response than the other controllers. It gave eight times the peak torque at starting, and settled at 92.6% of the rated speed, with negligible overshoot, a very low rise time and a quick settling time compared to other controllers, which are ideally suited for an electric vehicle (EV). A real-time experimental setup was also developed, and experiments were carried out to validate the simulation results.