BMW M5 E60

First introduced in 2005, the BMW M5 E60 the fourth generation of the series and is currently the most powerful BMW road car ever built.

Hitting the Tarmac:

Translating BMW's Formula 1 experience directly into a road car, the new BMW M5 is powered by a normally aspirated 5-liter V10 engine - a first for BMW - with the two five-cylinder banks arranged at a 90-degree angle. Redlined at 8,250rpm, the 500 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque propels the car from 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds and to 124 mph in 15 seconds before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. Without the limiter, the new M5 would be capable of an awe-inspiring 205 mph. These levels of performance, when combined with the lightweight aluminum chassis and body panels from the 5 Series, ensure the new M5 can lap the infamous 'Nordschleife' at the Nürburgring in approximately eight minutes - a time rarely achieved even by high performance sports cars.

While the chassis, suspension and steering of the M5 are based on the design of the 5-Series, almost all components are new. The BME M5 E60 also features a variable M differential lock that offers a high level of driving stability and traction, especially when accelerating out of high-speed corners. Stopping power in the M5 is also enhanced courtesy of a high performance braking system with cross-drilled ventilated discs and twin-piston calipers.

Mechanics:

The BMW M5, along with the new M6, were designed to use the new SMG III electrohydraulic manual transmission. The transmission, while responsive at the track, has been criticized for its general lack of smoothness in everyday driving. In October 2006 BMW announced that a 6-speed manual transmission would be available in North America based on suggestions from the motoring press. Unfortunately, this gearbox reduces acceleration performance slightly. The 6-speed manual M5 was marginally slower, since the stability control cannot be disengaged as per the SMG version. The SMG III includes the "Launch Control" feature, which allows maximum performance standing starts automatically. However, the US spec vehicles have a reduced rpm to prevent vehicle damage and abuse.

The BMW M5 E60 also features several F1-inspired engine and transmission controls, including launch control, dynamic stability control, and the option of changing to either automated or manual as well as the speed at which shifts are completed (there are 11 shift programs in total forming what BMW calls Drivelogic).

Styling:

Visually, the new M5 takes the distinctive looks of the 5-Series to whole other level, with modified front and rear bumpers and side sills. For the first time on an M5, the front wings now incorporate an air duct, which helps keep the engine bay cool during operation, and a new door mirror design. Wider wheel arches house the exclusive 19-inch M5 wheel design, while BMW M's signature four tailpipes alert drivers behind to the potential of the car in front.