BMW M5
BMW M5
BMW M5
BMW 5 Series
Related
BMW M6
The BMW M5 is a high performance variant of the BMW 5 Series marketed under the BMW
M sub-brand. It is considered an iconic vehicle in the sports sedan category.[1][2] The majority
of M5's have been produced in the sedan (saloon) body style, but in some countries the M5
was also available as a wagon (estate) from 1992–1995 and 2006–2010.[3][4]
The first M5 model was hand-built in 1985 on the E28 535i chassis with a modified engine
from the M1 that made it the fastest production sedan at the time.[5] M5 models have been
produced for every generation of the 5 Series since 1985.
Contents
1 E28 M5 (1984–1988)
2 E34 M5 (1988–1995)
o 2.1 Updates
o 2.2 M-System wheels
o 2.3 Special editions
o 2.4 Motorsport
3 E39 M5 (1998–2003)
o 3.1 Engine
o 3.2 Drivetrain
o 3.3 Chassis
4 E60/E61 M5 (2005–2010)
o 4.1 Engine
o 4.2 Transmission
5 F10 M5 (2011–2016)
o 5.1 Special editions
6 F90 M5 (2017–present)
o 6.1 Engine and transmission
o 6.2 Special editions
7 See also
8 References
E28 M5 (1984–1988)
BMW M5 (E28)
Overview
Production 1984–1988
Body and chassis
Body style 4-door sedan
Powertrain
3.5 L M88/3 I6
3.5 L S38 I6 (North America
Engine
only)
The official markets for the E28 M5 were Europe, Great Britain, the United States, Canada,
and South Africa. The European and South African cars utilised the M88/3 engine which has
a power output of 210 kW (286 PS; 282 hp).[9]
Cars sold in the United States and Canada used a detuned version of the M88/3 called the
S38B35, which was equipped with a catalytic converter and has a power output of 191 kW
(256 hp).[10] Due to an extended production run that exceeded BMW's original forecast of
production volumes, a class action lawsuit was launched by owners in the United States. The
results of this class action was that owners were given a voucher for US$4,000 in 1993.[11]
Production of North American specification M5 commenced in November 1986 and ended in
November 1987.[12]
Aside from 96 cars which were assembled in kit form at BMW's Plant in Rosslyn, South
Africa, all cars were assembled by hand in Germany.[13] Assembly took place at BMW
Motorsport's plant in Preussenstrasse in Munich prior to the 1986 factory summer vacation.
Thereafter, the M5 production was moved to Daimlerstrasse in Garching where the remainder
were built.[12] Production of the M5 continued until November 1988, almost a year after
BMW had ceased production of regular E28 models.[14] With a total production of 2,241
units,[7][12] the E28 M5 remains among the rarest regular production BMW Motorsport cars –
after the M1 (456 units), M5 (E34) Touring (891 units)[15] and the 850CSi (1,510 units).[16]
E34 M5 (1988–1995)
BMW M5 (E34)
Overview
Production 1988–1995
Body and chassis
4-door sedan
Body style 5-door wagon
Powertrain
Engine 3.5–3.8 L S38 I6
5-speed manual (1988–1994)
Transmission 6-speed manual (1994–1995)
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,761 mm (108.7 in)
Length 4,720 mm (185.8 in)
Width 1,750 mm (68.9 in)
Height 1,392 mm (54.8 in)
Curb weight 1,745 kg (3,847 lb)[17]
The E34 generation of the M5 was produced from September 1988 to August 1995. Powered
by the S38 straight-6 engine, an evolution of the previous generation's straight-6, it was
initially produced in a sedan body style, with a LHD Touring (wagon/estate) version
following in 1992.[18]
Production of M5 models began with the painted bodyshell of an E34 5 Series at the BMW
Dingolfing plant.[19] The shells were then transported to BMW M GmbH in Garching, where
the car was assembled by hand over a period of two weeks.[20][21] Only the South African M5
was entirely assembled at the Rosslyn, South Africa assembly plant from complete knock-
down kits supplied from Garching, Germany. The M5 Touring, which was BMW M
Division's first wagon as well as the last hand-built M car, saw 891 units produced. Total
production of the E34 M5 was 12,254 units.[19]
Cosmetic changes to the exterior from the standard E34 included unique front and rear
bumpers and side rocker panels, contributing to a drag coefficient of 0.32 (from 0.30),[22] and
interior updates included a unique gearshift surround and rear headrests.
The second-generation M5 was introduced with the S38B36 engine, which generated 232 kW
(315 PS; 311 hp) at 6,900 rpm and 360 N⋅m (266 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,750 rpm,[22] touting a
factory 0-97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration figure of 6.3 seconds.[22] Top speed was
electronically limited to 250 kilometres per hour (160 mph).[23]
Updates
In late 1991 (1992 model year), the engine was upgraded to the 3.8-litre S38B38,[24] with
exception to North America and South Africa, which continued with the 3.6-litre engine due
to emission laws. Power increased to 250 kW (340 PS; 335 hp),[25] leading to a factory 0-
97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time of 5.9 seconds, and the ignition changed to a distributor-
less system with each cylinder having an individual coil. BMW also used a dual-mass
flywheel in place of the single in the 3.6-litre version for a smoother idle and throttle input at
the expense of response. The standard self-leveling suspension (SLS) system, which
maintained a constant ride height in the rear, was replaced with Electronic Damper Control
(EDCIII+), an electronically controlled and hydraulically regulated system that can switch
between comfort "P" setting and a more track-oriented "S" setting.
A 6-speed Getrag 420G manual transmission was introduced in 1994, which added an
overdriven top gear.[26]
M-System wheels
The M5 came with an unusual wheel design. From 1988–1992 the M5 featured the three-
piece Style 20 "M-System" wheels, which consisted of directional bolted-on wheel covers and
a fin assembly in front of the black, 5-spoke forged aluminum wheel. The purpose of the M-
System cover was to divert heat from the brake assembly to increase cooling.
In 1992 BMW changed the design to the "M-System II" (nicknamed "throwing stars") which
improved brake cooling from the combination of the larger openings and fins placed in the
driving direction.[27]
In May 1994, the M5 switched to 18-inch Style 37 "M Parallel" wheels that did away with the
finned cover entirely.[19]
Special editions
There were four special editions of the E34 M5. The Cecotto, Winkelhock and 20 Jahre
editions which were offered as LHD Euro specification models while the RHD UK Limited
edition was only sold in the United Kingdom.[19]
In 1991, BMW asked two race drivers to design their "ideal" version of the E34 M5. The
Cecotto Edition M5, named after Johnny Cecotto, featured severy luxury items fitted,
including Nappa leather for the steering wheel and heated seats. A total of 22 Cecotto E34
M5s were produced with options of having either Lagoon Green metallic (code number 266)
and Mauritius Blue metallic paint (code number 287) and Light Parchment or Light
Silvergrey upholstery for the interior.[19]
The other M5 special edition dedicated to a race driver was the Winkelhock Edition, named
after touring car driver Joachim Winkelhock. The resulting car was a lightweight M5 stripped
of some amenities. The Winkelhock Edition features a smaller battery, the reduced US-spec
81-litre fuel tank, reduced sound deadening, and deletion of non-essential items such as rear
headrests, vanity mirrors, rear window switches and foglights. The Recaro front seat design,
suede-covered 385mm M-Technic II steering wheel, shift knob and parking brake handle, and
red seatbelts were similar to those on the BMW E30 M3 Sport Evolution. A total of 51
Winkelhock E34 M5s were produced with the options of having Jet Black (code number 668)
with contrasting lower body panels in Sterling Silver metallic paint (code number 244).[19]
The 20 Jahre Motorsport Edition was built to celebrate BMW Motorsport's 20th
anniversary in 1992. Twenty cars were produced, all Euro-spec 3.8-litre models. Offered only
in Mugello Red (code numher 274), the anniversary edition had a number of aesthetic trim
upgrades such as carbon fiber dash panels, red seat belts embroidered with "BMW
Motorsport," and M-Technic rear-view mirrors. Unique seat center & door trim fabric were
matched with Alcantara, which was also used on the steering wheel, shift lever & parking
brake lever.[28]
The UK Limited Edition was produced from March to June 1995, to commemorate the end
of right-hand drive E34 M5 production. Fifty cars were produced, in one of two color and
trim combinations: Rosso Red metallic (code number 369) with a Champagne extended
leather interior and natural poplar wood trim (15 built) or Orinoco metallic (code number 406)
with a Bicolour Petrol and Mint extended leather interior and graphite bird's-eye maple wood
trim (35 built). Each E34 M5 Limited Edition is equipped with the three-spoke sport steering
wheel, Shadowline trim, power sunroof, power front seats, headlight washers and manual air
conditioning. A numbered plaque appears on the center console.[19][29]
Additionally, 20 M5 Touring Elekta models were assembled for distribution in Italy in 1995.
These were finished in either Sterling Silver over Marine Blue leather, or British Racing
Green over Tobacco leather and featured extended leather interior as well as unique,
numbered shift knobs. It is debated as to whether or not these cars constitute a true special
edition as they were ordered directly by a group of Italian BMW dealers.[19]
BMW developed a prototype convertible model, which featured an electric folding cloth roof
and a steeper raked windshield than a standard M5.[30] Steel reinforcements were added under
both side valance panels to reduce body flex, and curb weight was approximately 100 kg
(220 lb) more than the sedan model. The prototype was never given the green light for
production due to financial considerations.[19]
Motorsport
BMW Australia entered an E34 M5 in the Australian 1992 Bathurst 12 Hour Production Car
endurance race, placing 2nd overall, and 1st in its class.[31][32] It was driven by former F1
champion Alan Jones, Neville Crichton, and BMW Touring car driver Tony Longhurst.[33][34]
E39 M5 (1998–2003)
BMW M5 (E39)
Overview
Production 1998–2003
Body and chassis
Body style 4-door sedan
Powertrain
Engine 4.9 L S62 V8
Transmission 6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,830 mm (111.4 in)
Length 4,783 mm (188.3 in)
Width 1,801 mm (70.9 in)
Height 1,412 mm (55.6 in)
Curb weight 1,795 kg (3,957 lb)[35]
Introduced in 1998 at the Geneva Motor Show, the E39 generation of the M5 was the first M5
to use a V8 engine, resulting in an increase in power output to 294 kW (400 PS).[36] It is also
the first M5 to use aluminium front suspension components and a multi-link rear suspension.
Production began in October 1998.
Production totalled to 20,482 cars from 1999 to 2003. Unlike its predecessors, the M5 was
produced on the same assembly line as the regular 5 Series models at the Dingolfing factory
in Germany.
The official performance figures are 0–97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time of 4.8 seconds and
an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).[37][38] In testing, an unrestricted
M5 reached a top speed in excess of 300 km/h (186 mph).[39] The E39 M5 recorded a
Nurburgring lap time of 8:20[37]
The M5 received the September 2000 facelift (for the 2001 model year) at the same time as
the standard E39 models.[40] Changes included halogen "corona rings" in headlights (often
called "Angel Eyes"), LED tail-lights and various interior upgrades. The mechanical
specification was unchanged. For the subsequent two model years, changes were limited to
the addition of new exterior colours (from September 2001) and the upgrade to a DVD-based
navigation system (from September 2002).[40]
Production of a "Touring" (wagon/estate) E39 M5 model was evaluated by BMW, and at least
one prototype was developed (in Titanium Silver with a Black Exclusive leather interior).
However the Touring did not reach production, due to financial considerations.[41]
Engine
The E39 M5 is powered by the BMW S62 V8 engine, which generates a power output of
294 kW (400 PS; 394 hp) at 6,600 rpm and 500 N⋅m (369 lb⋅ft) of torque at 3,800 rpm.[35][42]
The S62 engine has electronically actuated individual throttle bodies, an aluminium block and
heads, variable valve timing (double-VANOS), and a semi-dry sump oil system.
Drivetrain
The transmission is the Getrag 420G six-speed manual, as used in the E39 540i but with an
upgraded clutch due to the increased torque. The differential uses a shorter 3.15:1 ratio, and is
a limited slip differential with 25% maximum locking.
Chassis
The E39 M5 uses aluminium-intensive MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear
suspension, as per the other V8 models of the E39 5 Series range. However, several changes
were made by BMW M. Reduced spring height, 23 mm (0.9 in) lower. A specific shock
valving, thicker front and rear anti-roll bars, polyurethane auxiliary springs, and steel
balljoints.
Although the six-cylinder E39 models use rack-and-pinion steering, the M5 (and other V8
models) retains the recirculating ball steering system, as used by previous generations of the
M5. A quicker steering ratio of 14.7 was used, compared with 17.9 for other V8 models.[40] It
featured a Servotronic vehicle-speed-sensitive power assist which provides two levels of
resistance controlled via console mounted Sport button. The Sport button also adjusted the
electronic throttle butterflies for more sensitive response.[43]
Brake discs (rotors) are a "floating" two-piece design (except for U.S and Canada models), for
reduced risk of cone distortion. Their lower unsprung weight improves ride quality and
traction on bumpy surfaces as well. The front discs are 345 mm (13.58 in) in diameter and the
rear discs are 328 mm (12.91 in) in diameter.[35]
E60/E61 M5 (2005–2010)
BMW M5 (E60)
Overview
Production 2005–2010
Body and chassis
4-door sedan
Body style
5-door wagon
Powertrain
Engine 5.0 L S85 V10
Transmission 7-speed SMG III
6-speed manual (North
America only)
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,890 mm (113.8 in)
Length 4,855–4,864 mm (191.1–191.5 in)
Width 1,846 mm (72.7 in)
Sedan:
1,469 mm (57.8 in)
Height Wagon:
1,512 mm (59.5 in)
Sedan:
1,855 kg (4,090 lb)[44]
Curb weight Wagon:
1,955 kg (4,310 lb)[44]
The E60 M5 was introduced in 2005, with a V10 engine and 7-speed transmission linking the
car with the BMW Sauber Formula One program.[45][46] The E60 M5 was the world's first
production sedan to use a V10 petrol engine. This generation of the M5 was also built in the
E61 Touring (wagon) body style, which was only sold in Europe. The E63/E64 M6 coupé and
convertible are based on a shortened version of the M5 chassis and largely use the same
mechanical components.
The official 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration figure is 4.7 seconds for the sedan,[47]
however magazine tests have recorded figures down to 4.1 seconds.[48] The E60 M5 was the
fastest 4-door sedan available at the time of its introduction.[49] Top speed is electronically
restricted to 250 km/h (155 mph)[47] but could be raised to 305 km/h (190 mph) with the
optional M-driver's package.[50] The M5 has recorded a Nürburgring lap time of 8:13.[51][52]
Upgrades over regular 5 Series models include a wider track, unique body panels, a colourful
heads up display featuring navigation, control messages, speed, rpm and gear selection
information, automated seat side bolsters, heated/ventilated seats and power rear curtain. The
larger, flared front guards on either side also featured cooling vents, reminiscent of the 1970s
BMW CSL. The wheels were of a 19-inch diameter and the car has quad exhaust pipes at the
rear.
During its five-year production run, 20,589 units were built composing of 19,564 sedans and
1,025 wagons. The biggest market was the United States with 8,800 cars (all sedans),
followed by Great Britain and Ireland with 1,776 cars and Germany with 1,647 cars.[53]
The M5 model was designed by Karl John Elmitt[54] and produced at the BMW Plant
Dingolfing in Germany.
Engine
The BMW S85 is a 5.0 L (305 cu in) V10 engine which generates a power output of 373 kW
(507 PS; 500 hp) at 7,750 rpm and 520 N⋅m (384 lb⋅ft) of torque at 6,100 rpm.[47][55] The S85
was exclusively used in the E60 M5 (and related E63/E64 M6) and is not based on any other
engine.
There are three driver-selectable engine modes: P400, P500 and P500 S. P400, the default
start-up mode, limits the engine to 294 kW (400 PS; 394 hp). P500 increases power to the full
373 kW (507 PS; 500 hp). The P500 S mode keeps the engine at the same power output as the
P500 mode but adds a more sensitive throttle response.[56]
Transmission
The M5 uses the "SMG III" 7-speed single-clutch Electrohydraulic manual transmission, that
performs gear shift in 65-250 milliseconds.[57]
The SMG III includes launch control, a hill holder, shift-lock avoidance (by briefly
disengaging the clutch during downshifts) and an automatic shift mode.[58] However,
many reviews have observed the automatic mode of the transmission at low or
frequent stop start speeds as being less smooth than that of a conventional automatic
transmission.[59][60][61][62][63][64]
F10 M5 (2011–2016)
BMW M5 (F10)
Overview
Production 2011–2016
Body and chassis
Body style 4-door sedan
Powertrain
Engine 4.4 L S63 V8 turbo
7-speed dual clutch
6-speed manual (North
Transmission
America only)
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,964 mm (116.7 in)
Length 4,910 mm (193.3 in)
Width 1,891 mm (74.4 in)
Height 1,451 mm (57.1 in)
Curb weight 1,990 kg (4,387 lb)[71]
The F10 M5 was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and sales began in November
2011.[72] It is powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, making it the first turbocharged M5
model. The gearbox in most markets is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission marking the first
time an M5 has used a dual-clutch transmission. A traditional 6-speed manual transmission
was also available in the United States.[73]
The BMW S63B44TÜ engine is an upgraded version of the 4.4 L (269 cu in) twin-
turbocharged V8 first introduced in the 2010 E70 X5 M, generating a maximum power output
of 412 kW (560 PS; 553 hp) at 6,000–7,000 rpm and 680 N⋅m (502 lb⋅ft) at 1,500–5,750
rpm.[74] This results in an official 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 4.4 seconds and
top speed (with the optional M Driver's Package fitted) of 305 km/h (190 mph).[75] The F10
M5 has a reported Nürburgring lap time of 7:55.[76]
An Active M-Differential provides torque vectoring between the rear wheels, which are 19-
inches in standard trim. Optional 20-inch wheels are fitted with 265/35/20 front and
295/30/20 rear Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. Standard brakes are 6-piston front calipers[77]
with carbon ceramic brakes optional. The F10 M5 weighs 1,945 kg (4,288 lb), which is 90 kg
(198 lb) more than its predecessor.[citation needed] The F10 M5 was praised for its improved
gearbox and fuel economy; however, the engine sound, steering feel and increased weight
were criticised.[78][79]
The M5 was produced alongside regular 5 Series models at the BMW Dingolfing Plant in
Germany. Production ended in October 2016.[80]
From 2014, the BMW M5 Competition Package was introduced. The Competition Package
increases peak engine power to 423 kW (575 PS; 567 hp) and has a revised suspension setup
(bushings, springs, dampers, anti-roll bars) which lowers the car 10 mm (0.4 in).[81] In 2015,
the power output of the M5's Competition Package was raised to 441 kW (600 PS; 591 hp)
and 700 N⋅m (516 lb⋅ft)[82]
Special editions
To celebrate BMW M5 30th anniversary in 2015, BMW had built 300 special edition models,
named "30 Jahre BMW M5".[83] All 300 cars came in BMW special edition paint in the
Individual colour shade called the Frozen Dark Silver metallic. On the interior, “30 Jahre M5”
is embroidered on the front door sill finishers and the seat backrests, and plaque bearing “30
Jahre M5” and “1/300” inscriptions is placed on the dashboard.
F90 M5 (2017–present)
BMW M5 (F90)
Overview
Production 2017–present[84]
Assembly Germany: Dingolfing
Body and chassis
Body style 4-door sedan
Layout F4 layout
Powertrain
Engine 4.4 L S63 V8 turbo
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,982 mm (117.4 in)[85]
Length 4,965 mm (195.47 in)[85]
Width 1,903 mm (74.92 in)[85]
Height 1,473 mm (57.99 in)[85]
Curb weight 1,855 kg (4,090 lb)[86]
The F90 M5 is based on the G30 5 Series and uses an all-wheel drive ("xDrive") powertrain,
being the first time that an M5 has not been rear-wheel drive.[87][88] However the all-wheel
drive system is biased towards the rear wheels. It can also be configured to send power to the
rear wheels only, if the electronic stability control (ESC) is disabled.[89]
The exterior of the M5 was designed by Seungmo Lim.[90] The car was unveiled at the
Gamescom videogame convention in August 2017 (as part of the launch of the Need for
Speed Payback videogame).[91][92] The M5 was also shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show
(IAA) in September 2017.
The F90 M5 accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.4 seconds,[93] and to
200 km/h (124 mph) in 11.1 seconds.[89] In Imperial measurements 60 mph (97 km/h) is
reached in 2.8 seconds and 100 mph (161 km/h) in 6.6 seconds.[94] The top speed is limited to
250 km/h (155 mph), and the delimited top speed is 305 km/h (190 mph) with the optional M
Driver's Package.[89] Despite the added weight of the all-wheel drive components, the weight
of the F90 M5 is approximately 40 kg (88 lb) lower than the previous generation M5.[95] In
December 2017, the F90 M5 set the Guinness World Records for "Longest continuous vehicle
drift" and "Longest twin vehicle drift (water assisted)" on a wet skidpad, with distances of
374 km (232 mi) and 144 km (89 mi) respectively.[96] The F90 M5 recorded a Nürburgring lap
time of 7:38.92 in a test by Sport auto.[97]
The BMW M5 Competition model was introduced in August 2018, with power increased to
460 kW (617 hp) at 6,000 rpm and torque remaining unchanged at 750 N⋅m (553 lb⋅ft)
between 1,800–5,800 rpm.[98] The official 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) acceleration time was
reduced by 0.1 seconds compared with the regular M5. Other changes include stiffer springs,
increased front camber, a 7 mm (0.3 in) lower ride height, revised wheels and a redesigned
exhaust system with a particulate filter added.[99] In a test by sport auto the M5 Competition
lapped the Nürburgring in 7:35.90.[100] Although advertised at 460 kW (617 hp) (measured at
the crank) the M5 Competition in Car and Driver's dyno test showed 460 kW (617 hp) the
wheels, suggesting a higher output than advertised.[101]
The engine is an evolution of the S63 from the previous generation.[102] With a power output
of 441 kW (600 PS; 591 hp) the new M5 has the same power as the limited edition
"Competition Package" and "30 Jahre M5" models of the previous generation, while the
torque has been raised to 750 N⋅m (553 lb⋅ft), 70 N⋅m (52 lb⋅ft) more than in the previous M5.
The transmission is the eight-speed ZF 8HP automatic transmission.[103] The F90 is the first
M5 to use a torque converter automatic transmission (compared with the previous generation's
dual-clutch transmission), which BMW states was chosen for its durability and because shift
times are not significantly slower than a dual-clutch transmission.[104]
Special editions
To celebrate BMW M5 35th anniversary in 2019, BMW had built 350 special edition models,
named "35 Jahre BMW M5".[105] All 350 cars came in BMW special edition paint in the
Individual colour shade called the BMW Individual Frozen Dark Grey II. On the interior, “35
Jahre M5” is embroidered on the front door sill finishers and the seat backrests, and plaque
bearing “35 Jahre M5” and “1/350” inscriptions is placed on the dashboard.
See also
BMW 5 Series
BMW M3
BMW M6
References
1.
105. "The "35 Jahre M5" special model". www.bmw-m.com. Archived from the
original on 17 May 2019.
106.
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