Post by Bruce Wayne on Jul 6, 2004 19:12:33 GMT -5
The M stands for memorable.
BMW's highly anticipated M5 makes its debut.
Twenty years later since the introduction of the first M5, BMW debuts its fourth generation M5. The new M5 is the most advanced and powerful M5 yet. Despite its overly exagerated features, we feel the new M5 is better looking than the 5 series.
The new BMW M5 is powered by a V10 engine that produces 507 horsepower when measured by European standards. This is an amazing 100 horsepwer per liter. Especially when considering that the Dodge Viper makes 500 horsepower but has a 8.3 liter engine. However while it is amazing, torque suffers when compared to the Viper. The V10 in the Viper produces 525 lb-ft of torque while the V10 in the M5 produces only 383 lb-ft.
The M5's V10 engine is mated with BMW's seven speed SMG transmission. Shifts can be made from either the lever on the center console or the paddles on the steering wheel. If you decide you do not wish to shift manually, the transmission can be shifted to the Drive mode which shifts automatically, depending on which of the five programs is selected, the driving situation, the road speed and the position of the accelerator pedal.
With the powerful engine and wonderful SMG transmission the new M5 can reach 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds. The car is electronically limited to 155 miles per hour. According to BMW, the new M5 will stop from 62 mph (100 km/h) in under 120 feet.
It's combination of a powerful engine, advanced transmission, and precise handling this M5 like the M5s before it should be another great seller, and another hit for BMW.