2005 BMW M5

It would be unfair and inaccurate to claim that the fourth generation 2005 version of BMW’s M5 series was an earth shattering development when it was launched in that year, twenty years after the first model hit the streets, Three generations of design styles later, and more than 35,000 cars produced and sold, the BMW M5 series has carved out a special niche in the annals of mid range luxury car history.

Following the BMW tradition of understatement, the fourth generation M5 gives very little away form it external appearance about how powerful a car it really is. A few hints are given here and there, in the car’s modified front spoiler, rear apron and the modified side sills. Changes have been made to the wheel arches, now much more prominent than in previous models, to accommodate the new and more generous wheel and tire package. Other minor touches to the body shaping include aerodynamic exterior mirrors, front fender gills and four tailpipes.
Carrying on the subdued yet sport look into the interior, the M5 features exclusive features leather upholstered sports seats. Leather carries its way through the interior styling touches Design features that are exclusive to BMW ranging from the center console to the instrument panel and steering wheel are all unique as well as the optional head-up display is M-specific.

Where BMW have taken this fourth generation M5 up a wrung or two in the power ladder is by installing a V10 engine, the first time an engine so powerful has been installed in a standard production saloon. The new BMW V10 engine is capable of producing 507 horsepower and 393 pounds per feet of torque. BMW engineers claimed when the car was launched in 2006 that the car offered then highest and best power-to-weight ratio and revolutions per minute for a car in its class. In order to accommodate this power, BMW made some fairly considerable improvements to the chassis.

Power to the wheels of the M5 is through a seven speed SMG gearbox, with gear changes being made either through paddle on the steering wheel or on a stick shift on the center console. Again in the fourth series, BMW succeeded in considerably increasing the smoothness and consistency of their gear changes, with improvements of up to 20% faster being reported.

The BMW M5 is a fast car, and especially for a saloon. It is capable of reaching 0 to 60 miles per hour (0-100 km/h) in around 4.8 seconds and while its top speed is electronically controlled at a cautious 155 miles per hour (250km/h), reading between the lines it could reach around 205 mph. (340 km/h).

Complementing the M5’S high performance potential, the saloon has been fitted high performance brakes, which are generously sized and comprise perforated compound brake discs, designed for maximum stiffness and the minimum of unsprung weight. Records show that this brake configuration will pull the new M5 to a dead stop in less than 120 feet whilst traveling at 62 mph (100 km/h). The car will also stop dead when brakes are applied when the car is traveling at a speed of 124 mph (200 km/h) in just under 460 feet.

The 2005 BMW M5 also provided the owner with plenty of opportunities to stamp a personal footprint on the car through the wide varieties of customization options available. It continued its path of popularity for people who want a performance car that as well as being fast, is comfortable, reliable and provides excellent value for money. And that is what the BMW M5 series has been doing now for almost a quarter of a century.




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April 3, 2008, 6:29 am