"BMW has released details of its next M5 super-saloon. To be the most powerful model in BMW's production line-up, it has a high-revving 5.0-litre V10 engine developed in collaboration with the BMW-Williams F1 team, giving 507bhp and 384lb ft of torque. The ten cylinders are arranged in two banks at a 9- degree angle, and feature BMW's bi-VANOS variable valve timing system with four valves per cylinder. Redline is at 8,250rpm - to provide a racing car feel, as well as out-and-out performance. Each cylinder has its own individual throttle, activated simultaneously, and in combination with the bi-VANOS set-up, BMW claims "increased performance, an improved torque curve, optimum responsiveness, lower consumption and fewer emissions." Make that blinding performance: official figures haven't yet been released, but the M5 is likely to have a 0-60 time of well below five seconds.
Seven-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission will be standard, a clutchless 'box with shift lever and steering-wheel mounted paddleshifts for gear-changing. BMW says that this new SMG is 20 percent quicker than the six-speed 'box currently on offer elsewhere in its range, and it incorporates six pre-selected programmes for gear shift patterns and a Launch Control function for a rapid getaway as well as a fully-auto mode for more laid-back moments.
The M5 made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year in "concept" form - see link below for full story - and it is expected to go on sale later this year, although right-hand drive versions may not be available until 2005. The show car was distinguished from lesser Fives by its modified front and rear air dams, a lowered bodyshell and suspension, exclusive wheel design and four exhaust tailpipes. Like the mainstream 5-Series models, it has an all-aluminium suspension set-up, but this incorporates elements of the 7-Series' suspension as well for improved comfort. Electronic aids include specially-tuned Dynamic Stability Control and a variable limited-slip differential, an anti-slip clutch function on the SMG and modified Servotronic steering - though BMW has not yet confirmed whether the controversial Active Steering will be offered. Brakes have been uprated, and the M5 sits on light-alloy 19-inch wheels. Prices will not be revealed until later in the year, but prospective buyers should put deposits down quickly as demand is likely to be high for the small allocation of right-hand drive examples. "
Seven-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission will be standard, a clutchless 'box with shift lever and steering-wheel mounted paddleshifts for gear-changing. BMW says that this new SMG is 20 percent quicker than the six-speed 'box currently on offer elsewhere in its range, and it incorporates six pre-selected programmes for gear shift patterns and a Launch Control function for a rapid getaway as well as a fully-auto mode for more laid-back moments.
The M5 made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year in "concept" form - see link below for full story - and it is expected to go on sale later this year, although right-hand drive versions may not be available until 2005. The show car was distinguished from lesser Fives by its modified front and rear air dams, a lowered bodyshell and suspension, exclusive wheel design and four exhaust tailpipes. Like the mainstream 5-Series models, it has an all-aluminium suspension set-up, but this incorporates elements of the 7-Series' suspension as well for improved comfort. Electronic aids include specially-tuned Dynamic Stability Control and a variable limited-slip differential, an anti-slip clutch function on the SMG and modified Servotronic steering - though BMW has not yet confirmed whether the controversial Active Steering will be offered. Brakes have been uprated, and the M5 sits on light-alloy 19-inch wheels. Prices will not be revealed until later in the year, but prospective buyers should put deposits down quickly as demand is likely to be high for the small allocation of right-hand drive examples. "
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i find this to be very wrong. it is an m series bmw that only comes auto. and i dont care if it is faster manuel is always going to be all that much better.