PressClub United Kingdom · Article.
The BMW Concept M5
Wed Mar 03 12:00:00 CET 2004 Press Release
The vision of a high-performance future
Press Contact.
Barbara Brailey
BMW Group
Tel: +44-1344-480-320
Fax: +44-1344-480-306
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Author.
Barbara Brailey
BMW Group
Following 20 years production and three generations of the 'businessman's
express', BMW has shed a little light on the next generation M5 with the
unveiling of the BMW Concept M5 at the Geneva Motorshow (March 2, 2004).
Translating Formula 1 technology directly into a road car, the BMW Concept M5
is powered by a V10 engine - a BMW first. Delivering around 500bhp and 500Nm
of torque, the Concept M5 is capable of completing the zero to 62mph sprint in
well under five seconds.
Such impressive levels of performance are made possible by specially modified
Bi-VANOS camshaft timing, individual throttle butterflies and engine
electronics derived from the BMW Williams F1 car. These are linked to an
enhanced DSC traction control system, a variable limited slip differential and
adapted brakes to ensure that the Concept M5 offers an exhilarating, yet safe,
driving experience.
Alongside the engine developments, Formula 1 technology is carried over to the
gearbox. The Concept M5 is equipped with a seven-speed Sequential Manual
Gearbox - another first for BMW.
Under the skin, the BMW Concept M5 is based on the 5 Series saloon launched in
2003, both cars benefiting from an aluminium chassis and lightweight aluminium
front body panels. Visually, the BMW Concept M5 stands apart from its
'standard' 5 Series brethren by the addition of modified front and rear air
dams, side sills, side air vents and four exhaust tailpipes. Additionally, it
has M alloy wheels of an exclusive design measuring 8.5J x 19 on the
front and 9.5J x 19 on the rear, with 255 / 40 ZR 19 and 285 / 35 ZR 19 tyres
respectively.
While the BMW Concept M5 is strictly a concept car, a production version of the
car could be available within a year.
Ends