The next-generation BMW M5 stands more than a quarter-century of tradition firmly on its head by adopting a torque-laden, twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine--bringing to an end an illustrious era of high-revving, naturally aspirated powerplants for the iconic performance sedan first introduced in 1984.
BMW tells us not to fret. Although the new model, like the 5-series, is 1.8 inches longer and wider than its predecessor, extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum bodywork (hood, fenders, doors) attempts to keep mass close to the E60 M5’s 4100-pound curb weight.
2012 BMW M5 PerformanceTo help offset the increase in size, the hood, front wings and doors are all fashioned out of aluminum. The new M5 is the most powerful road car BMW has ever put into series production. Along with its heady horsepower output, the V8 direct-injection engine delivers a 501 lb-ft of torque on an extraordinarily wide band of revs stretching from 1,500 rpm to 5,750 rpm. BMW projects that the M5 will be capable of a 0-to-62-mph run in 4.4 seconds, and a top speed of 190 mph for cars fitted with the M Driver’s package.
Despite the wholesale increase in performance, BMW claims a 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption. The driver can also optimize the engine's overall economy through a button on the center console which adjusts its performance in three stages: efficient, sport and sport-plus.
2012 BMW M5 Interior
The Verdict
Vechile Type : front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedanBase Price (est): $90,000
Engine Type: twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 268 cu in, 4395 ccPower (SAE net): 560 hp @ 7000 rpmTorque (SAE net): 502 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
Transmision: 6-speed manual, 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode
Dimensions :Wheelbase: 116.7 in Length: 193.3 inWidth: 74.5 in Height: 57.1 inCurb weight*: 4350 lb
Performance (C/D EST):Zero to 60 mph: 3.9 secZero to 100 mph: 9.1 secStanding ¼-mile: 12.2 secTop speed (governor limited): 155–190 mph
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