[10] Cars sold in the United States and Canada used a detuned version of the M88/3 called the S38B35, which was equipped with a catalytic converter and has a power output of 191 kW (256 hp).
Power increased to 250 kW (340 PS; 335 hp),[27] leading to a factory 0-97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time of 5.9 seconds, and the ignition changed to a distributor-less system with each cylinder having an individual coil.
BMW also used a dual-mass flywheel in place of the single in the 3.5-litre version for a smoother idle and throttle input at the expense of response.
In 1992 BMW changed the design to the "M-System II" (nicknamed "throwing stars") which improved brake cooling from the combination of the larger openings and fins placed in the driving direction.
BMW's special edition M5 models offer driving enthusiasts an even more refined and exclusive version of an already extraordinary car.
[21] BMW developed a prototype convertible model, which featured an electric folding cloth roof and a steeper raked windshield than a standard M5.
[32] Steel reinforcements were added under both side valance panels to reduce body flex, and curb weight was approximately 100 kg (220 lb) more than the saloon model.
[33][34] It was driven by former F1 grand prix champion Alan Jones, Neville Crichton, and BMW Touring car driver Tony Longhurst.
[42] Changes included halogen "corona rings" in headlights (often called "Angel Eyes"), LED tail-lights and various interior upgrades.
[42] Production of a "Touring" (estate/wagon) E39 M5 model was evaluated by BMW, and at least one prototype was developed (in Titanium Silver with a Black Exclusive leather interior).
[37][44] The S62 engine has electronically actuated individual throttle bodies, an aluminium block and heads, variable valve timing (double-VANOS), and a semi-dry sump oil system.
A specific shock valving, thicker front and rear anti-roll bars, polyurethane auxiliary springs, and steel balljoints.
[42] It featured a Servotronic vehicle-speed-sensitive power assist which provides two levels of resistance controlled via console mounted Sport button.
[45] Brake discs (rotors) are a "floating" two-piece design (except for U.S. and Canada models), for reduced risk of cone distortion.
[37] The E60 M5 was introduced in 2004, with a V10 engine and 7-speed paddle-shift SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission linking the car with the BMW Sauber Formula One program.
[70][71] The six-speed manual M5 was marginally slower in certain tests, as the dynamic stability control could not be disengaged unlike the SMG version[72][73] (however this was later made possible and a retrofit was released for earlier cars).
[citation needed] The F10 M5 was praised for its improved gearbox and fuel economy; however, the engine sound, steering feel and increased weight were criticised.
The Competition Package increases peak engine power to 423 kW (575 PS; 567 hp) and has a revised suspension setup (bushings, springs, dampers, anti-roll bars) which lowers the car 10 mm (0.4 in).
[89] All 300 cars came in BMW special edition paint in the Individual colour shade called the Frozen Dark Silver metallic.
Other changes include stiffer springs, increased front camber, a 7 mm (0.3 in) lower ride height, revised wheels and a redesigned exhaust system with a particulate filter added.
The base model didn't receive any mechanical changes while the M5 Competition now has revised shock absorbers and tuning for the adjustable suspension system.
New features for the infotainment system include wireless Android Auto functionality, natural speech recognition, and BMW's cloud-based navigation that provides faster route calculations and more up-to-date traffic information.
Its notable differences include: Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) are used for the hood, front splitter, exterior mirror caps, lip spoiler and the rear diffuser, contributing to a weight saving of 70 kg over the M5 Competition.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic torque-converter gearbox and an integrated electric motor, this hybrid setup generates a total system power output of 535 kW (727 PS; 717 hp).
However, this was done because as Frank Van Meel, the BMW M CEO says, "Keeping the V8 and making the car comply with stricter emissions regulations was only possible with a plug-in hybrid setup.
BMW has retained the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system from the F90 with a rear-wheel bias, allowing for differing power amounts that can be sent to the rear wheels and includes a rear-wheel-drive-only mode.
[133] The exterior design incorporates signature M elements, such as flared wheel arches, a sculpted front end, and illuminated glow kidney grills.
[126] The interior showcases a Curved Display and an updated iDrive system from its predecessor which can be controlled by natural speech, touch, or smartphone integration.
Standard features include a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, four-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel.
[134] Production began in the same month at BMW’s Dingolfing plant, with a global market launch slated for November 2024, when the M5 Touring variant will also be introduced.