Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Chris Harris explains what makes his own 1986 BMW M5 so special]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/chris-harris-explains-what-makes-his-own-1986-bmw-m5-so-special/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/chris-harris-explains-what-makes-his-own-1986-bmw-m5-so-special/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/chris-harris-explains-what-makes-his-own-1986-bmw-m5-so-special/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The 70s were a definitive decade for music and movies. Fashion and cars, not so much. The 80s corrected one of those oversights, an era of ethereal supercars like the Porsche 959, game-changing exotics like the Ferrari Testarossa, and, best of all, everday cannons that offered mortals a generous portion of lairy thrills, such as Chris Harris' 1986 e28 BMW M5.

In 1986, a 3,100-pound, 286-horsepower luxury sedan straight from the factory that could also handle was as rare as a goose with lips. Sure, there was a more powerful AMG Mercedes-Benz E-Class but it didn't want to get into a lengthy conversation about handling, and there was the AMG Hammer, but that was a terrifically expensive tuner special. The M5 weighed the same as the 1986 Chevrolet Corvette and had 225-section rear tires just like the 'Vette, but the M5 had 36 more horsepower. And it had four, leather-covered seats. And it could corner.

All of which has to do with why Drive's Chris Harris spends eight minutes explaining, and showing, why he loves his personal M5 so much. Scroll down to learn about the sedan that compels him to say "it's the best money I've ever spent on a car."

Continue reading Chris Harris explains what makes his own 1986 BMW M5 so special

Chris Harris explains what makes his own 1986 BMW M5 so special originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1986 bmw m55 seriesbmwbmw m5chris harrisdrivee28m5videoFri, 25 May 2012 13:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20243975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/chris-harris-explains-what-makes-his-own-1986-bmw-m5-so-special/20243975/article-detail.xml 20243975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/harrise28m53_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/harrise28m53.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The new BMW M5 is taking a one-week, 3,300-mile U.S. road trip, and not only will it tour the skeevy diners, restless rest areas and truck-stop toilets of this fine land, it'll eat up its tires on nine of our nation's finest tracks. If you think that sounds like the Tire Rack One Lap of America, you'd be correct.

In addition to providing the official vehicles for the event, the Munich firm is sending a team of drivers from its BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina to compete in the newly created 'Showroom Stock' category. This year's week-long race begins May 4 in South Bend, Indiana, and as with all the other entries, the M5 will get just one set of tires to test its gumption in various motorsports disciplines and thousands of highway miles. Follow the jump for a press release with more info and be sure to check out One Lap Of America's website for updates when the event kicks off in May.

Continue reading BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America

BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m55 series5-seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5bmw performance centerm5one lapone lap of americaSun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20200268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/20200268/article-detail.xml 20200268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmwm5oloa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmwm5oloa.jpg <![CDATA[Chris Harris + M5 + GT-R. You'll want to watch this]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Pitting the Nissan GT-R against the all-new BMW M5 is ridiculous. They're two different beasts in two different classes with two different purposes. It's a cynical, SEO-optimized comparison. And even worse, it's already been done. But...

We can't help but post on it. Not because it's clicky or that a few of us have man-crushes on Chris Harris. No. It's because watching the two cars being flogged back-to-back on a damp circuit demonstrates how technologically sophisticated each one is and how they go about putting the power down so differently. You can actually see the GT-R - traction control switched off - trying to right itself as Harris flings it sideways, while the M5 slackens and goes neutral while the turbocharged eight responds like a naturally aspirated mill.

Scary with a capital "F?" Indeed. But just as educating as it is entertaining. See for yourself below the fold.

Continue reading Chris Harris + M5 + GT-R. You'll want to watch this

Chris Harris + M5 + GT-R. You'll want to watch this originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 nissan gt-rbmwbmw m5chris harrisdrivem5nissannissan gt-rnissan gtrWed, 15 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172786/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/20172786/article-detail.xml 20172786 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/harris-gtr-m5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/harris-gtr-m5.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Autocar</i> gets sideways in the 2012 BMW M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/01/autocar-gets-sideways-in-the-2012-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/01/autocar-gets-sideways-in-the-2012-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/01/autocar-gets-sideways-in-the-2012-bmw-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 drift video

The 2012 BMW M5 is something of an anomaly. Despite its size and weight, the big luxury sedan is actually quicker than its less corpulent sibling, the BMW M3, around a road course. With a 552-horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine capable of sucking down small communities, there's no arguing the M5's power. But fast cars aren't necessarily fun. Take the Jaguar XKR, for example. It's blisteringly quick, but comes saddled with a traction control system that requires an advanced degree in computer science and a thorough comprehension of black magic to completely disengage. Roasting the tires in the big cat hardly seems worth it.

The M5 is no such beast. The goons at Autocar recently took the portly bruiser out for a little parking lot fun to see just how the machine performs once things get sideways. It would seem that the muscle-bound German is a willing dance partner. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself.

Continue reading Autocar gets sideways in the 2012 BMW M5

Autocar gets sideways in the 2012 BMW M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 BMW M5autocarbmwBMW M3bmw m4BMW M5bmw m5 drift videodriftdrift videom5m5 drift videoSun, 01 Jan 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20137646/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/01/autocar-gets-sideways-in-the-2012-bmw-m5/20137646/article-detail.xml 20137646 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-bmw-m5-drift-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-bmw-m5-drift-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M5 quicker than 1 M Coupe quicker than M3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 front three-quarter

Autobild recently set out to settle the question of which M vehicle is the fastest in the BMW stable at the moment. Not surprisingly, the German enthusiast publication found the BMW M3 CRT to be the quickest around the Sachsenring, setting the magazine's fastest time around the track with a 1:38.37 minute lap time. That's impressive, but not nearly as astounding as the time drummed up by the new BMW M5. The portly sedan did the same deed in 1:38.90, or just three hundredths of a second slower than the special-edition M3.

And what of the sibling rivalry between the BMW 1 Series M Coupe and the standard M3? As it turns out, the magazine's shoes have given the nod to the smaller of the two coupes. The 1 Series M Coupe barely eked out a win over the M3, though the M3 Convertible took nearly two extra seconds to make it around the course than its hardtop twin.

BMW M5 quicker than 1 M Coupe quicker than M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series1 series m1 series m coupe1m coupeautobildbmw 1 series m coupebmw mbmw m3bmw m5mm1m3m5Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20136715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/20136715/article-detail.xml 20136715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 gets dyno'd, all ate up with power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/2012-bmw-m5-gets-dynod-all-ate-up-with-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/2012-bmw-m5-gets-dynod-all-ate-up-with-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/26/2012-bmw-m5-gets-dynod-all-ate-up-with-power/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 dyno

A German tuning outfit called PP-Performance has put the 2012 BMW M5 on a Maha dyno, and the numbers returned were 444 horsepower at the wheel, 553 at the engine, and a "corrected number" of 574 hp. Max torque came in at 532 pound-feet (721 Newton/meters).

Compare those figures to the official numbers of 560 horses and 502 lb-ft. If the 444 number is accurate, then no matter how you slice it on horsepower - whether you use the numbers from BMW or PP-P's figures - you're losing around 20 percent from the engine to the wheels. However, adjusting for driveline and twin-turbo losses, that puts things right about where they should be. The 30-lb-ft surplus of torque, on the other hand, is the kind of surplus no one would complain about - again, assuming it's accurate.

Follow the jump for video of the dyno run, and for another vid of the M5 being taken to 293 km/hr (182 mph). And with that second vid, try to ignore the fact that the terminal velocity attempt is being conducted on an engine with just 40 kilometers on it...

Continue reading 2012 BMW M5 gets dyno'd, all ate up with power

2012 BMW M5 gets dyno'd, all ate up with power originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw2012 bmw m52012 m5bmw m5bmw m5 dynodynof10 m5m5m5 dynovideoMon, 26 Dec 2011 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20134767/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/26/2012-bmw-m5-gets-dynod-all-ate-up-with-power/20134767/article-detail.xml 20134767 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmwf10m5dybno_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmwf10m5dybno.jpg <![CDATA[Vicki from <i>Fifth Gear</i> wrings out BMW's new M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/vicki-from-fifth-gear-wrings-out-bmws-new-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/vicki-from-fifth-gear-wrings-out-bmws-new-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/vicki-from-fifth-gear-wrings-out-bmws-new-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Vicki Butler-Henderson of Fifth Gear has taken the 2012 BMW M5 into her deft hands and massaged it oh-so-gently through the corners and curbing of southern France. All right, quite the opposite of "gently," instead preferring to put a billowing white chokehold on every single one of the M5's 560 horsepower and 502 pound-feet.

Check out the video after the jump for VBH's detailed take - and plenty of powerslides. Her conclusion? Much the same as ours - BMW's new super saloon is almost perfect.

Continue reading Vicki from Fifth Gear wrings out BMW's new M5

Vicki from Fifth Gear wrings out BMW's new M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw2012 bmw m52012 m55 seriesbmwbmw m5fifth gearm5Vicki Butler-HendersonvideoMon, 19 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20130443/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/19/vicki-from-fifth-gear-wrings-out-bmws-new-m5/20130443/article-detail.xml 20130443 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/m5fifthgearvicki_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/m5fifthgearvicki.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 irks Welsh seagulls with a romp in the sand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/2012-bmw-m5-irks-welsh-seagulls-with-a-romp-in-the-sand/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/2012-bmw-m5-irks-welsh-seagulls-with-a-romp-in-the-sand/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/13/2012-bmw-m5-irks-welsh-seagulls-with-a-romp-in-the-sand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 BMW M5

There are many number of ways you can support your country's athletes heading into the Olympics. You could watch them on television. You could follow them to the site and get tickets for your favorite events. You could buy and wear some official team apparel. But if you're BMW, none of that will do. No, you're going to do some hooning. Something that involves, say, pulling donuts on the beach in a twin-turbo super-sedan.

That's just what the Bavarian automaker, which acts as official automotive partner (read: car sponsor) for the 2012 Olympic Games in London, has done to promote its participation and support the athletes. Which is fine by us, because it gives us the opportunity to watch... a twin-turbo super-sedan pulling donuts on the beach. Or to be more specific, the new M5 at the hands of stunt driver Wolfgang Weber at Pendine Sands in Wales.

Follow the jump to watch the footage.

Continue reading 2012 BMW M5 irks Welsh seagulls with a romp in the sand

2012 BMW M5 irks Welsh seagulls with a romp in the sand originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 olympicsadbmwbmw m5bmw olympicscommerciallondon olympicsm5olympicsvideoTue, 13 Dec 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127105/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/13/2012-bmw-m5-irks-welsh-seagulls-with-a-romp-in-the-sand/20127105/article-detail.xml 20127105 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/m5-sand_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/m5-sand.jpg <![CDATA[BMW working on carbon-ceramic brakes for M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/bmw-working-on-carbon-ceramic-brakes-for-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/bmw-working-on-carbon-ceramic-brakes-for-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/bmw-working-on-carbon-ceramic-brakes-for-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW M5 Brakes

Word has it that BMW is working on some serious stoppers for its M5. According to Bimmerfile, Dr. Herbert Diess, a member of the BMW board of management, has confirmed that the company is currently testing carbon ceramic discs for the M5 and upcoming M6. Brake supplier Brembo has teamed up with SGL Carbon for a joint venture to manufacture the discs, and Brembo is already responsible for bits like the multi-piston calipers already at work on the 2012 M5.

So, when we can we expect to see carbon discs on the performance sedan? That still remains unclear. Diess says that the hardware is at least another year out from production, which dovetails nicely with the scheduled arrival of the M5 on American shores. Even so, no one is saying whether the brakes will come as part of an optional package or as standard equipment on the 2013 model. Stay tuned.

BMW working on carbon-ceramic brakes for M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m5bmwbmw m5brakesbrembocarbon ceramicm5Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20065744/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/26/bmw-working-on-carbon-ceramic-brakes-for-m5/20065744/article-detail.xml 20065744 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmw-m5-brakes-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmw-m5-brakes-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is what 186 mph in a 2012 BMW M5 looks like]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/25/this-is-what-186-mph-in-a-2012-bmw-m5-looks-like/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/25/this-is-what-186-mph-in-a-2012-bmw-m5-looks-like/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/25/this-is-what-186-mph-in-a-2012-bmw-m5-looks-like/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 video screen capture

By all accounts, the 2012 BMW M5 is nothing short of a mechanical miracle. With two fewer cylinders than the previous generation, the big bruiser manages to retain the acceleration and handling prowess that M buyers have come to expect. But where exactly can you use the full breadth of the four-door's 560 horsepower in a safe and legal capacity? The Autobahn, that's where. One enterprising soul recently managed to point the long nose of the M5 toward the horizon on the German highway system, planted his foot in the carpet and held on all the way to 300 kph.

That's a shave over 186 mph for those of you too disinterested to fire up your calculator, and impressive momentum in any vehicle, let alone a bone-stock family cruiser. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourselves. Just remember not to try this sort of insanity at home.

Continue reading This is what 186 mph in a 2012 BMW M5 looks like

This is what 186 mph in a 2012 BMW M5 looks like originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 bmw m5 videoautobahnautobahn videobmwbmw m5bmw m5 videom5m5 autobahnm5 autobahn videom5 videovideoSun, 25 Sep 2011 18:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20065746/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/25/this-is-what-186-mph-in-a-2012-bmw-m5-looks-like/20065746/article-detail.xml 20065746 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmw-m5-300-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmw-m5-300-628.jpg <![CDATA[Active Sound Design enhances V8 burble inside BMW M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/active-sound-design-enhances-v8-burble-inside-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/active-sound-design-enhances-v8-burble-inside-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/active-sound-design-enhances-v8-burble-inside-bmw-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 BMW M5

Here's an interesting tidbit we missed while scouring through BMW's massive press release on the 2012 M5. According to the text, BMW has employed a system it's calling "Active Sound Design" on the new M5, which takes in engine speed and load data from the ECU and plumbs it through the stereo to play a real-time recording of the M5's engine.

Here's BMW's official explanation:

The Active Sound Design technology specially developed for the new BMW M5 takes its cues from the driving situation at any one time to deliver an accurate reproduction of the engine's sound through the car's audio system. The system's digital signal processing exchanges data directly with the engine management, allowing it to reflect the engine's revs and torque, and the car's speed over the road. The result over a smoothly driven journey is a discreet soundtrack in keeping with the harmonious and assured characteristics of the V8 powerplant. A stamp on the accelerator, meanwhile, prompts an immediate audible response to match the instantaneous - and typically M - burst of power from beneath the bonnet.

BMW claims the system provides an "extremely accurate impression of current engine load" and that the sound has been optimized to spread across the entire cabin. Not only that, but when Sport or Sport+ is engaged, the sound inside the M5 is enhanced and perfectly sequenced with induction, engine and exhaust noises. We're not sure if we're geeked or disturbed, but it's certainly trick.

Active Sound Design enhances V8 burble inside BMW M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m5active sound designbmwbmw m5m5Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20050916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/23/active-sound-design-enhances-v8-burble-inside-bmw-m5/20050916/article-detail.xml 20050916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/44-2012-bmw-m5-fd-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/44-2012-bmw-m5-fd-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/2012-bmw-m5-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/2012-bmw-m5-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/2012-bmw-m5-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lose Two Cylinders, Gain Two Turbos, Take No Prisoners

2012 BMW M5

The first BMW M5, the humble E28 of 1984, had little idea of the performance bloodline it would sire. Its equally humble sales figures proved it: just 2,241 were built. Previous to the 2004 arrival of the E60 M5, the '84 original and the much better-selling E34 that succeeded it in 1988 both carried excellent inline sixes that offered between 256 SAE horsepower in the first-generation's North American trim and 340 European DIN horses by the end of its run in 1995. Good for their time. The E39 M5, however, was the first model in the franchise that BMW really set loose, running an almost 5.0-liter V8 from 1998 until 2003 that offered up 400 hp in European trim. This generation did very well, finding its way into more than 20,000 driveways.

Beginning in July of 2004, BMW Motorsport went nuts, tying the entire M5 project to its famously costly Formula 1 involvement. Many racing fans would note that BMW's F1 program was not only costly, it achieved dismal results. At least their misadventure gifted us the E60 and its "holy crap!" all-aluminum 5.0-liter V10 engine. Compared to the three preceding M5s dressed in civilian clothing, the flared Chris Bangle-era M5 and its free-revving 500-horsepower S85 engine was a sequined Miss Universe contestant belting out power ballads. Again, over 20,000 were sold, almost all sedans, and, man, have we ever done a lot of impressively useless burn outs and hammering Launch Control starts ever since. By far, the United States has been the Number One market for E60s, with over 8,000 sold here before the building stopped in March of last year.

Then BMW left the F1 circus, F1 abandoned V10s, and Munich focused hard on a greener Efficient Dynamics gospel. The tear-jerking S85 was retired without fanfare.

['Scuse the long preamble, but with a new M5, it's crucial to remember from whence we've come.]

Continue reading 2012 BMW M5 [w/video]

2012 BMW M5 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m5bmwbmw m5f10 m5featuredfirst driveFirstDrivem5m5 reviewThu, 22 Sep 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20048994/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/22/2012-bmw-m5-first-drive-review/20048994/article-detail.xml 20048994 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 tackles Laguna Seca]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/2012-bmw-m5-tackles-laguna-seca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/2012-bmw-m5-tackles-laguna-seca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/2012-bmw-m5-tackles-laguna-seca/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A 2012 BMW M5 and free rein at California's legendary Laguna Seca circuit sounds like a near-perfect way to spend a day. BMW agrees with that line of thinking, and it was kind enough to bring a long a camera. Well, you could easily replace "kind" with "annoyingly torturous" since we aren't the ones wearing the helmet and driving suit.

Regardless, we still enjoyed the clip and we think you will too - especially when you hear just how ruthlessly the sound from 560-horsepower twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 assaults your eardrums. Click past the jump to check it out.

Continue reading 2012 BMW M5 tackles Laguna Seca

2012 BMW M5 tackles Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 m55 series5-seriesbmwbmw m5laguna secam5m5 laguna secam5 videovideoTue, 23 Aug 2011 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20024786/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/23/2012-bmw-m5-tackles-laguna-seca/20024786/article-detail.xml 20024786 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-bmw-m5-at-laguna-seca-1314120705_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-bmw-m5-at-laguna-seca-1314120705.jpg <![CDATA[Owner left with bill for burnt BMW after Vancouver riots]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/19/owner-left-with-bill-for-burnt-bmw-after-vancouver-riots/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/19/owner-left-with-bill-for-burnt-bmw-after-vancouver-riots/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/19/owner-left-with-bill-for-burnt-bmw-after-vancouver-riots/#commentsFiled under: ,



The Vancouver riot was a disgraceful act that played out in an otherwise wonderful Canadian city. Violent rage filled the streets, and misguided idiots turned their furious attention to local property in the form of store fronts and automobiles. One particular automobile was a black BMW M5 belonging to Jazmin Perez, who fought hard to try and keep the masses away from her German super sedan. Unfortunately for Perez, the ruthless mob didn't relent and her expensive machine burnt to the ground. Her saga doesn't end there, however, because Jazmin Perez is now on the hook for thousands of dollars worth of damages.

The BMW M5 in question was leased to Perez, who had insurance to cover the market value of the car. With her car now torched and ruined, Perez now needs to pay the difference between the insurance payout (fair market value) and the remaining balance she owes on her lease. The total she owes is reportedly in the thousands of dollars. Her insurance company and the leasing company both say they understand this was not her fault, yet contracts are contracts and Perez is the one who signed on the dotted line.

We feel for Perez in this situation. Mostly because she now owes thousands on a car that was destroyed by idiots, but especially because that car was a BMW M5.

Head over to CBC News for video of Jazmin Perez discussing her situation.

Owner left with bill for burnt BMW after Vancouver riots originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m5burnt m5jazmin perezriot insuranceriotsvancouvervancouver m5 destroyedvancouver riotsFri, 19 Aug 2011 16:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20022105/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/19/owner-left-with-bill-for-burnt-bmw-after-vancouver-riots/20022105/article-detail.xml 20022105 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/burnt-m5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/burnt-m5.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 makes North American debut at Laguna Seca]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW M5

The 2012 BMW M5 has finally landed on U.S. shores and BMW has trotted out its oldest sibling - the same E28 we drove last year - at California's Laguna Seca raceway to mark the occasion.

After its debut at the Nürburgring early this year, BMW boxed up its latest M machine for the festivities here in Monterey and will be shuffling it around to various events throughout the week.

Our first in-the-flesh impressions are beyond favorable, with an exterior that's far less gauche than its predecessor, finally putting the "executive" back in "executive sports sedan." Inside, the professional demeanor carries over, with less flash and a more driver-focused interior.

As if you need a reminder, the M5 now packs a modified version of the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 fitted to the X5 M and X6 M, putting out 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque - the latter of which is available from 1,500 to over 5,750 rpm. Redline is a decidedly un-M-like 7,250 rpm, but the blast to 60 mph happens in claimed 4.2 seconds when fitted with the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

And what about a manual option? BMW officials delivered the standard "we're looking into it" line, but we suspect they're already testing a six-speed 'box that could be an option after the M5 goes on sale in the U.S. this February. Check out our high-res gallery above and let us know what you think in Comments.

2012 BMW M5 makes North American debut at Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 m55 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5laguna secam5Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020374/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/20020374/article-detail.xml 20020374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/03-2012-bmw-m5-live-laguna-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/03-2012-bmw-m5-live-laguna-630op.jpg <![CDATA[BMW confirms M-tuned 5 Series diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 in motion

As part of the buildup to this weekend's Pebble Beach Concours weekend, Autoblog senior editor Damon Lavrinc is in Monterey with BMW, where he has been able to confirm that the 5 Series will receive a diesel model tuned by the automaker's M performance division.

Interestingly, the much-rumored high-performance model will probably not be badged as an M5 variant. Instead, it will likely adopt a nomenclature similar to that of the 1 Series M Coupe. Further, because of the diesel's expected high torque output, the M-tuned diesel 5 Series is likely to be offered exclusively with all-wheel drive. Following traditional BMW naming guidelines, that means the vehicle is likely to get an ungainly moniker like BMW 550d xDrive M or something similar (TheDetroitBureau.com suggests 550dM or 550dXM as other possibilities).

The 3.0-liter tri-turbo's torque output is likely to be prodigious - perhaps in the neighborhood of 650 pound-feet (the conventional gas M5 makes 500 lb-ft), a figure more commonly associated with heavy duty pickups. Even if you've managed to wrap your gray matter around that torque surplus, you're probably still pondering the idea of a triple-turbo engine. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, the new powerplant will be based on the current 3.0-liter diesel we've come to know and love, albeit significantly modified, including a unique cylinder head. The engine will make use of a single, small turbo to help avoid lag at launch, coupled with a pair of larger twin-scroll units to augment power at speed. We hear that peak ponies will be down from the M5's 560-horsepower output, though it is still likely to stay about 500.

Predictably, the new engine is also expected to find its way into high-performance versions of BMW's X5 and X6 crossovers, both of which already offer physics-defying M models of their own.

BMW confirms M-tuned 5 Series diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series535d550dm550dxmbmwbmw mbmw m5diesel m5xdriveWed, 17 Aug 2011 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020206/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/20020206/article-detail.xml 20020206 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-bmw-m5-blue-moving_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-bmw-m5-blue-moving.jpg <![CDATA[BMW planning M5 with diesel, all-wheel drive?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/bmw-planning-m5-with-diesel-all-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/bmw-planning-m5-with-diesel-all-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/bmw-planning-m5-with-diesel-all-wheel-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW M5

It wasn't that long ago that a BMW with all-wheel drive - or really, anything other than rear-wheel drive - would have seemed downright apocryphal. But these days the Bavarian automaker offers traction at all four corners on a growing variety of vehicles... including the X5 M and X6 M crossovers. But an M5? If you shudder at the thought, you may want to stop reading here, because word on the street is that BMW is not only planning to place an extra driveshaft in the M5, but also give it - gasp! - a diesel.

The rumors are sparked by an apparently official document that includes a model designated M550dX. The first letter and number we all know and love. The 50 reportedly refers to a new triple-turbo diesel inline-six set to be unveiled at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The D, of course, refers to the diesel fuel it will burn, and the X for all-wheel drive.

Although most M cars these days carry simpler names like M3 and M5, enthusiasts will note that one of the division's first products was the M535i of 1979, which came along long before the first M5 in 1984. Could BMW be planning on returning to this nomenclature for its first diesel, all-wheel-drive performance sedan? We'll have to wait and see.

BMW planning M5 with diesel, all-wheel drive? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>550dxbmwbmw 550dxbmw m5bmw m550dxm5m550dxThu, 11 Aug 2011 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20015256/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/11/bmw-planning-m5-with-diesel-all-wheel-drive/20015256/article-detail.xml 20015256 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw-m5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw-m5.jpg <![CDATA[An engineer's tour of the 2012 BMW M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/an-engineers-tour-of-the-2012-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/an-engineers-tour-of-the-2012-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/an-engineers-tour-of-the-2012-bmw-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 bmw m5 walkthrough

You don't care about the outer skin. You don't care that it has Bluetooth. You've given a whiff of concern about what sound system it comes equipped with. No, you want to know what's going on under the body work, behind the wheels, beneath the hood and below the interior. You love engineering details, and BMWBlog has put together a trio of videos to feed your fix.

Today's subject: the 2012 BMW M5.

The videos bring you into and under the all new M sedan, and they are waiting for you after the jump. Grab a pencil, some graph paper and take in all of the nitty-gritty details.

Continue reading An engineer's tour of the 2012 BMW M5

An engineer's tour of the 2012 BMW M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 m5bmwbmw m5m5m5 technical walkthroughvideoTue, 09 Aug 2011 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20012692/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/09/an-engineers-tour-of-the-2012-bmw-m5/20012692/article-detail.xml 20012692 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw-m5-engineer-tour_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw-m5-engineer-tour.jpg <![CDATA[Edo Competition says <i>auf wiedersehen</i> with BMW M5 Dark Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/edo-competition-says-auf-wiedersehen-with-bmw-m5-dark-edi/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/edo-competition-says-auf-wiedersehen-with-bmw-m5-dark-edi/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/edo-competition-says-auf-wiedersehen-with-bmw-m5-dark-edi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Edo Competition BMW M5 Dark Edition
Edo Competition BMW M5 Dark Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

You can't stop the relentless march of progress, but it doesn't hurt to stop and take a look around every now and then at what you're leaving behind. Take the BMW M5, for example. The new twin-turbo model is, in every measurable way, better than the car it replaces. But we sure are going to miss that screeching V10.

Edo Competition is, too, and to bid farewell to the ten-cylinder super-sedan, the company has come out with one last modification package. Called the Dark Edition, the German tuning house has taken an M5 wagon and turned it into something fierce. By fitting new cats, air filters and exhaust and tweaking the ECU, they've boosted output up from 500 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque to 555 hp and 413 lb-ft. Tasty.

All that extra muscle is said to be enough to drop half a second off the 0-62 mile-per-hour time, now down to 4.2 seconds, while raising the previously limited top speed from 155 mph to an Autobahn-crunching 190. And with the long-roof body-style, that means you can take the entire family, all their luggage and the dog on your high-speed jaunt to just about anywhere the road can take you.

The engine mods are coupled with a full aero kit, 20-inch alloys riding on a thin band of Dunlop rubber and a revised interior. And though the press release - which you can check out after the jump along with the high-res images in the gallery - makes no mention of a brake upgrade, we'd hope an outfit like Edo would know how to keep all that muscle in check.

Continue reading Edo Competition says auf wiedersehen with BMW M5 Dark Edition

Edo Competition says auf wiedersehen with BMW M5 Dark Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m5bmw m5 dark editionedoedo competitionm5Mon, 04 Jul 2011 18:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19982659/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/04/edo-competition-says-auf-wiedersehen-with-bmw-m5-dark-edi/19982659/article-detail.xml 19982659 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web-m54_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web-m54.jpg <![CDATA[Forza Motorsports 4 gets the limited-edition treatment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/30/forza-motorsports-4-gets-the-limited-edition-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/30/forza-motorsports-4-gets-the-limited-edition-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/30/forza-motorsports-4-gets-the-limited-edition-treatment/#commentsFiled under: ,

forza 4 limited collector's edition

Forza 4 is set to hit stores on October 11th, and Turn 10 Studios wants you ordering the game before the leaves start to change color. A limited collector's edition has been announced, which is chock full of goodies, both virtual and real. For $79.99, Xboxers will receive a special tin that contains the game, a 96-page photo book titled Cars of Forza Motorsport 4 presented by Top Gear, vinyl stickers and a slew of downloadable content.

Those who opt for the limited collector's edition will be able to download the VIP Car Pack and Ship Bonus Car Pack. The former includes the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, Ferrari 458 Challenge, Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera, Noble M600 and Ruf Rt 12 R. The Cars of the Ship Pack are a 1965 Ford Mustang GT, Koenigsegg Agera, 1997 Lexus SC300, Ruf RGT-8 and Tesla Roadster. A pack of 10 muscles cars will also be available, as well the winning cars in a Forza-sponsored BMW design challenge contest.

Speaking of BMW, the 2012 M5 serves as the cover car for the limited collector's edition version of the game. The furious four-door is, of course, also available within the game.

Forza Motorsports 4 gets the limited-edition treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m5bmwbmw m5forzaforza 4forza motorsports 4forza motorsports 4 limited collectors editionturn 10xboxThu, 30 Jun 2011 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19979252/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/30/forza-motorsports-4-gets-the-limited-edition-treatment/19979252/article-detail.xml 19979252 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/fm4-lce-art1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/fm4-lce-art1.jpg -1 2