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[This is the difference between a sports sedan and the GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

m5 versus gtr

Okay, this is an easy one. If we told you to pick a performance winner between the Nissan GT-R and the BMW M5, we're guessing the vast majority of you would pick Godzilla to come out on top. Both vehicles feature over 500 horsepower, but the BMW weighs over 400 pounds more, and the GT-R counters with one of the world's most impressive all-wheel-drive systems.

That didn't stop the Autocar team from pitting the M5 against the GT-R in a test of acceleration, cornering, braking, G-force and general feel. Given the GT-R's 0-60 time of 2.8 seconds and its reputation for otherworldly handling, you know how this one is going to play out. But will the Nissan super coupe take all five tests? To be honest, a few of the tests were a bit closer than we would have thought. Hit the jump to check it out.

Continue reading This is the difference between a sports sedan and the GT-R

This is the difference between a sports sedan and the GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autocarbmwgt-4gt-rm5nissanvideoThu, 09 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/20167771/article-detail.xml 20167771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/m5-v-gtr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/m5-v-gtr.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M Performance

We just wrapped up the Detroit Auto Show, but BMW has already moved on to Geneva. The German automaker announced today that it's going to be showing a new line of what it's calling "M Performance Automobiles" at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

These vehicles will sit between standard Bimmers and M vehicles in the lineup, and apparently offer more than just cosmetics. While BMW has offered M Sport appearance packages over the past two decades, today's announcement specifically mentions "exclusive engine variants" and suspension tweaks among the upgrades M Performance models would offer. Given the mention of both all-wheel drive and diesel models in the announcement, it seems like the new line is specifically geared towards both of those features that BMW likely believes would tarnish the original M line or just wouldn't be appropriate for an M3 or M5.

We're awaiting a reply from BMW on what this announcement means for the U.S. market, but we imagine the M Performance cars sold here might resemble something like the 2003-2006 ZHP performance package sold on the E46 3 Series. These cars carried M badging, a unique interior, sport fascias, upgraded wheels and tires, a six-speed manual, 10 extra horses, a higher redline, revised gearing, and a stiffer suspension. There's also the possibility that the first recipient of the new designation could be the diesel variant of the X6 M that's already been teased by the Bavarian automaker.

To read the full release, click past the jump.

Continue reading BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles

BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m performancem performancem3m5x6 mx6mThu, 12 Jan 2012 10:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/20147117/article-detail.xml 20147117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-m-power-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-m-power-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW M5 to get six-speed manual as no-cost option]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2013-bmw-m5-to-get-six-speed-manual-as-no-cost-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2013-bmw-m5-to-get-six-speed-manual-as-no-cost-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/2013-bmw-m5-to-get-six-speed-manual-as-no-cost-option/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Rest easy, die-hard enthusiasts. BMW has officially confirmed that the 2013 M5 sedan will be offered with a do-it-yourself six-speed manual transmission here in the United States. When the car arrives Stateside this summer, it will come standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a row-your-own gearbox as a no-cost option. BMW even goes so far to state that while the manual transmission has one less gear than the DCT, its "ratios have been optimized for acceleration, flexibility and fuel economy." Sounds good to us.

Continue reading 2013 BMW M5 to get six-speed manual as no-cost option

2013 BMW M5 to get six-speed manual as no-cost option originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw m55 seriesbmwm5m5 manualmanual transmissionsix-speed manualMon, 09 Jan 2012 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20143787/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/2013-bmw-m5-to-get-six-speed-manual-as-no-cost-option/20143787/article-detail.xml 20143787 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/13-2012-bmw-m5-fd628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/13-2012-bmw-m5-fd628.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[BMW makes a Christmas card the M way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/bmw-makes-a-christmas-card-the-m-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/bmw-makes-a-christmas-card-the-m-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/bmw-makes-a-christmas-card-the-m-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW M5 Christmas card

'Tis the season for Christmas cards. Standing in the aisles at Hallmark or the local grocery store, spending endless hours searching for just the right bifold slip of paper to express your own vision of the Christmas Spirit for your significant other, your mom, your dad, your brothers and sisters, grandparents and that irritating guy from accounting. And then spending a ludicrous amount on the dozen cards you've collected at the checkout lane while not being completely happy with any of them. You know the drill...

There must be a better way.

May we humbly suggest you try your hand at making a personalized card at home? It doesn't have to be complicated... it's the thought that counts, remember? And no matter how bad you are at drawing or expressing your innermost feelings, it's got to turn out better than the card drawn by a professional illustrator that you'll see in the video after the break.

Okay, perhaps we're not being fair. It's not that the illustrator drew a bad card, really. It's more that the card was more representative of the effects of a professional driver on a racetrack with a 2012 BMW M5. In fact, as far as we're concerned, the card is perfect. Check it out on video after the break.

Continue reading BMW makes a Christmas card the M way

BMW makes a Christmas card the M way originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m5automotive christmas giftsbmwcar christmas cardchristmaschristmas cardfastest christmas cardm5videoWed, 21 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132835/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/21/bmw-makes-a-christmas-card-the-m-way/20132835/article-detail.xml 20132835 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-m5-christmas-card_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-m5-christmas-card.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 takes on S 1000 RR motorbike at Cadwell Park]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/2012-bmw-m5-takes-on-s-1000-rr-motorbike-at-cadwell-park/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/2012-bmw-m5-takes-on-s-1000-rr-motorbike-at-cadwell-park/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/2012-bmw-m5-takes-on-s-1000-rr-motorbike-at-cadwell-park/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW S 1000 RR vs M5

Once again, the car versus bike conundrum takes to the track, this time at the behest of the blokes from Auto Express in the UK. BMW is an obvious choice when it comes time to single out a manufacturer, as it offers machines at the pinnacle of performance on both two wheels and four.

And so we have the S 1000 RR up against the 2012 M5, lapping the famous Cadwell Park in Lincolnshire, England. With 560 horsepower from its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 and a curb weight of about 4,300 pounds, the M5 is a formidable competitor. But it's the bike, with 193 horsepower and a dry weight of just 400 pounds, that takes the power-to-weight crown.

The bike's advantage can be illustrated this way: 3.0 seconds versus 4.4 seconds. Those are the times it takes the S 1000 RR and M5 to hit 60 miles per hour. But that's not the whole story. With twice the number of contact patches, the M5 ought to be able to regain plenty of time in the corners and under braking.

Throw in an extremely slippery track surface - wet with a smattering of dead leaves - and we'd expect an awfully tight race. And, despite the conditions making it a bit unfair for the two-wheeler, that's exactly what we got. Hit the jump to watch it all play out on video. Spoiler alert: The BMW wins.

Continue reading 2012 BMW M5 takes on S 1000 RR motorbike at Cadwell Park

2012 BMW M5 takes on S 1000 RR motorbike at Cadwell Park originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m5bmwcadwell parkcar vs motorcyclem5motorcycle car racemotorcycle versus cars 1000 rrs1000rrvideoFri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20129645/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/16/2012-bmw-m5-takes-on-s-1000-rr-motorbike-at-cadwell-park/20129645/article-detail.xml 20129645 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-bike-car-race_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bmw-bike-car-race.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[Four-door supercars line up, drag out their differences]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/four-door-supercars-line-up-drag-out-their-differences/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/four-door-supercars-line-up-drag-out-their-differences/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/four-door-supercars-line-up-drag-out-their-differences/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

four-door supercar drag race

The latest BMW M5, Jaguar XFR, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and Porsche Panamera S all have lots of things in common. They all have four doors, V8 engines underhood, hail from high-end European automakers known for luxury and performance and can all be had for a wee bit under $100,000.

But which one is fastest?

Well, that depends on how you're planning to measure speed. Do you mean top speed? The time it takes to circle a given race track? Or do you mean in a drag race, the quintessential way to compare a car's ability to accelerate in a straight line?

If that's the case, you'll find your answer in the video after the break. You'll see each of the aforementioned automobiles lined up against one another, racing flat-out over the distance of 1,000 meters.

Who wins? Hit the jump to find out.

Continue reading Four-door supercars line up, drag out their differences

Four-door supercars line up, drag out their differences originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwdrag racee63 amgjaguarm5mercedes-benzpanamerapanamera sporschexfrFri, 09 Dec 2011 19:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20124722/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/09/four-door-supercars-line-up-drag-out-their-differences/20124722/article-detail.xml 20124722 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/4dsc-drag_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/4dsc-drag.jpg <![CDATA[Haven't heard the 2012 BMW M5 yet? Watch this]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/havent-heard-the-2012-bmw-m5-yet-watch-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/havent-heard-the-2012-bmw-m5-yet-watch-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/havent-heard-the-2012-bmw-m5-yet-watch-this/#commentsFiled under: , ,

m5 power slide

The BMW M5 has a long and rich performance history, and that resume only improves for 2012. With a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 pumping out 560 horsepower and an always-willing chassis underpinning it all, we can't wait to get behind the wheel.

Sadly we're a bit shy on the $92,000 needed to buy our own M5, so for now we'll settle for some stunning video and a melodious soundtrack. Hit the jump to hear the racy sounds emanating from the throaty M5, then stay for the sexy slow-motion drifts.

Continue reading Haven't heard the 2012 BMW M5 yet? Watch this

Haven't heard the 2012 BMW M5 yet? Watch this originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20124.4 v8bmwdriftengine soundsm5twin turbovideoSun, 13 Nov 2011 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20104831/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/13/havent-heard-the-2012-bmw-m5-yet-watch-this/20104831/article-detail.xml 20104831 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/bmw-m5-slide_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/bmw-m5-slide.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA report reveals most stolen vehicles, theft rate declining]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/nhtsa-report-reveals-most-stolen-vehicles-theft-rate-declining/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/nhtsa-report-reveals-most-stolen-vehicles-theft-rate-declining/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/nhtsa-report-reveals-most-stolen-vehicles-theft-rate-declining/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi S8

According to Automotive News, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a new report on vehicle theft rates in 2009, and as it turns out, the Audi S8, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and BMW M5 had the highest theft rates of the year. The report specifically focuses on passenger cars and excludes vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs. Technically, only two S8 sedans were reported stolen in 2009, but since Audi only produced 227 units that year and the report uses a number of thefts per vehicles produced ratio, the high performance luxury sedan took the crown. The flip side of that coin, however, is that high-volume models like the Toyota Camry, which have a higher number of thefts, aren't as clearly represented in the results.

The Camry was the best-selling passenger car in 2009, and that crown helped see 781 stolen from their owners. Compare that figure to the second-most stolen vehicle in the report; the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, which had just five units out of 581 stolen.

Overall, NHTSA says that the vehicle theft rate declined by 21.3 percent in 2009 compared to 2008.

NHTSA report reveals most stolen vehicles, theft rate declining originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 most stolen carscamrycar theftm5most stolen carsNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsas8Mon, 07 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20100562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/07/nhtsa-report-reveals-most-stolen-vehicles-theft-rate-declining/20100562/article-detail.xml 20100562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/audi-s8-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/audi-s8-628.jpg <![CDATA[Dinan V10 track engine glows purple, accelerates BMW M5 to plaid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/07/dinan-v10-track-engine-glows-purple-accelerates-bmw-m5-to-plaid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/07/dinan-v10-track-engine-glows-purple-accelerates-bmw-m5-to-plaid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/07/dinan-v10-track-engine-glows-purple-accelerates-bmw-m5-to-plaid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



We love the 5.0-liter V10 from BMW. Besides having an affinity for any engine with more than eight cylinders, the torque-happy five-liter sounds like straight glory and is happy to induce all sorts of tail-wagging fun from the outgoing M5. That doesn't mean there's not room for improvement, however. The minds at Dinan have taken the time to put the engine through the standard performance ringer by boring and stroking the block to a full 5.8-liters, dropping a set of performance cams into the head, bolting on a dry-sump oil system and wrapping the whole project up with a set of racing exhaust headers.

What did all of that effort net? How does 720 naturally-aspirated horsepower at 8,300 rpm and 497 pound-feet of torque grab you? The engine was specifically designed to be used in the Riley Technologies 2011 MKXXV track day car. We just like seeing it punish the engine stand and light its exhaust purple. Hit the jump to watch and hear for yourself.

Continue reading Dinan V10 track engine glows purple, accelerates BMW M5 to plaid

Dinan V10 track engine glows purple, accelerates BMW M5 to plaid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw v-10bmw v10bmw v10 videodinandinan bmw v10dinan bmw v10 videom5riley technologiesv10v10 videovideoFri, 07 Oct 2011 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20076460/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/07/dinan-v10-track-engine-glows-purple-accelerates-bmw-m5-to-plaid/20076460/article-detail.xml 20076460 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/dinan-dyno-628-1319125444_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/dinan-dyno-628-1319125444.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[Subaru Impreza plus BMW V10 engine equals awesome]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Subaru loves boxers. No, not the kind that beat each other into bloody pulps, we're talking about the engine design, which places the cylinders directly across a horizontal plane, almost like they are swinging alternating punches away from the crankshaft - hence, the boxer name.

There are lots of good reasons to love the boxer engine - it allows for a decidedly low center of gravity and is inherently smooth due to its built-in balance - and Subie has certainly done much to advance the configuration since the days of the original Volkswagen Beetle (also boxer-powered). But what if you want your cylinders arranged in a V?

Well then, there's always the ever-popular engine swap. While some would be content to drop in the tried-and-true Chevy V8, not everyone wants Bowtie power in their engine bays. At least one Subaru Impreza owner decided on nothing less than a BMW V10 ripped from under the hood of an M5.

Thankfully, we have video evidence that such a beating-heart transplant can pay big dividends. See for yourself in the video after the break, which was apparently shot just after the conversion was completed and before the engine had been fully tuned. Enjoy!

Continue reading Subaru Impreza plus BMW V10 engine equals awesome

Subaru Impreza plus BMW V10 engine equals awesome originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwimprezam5subaruv10v10 imprezav10 subaruvideowrxwrx stiWed, 07 Sep 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20036946/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/20036946/article-detail.xml 20036946 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/v10-impreza_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/v10-impreza.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.

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