BMW 5 Series Review: 2011 Model | 5 Series | Car Buyers Guide

BMW have just released some preview snaps of the new BMW M5 concept and as predicted the highly anticipated motorway muncher has caught the attention of motoring press the world over. It was back in 1985 when BMW first launch the M5, which was based on the E28 5-Series. It was basically a car that was built to satisfy the needs of people who wanted power, size and handling all in one package. The motorsport division developed a 3.6 liter 6 cylinder engine that developed 286 horsepower. This was in turn mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, which gave owners a raucous mechanical feel to the drive. Like the E30 M3 based on the 3-Series the first generation of the M5 BMW had the same boxy stance and distinguished four round lights either side of the kidney grills.

It wasn't until 1989 that BMW decided to give the car a facelift. This version was slightly toned down and more modernised with a curvier design and no boxy arches. A touring version or estate was also added to the range. This version had a new 3.8 litre6 cylinder power plant that produced 340 horsepower. It was a more progressive power also thanks to a new 6 speed gearbox. The third version of the M5 was revealed in 1999 and was called the BMW E39 M5. This was a sleek streamlined machine that packed some serious punch. Now with 395 horsepower a new 5.0 litre V8 engine made serious headlines. Aside from the new engine this particular M5 was not only known for its tyre shredding performance but also its aggressive stance on the road. The rear had four exhausts peering out whilst up front the beautiful angel eye headlights made the car attractive from every angle.

The final change to the M5 before 2012 would be in 2005 when the E60 shape was launched sporting yet another new engine. This car had a massive 5.0 litre V10 engine that produced 507 horsepower. Featuring wing-shaped headlamps this sleek new M5 was another masterpiece although some did criticise the poor fuel economy and aggressive paddle shift gearbox.  With this in mind the new F10 shape M5 will be have to one of BMW’s most advanced cars yet. Performance and handling cannot be compromised but this new machine must comply with new emission standards and be somewhat cheaper to run.

The concept version which is just about to be unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show should be close enough to what the punter will buy baring any small cosmetic changes. In recent years BMW’s concept production cars tend not to be too different to what will be offered. So what do we know so far? Well we have been told the V10 unit has been binned in favour of a new high-revving twinpower turbo V8 that will have more than 500 horsepower. Even with this power BMW are hoping for a 30% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. There will be a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard as well as a stop/ start system. Initial reports are saying you can expect the 0 to 100kmh dash to be completed in around 4.5 seconds and continue to an electronically limited top speed of 248kmh. We have also heard there will not be touring version of this car but I suppose only time will tell. This BMW M5 could be the most ground breaking modern saloon car available but you will have to keep reading Car Buyers Guide to find out more.

Stats Box: BMW M5