BMW Concept M5

Arguably one of the most anticipated cars of 2004, BMW has finally taken the wraps off its first conceptual iteration of the new M5.

The new look M5 is based on the current BMW 5-Series model and, in addition to a stonking 5.0-litre V10 and a clever new 7-speed transmission, the car gets an aerodynamic bodykit to differentiate it from lesser models and provide improved downforce.

The BMW Concept M5 offers a clear indication of what the production model will look like, expected on sale in Europe late this year and in Australia in early 2005.

While the design isn't final, insiders say there won't be dramatic changes to the car, though rumours suggest a bonnet scoop or cut-out may be added to the production model.

As it stands, the Concept M5 gets subtle enhancements over the standard E60 sedan, including modified front and rear air dams and side skirts, lower ride height, side air vents and the now trademark BMW 'M' quad-pack chrome exhaust pipes.

The Concept M5 runs on unique 19-inch light alloy wheels, 9.5-inches wide at the rear and shod with 285/35 ZR19 tyres. The front wheels are 8.5-inches wide with 255/40 ZR19 tyres and are controlled by a new Servotronic steering system.

Boasting Formula 1 technology, the new car, as expressed by the Concept M5, is the first M5 to have a completely bespoke engine, an all-new 5.0-litre V10 designed to generate 368kW (500bhp) and 500Nm of torque.

While BMW is remaining tight-lipped on specific revolutions per minute, rumours suggest the engine will rev beyond 8000rpm, which would further highlight it's F1 origins.

Beyond exact statistics, BMW has come clean on the M5 Concept's power figures, stating that the quick-spinning 5.0-litre mill will help the vehicle to a 0-100km/h sprint in under 5.0 seconds.

In addition, BMW engineers reckon it'll take just 13.0 seconds to reach 200km/h, which could well make it the world's fastest four door saloon/sedan.

Unlike many Mercedes AMG models, the fourth generation BMW to display the M5 badge forgoes forced induction, instead getting its performance via naturally aspirated means.

The engine features high-pressure VANOS, individual throttle butterflies and electronic engine controls designed with knowledge gleaned from years of Formula 1 engine development.

According to BMW reps, the new V10 will "effortlessly deliver seemingly inexhaustible power with supreme driving comfort". Cool.

In addition to the manic V10 engine, the Concept M5, and indeed its road-going sibling will introduce the world's first 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox.

It allows for rapid shifting and ultimate driver control, again thanks to a Formula 1 derived electronics technology.

Using clutches, instead of a torque convertor, the SMG shifts gears as quickly - if not quicker - than a standard manual transmission.

BMW's M division wanted the M5 to handle crisply around corners, as well as go fast down the straights, and its engineers were able to save a substantial amount of weight, in turn improving the Concept M5's power-to-weight ratio as well.

Braking has been suitably beefed up to cope with the M5's added performance, but no word yet on whether ceramic discs will be used.

The latest generation of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and the adoption of a variable M-type limited slip differential, as seen in the E46 M3 Coupe, enhance the M5's driving dynamics, while providing the driver with a good feel of what the rear wheels are doing.

Looking back, the E28 BMW M5 six-cylinder created the 'hyperformance' luxury sedan class in 1982, and since that time, three generations of M5s have generated ever-increasing levels of desire and enjoyment for 35,000 buyers.

Initially M5 cars were hand-built in Munich, but later were built on the assembly line at Dingolfing.

BMW seems to have taken a subtle-and-sporty approach to the new M5, and it works a treat. While Chris Bangle's original 5-Series design was thoroughly different, the curvy, muscular take on the go-fast model is pleasing.

Though we'll still have to wait on official figures for engine specifics, such as where peak torque kicks in (we guess 5500rpm), what we've seen of the new M5 thus far is extremely promising.

Details of final production specification for international markets are still to be determined and the Australian market ETA, pricing and specification will follow soon after.