14/08/2022
The Roar of the V10: A Defining Era for the BMW M5
The BMW M5, a name synonymous with performance and luxury, has a rich and varied history. Since its inception in 1984, born from the foundations of the 5 Series and powered by an M1 engine, it has undergone significant transformations. We've witnessed its evolution from the smooth inline-six to the muscular V8. However, a particularly iconic period in the M5's lineage was its embrace of a unique V10 engine, a chapter that spanned from 2004 to 2010. This era marked a significant departure and a high-water mark for many enthusiasts.
While the latest generation of the M5, particularly with the CS badge, boasts an astonishing 627 horsepower from its enhanced 4.4-litre V8, pushing the boundaries of what BMW has ever developed for a road car, it's worth reminiscing about the engine that preceded this V8 resurgence. The V10's tenure in the M5 was a bold statement of intent from BMW's M division, showcasing a commitment to exhilarating performance.
The E60 M5: A V10 Masterpiece
The BMW M5 generation that featured the V10 engine is primarily known as the E60 M5 (and its estate counterpart, the E61 M5 Touring). This was the fifth generation of the M5 and it arrived with a spectacular powerplant: the S85 V10 engine. This wasn't just any V10; it was a naturally aspirated, high-revving masterpiece that produced an impressive 500 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The engine's character was defined by its ability to scream towards its redline, delivering an auditory and visceral experience that few cars could match.
The S85 engine was a technological tour de force for its time. It featured a 5.0-litre displacement, a 90-degree V-angle, and a sky-high compression ratio. BMW engineers meticulously crafted this engine to deliver exhilarating performance across the rev range, but it truly came alive when pushed. The inclusion of individual throttle bodies for each cylinder ensured razor-sharp throttle response, a hallmark of true performance engines.
Key Technical Specifications of the S85 V10 Engine:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Code | S85 |
| Configuration | V10 |
| Displacement | 4,999 cc (5.0 litres) |
| Power Output | 500 bhp @ 7,750 rpm |
| Torque | 383 lb-ft @ 6,100 rpm |
| Redline | 8,250 rpm |
| Induction | Naturally Aspirated |
| Throttle System | Ten individual throttle bodies |
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The E60 M5 was not just about its engine; it was a complete package designed for spirited driving. The V10 was mated to a 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), which allowed for rapid gear changes via paddle shifters. While revolutionary for its time, the SMG gearbox was known for its somewhat jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds. This was a trade-off for the rapid fire gear changes it could execute when the car was being driven hard.
The chassis was equally impressive, with BMW's renowned handling characteristics providing a balanced and engaging driving experience. The M5 offered multiple driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the engine's response, gearbox shift speed, and suspension settings to their preference. This adaptability made the M5 a true dual-purpose machine, capable of comfortable cruising and exhilarating track-day performance.
The Legacy of the V10 M5
The period from 2004 to 2010 represents a unique chapter in the BMW M5's history. The S85 V10 engine, despite its complexity and the eventual return to a V8, left an indelible mark. It was a bold engineering statement, a testament to BMW's commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive performance.
While BMW might claim the latest CS V8 is their most powerful engine ever developed, it's important to acknowledge the context. The information provided also touches upon the S70/2 V12 engine used in the McLaren F1. This engine, a collaboration with McLaren, produced even higher horsepower figures, especially in its LM variant. However, it's crucial to distinguish that the S70/2 was not offered in a BMW road car. The S85 V10, on the other hand, was the heart of the M5, a car readily available to the public, making its V10 performance accessible and legendary in its own right.
The S85 V10 engine's character was its ability to deliver a thrilling crescendo of power as the revs climbed. This high-revving nature was a significant departure from the torquey, low-end grunt typically associated with V8 engines. It offered a different flavour of performance, one that rewarded enthusiastic driving and a willingness to explore the upper reaches of the rev counter.
Comparison with Other M5 Generations
To truly appreciate the V10 era, it's helpful to see how it stacks up against other M5 generations:
| Generation | Engine Type | Years of V10 Production | Approximate Power Output |
|---|---|---|---|
| E28 (1st Gen) | Inline-6 | N/A | 286 bhp |
| E34 (2nd Gen) | Inline-6 | N/A | 310-340 bhp |
| E39 (3rd Gen) | V8 | N/A | 394 bhp |
| E60/E61 (4th Gen) | V10 | 2004-2010 | 500 bhp |
| F10/F11 (5th Gen) | V8 Twin-Turbo | N/A | 560 bhp |
| F90 (6th Gen) | V8 Twin-Turbo | N/A | 600-627 bhp (CS) |
As the table illustrates, the V10 M5 represented a significant leap in power and a unique engine configuration for the model. The transition back to a V8 in the F10 generation brought increased torque and efficiency, but for many, the raw, naturally aspirated character of the V10 remains unmatched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When did the BMW M5 first get a V10 engine?
The BMW M5 was equipped with a V10 engine from 2004 to 2010, specifically in the E60 and E61 generations.
Q2: What was the engine code for the V10 in the M5?
The V10 engine used in the E60/E61 M5 was known as the S85.
Q3: How much horsepower did the V10 M5 produce?
The S85 V10 engine produced 500 horsepower.
Q4: Did BMW ever use a V10 in another road car?
No, the S85 V10 engine was exclusively used in the E60/E61 BMW M5 and the related M6 models of that era. While BMW developed the V12 for the McLaren F1, the V10 was a unique M-specific powerplant for their road cars.
Q5: What was the gearbox paired with the V10?
The V10 M5 was primarily offered with a 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), though some markets also saw a limited number of 6-speed manual transmissions offered later in its production run.
Conclusion
The era of the V10 in the BMW M5 was a short but incredibly impactful one. The S85 engine provided an unforgettable driving experience, characterized by its high-revving nature, intoxicating sound, and sheer performance. While the M5 has continued to evolve, embracing even more potent V8 powertrains, the V10 generation remains a cherished memory and a testament to BMW M's pursuit of automotive excellence. For those who experienced it, the roar of the V10 is a sound that will forever echo in the annals of performance car history.
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