BMW’s M division has marked the 30th anniversary of the M5with the unveiling of most powerful version of the iconic four-door saloon yet.
Set to be produced in a limited run of 300, the BMW M5 '30 Jahre M5' (30 years of the M5) – as the anniversary special is officially named – builds on the performance gains of the recently introduced M5 Competition Pack.
It consequently gets a lightly reworked version of BMW M division’s twin-turbocharged 4.4 V8 direct injection petrol engine delivering an added 25bhp, at 592bhp.
This provides the 1870kg four-door with a power-to-weight ratio that is 14bhp per tonne up on the M5 Competition Pack, at 317bhp per tonne.
The increase in reserves has been achieved through what BMW M division development boss Albert Biermann describes as: “tweaks to the engine management system and an increase in the turbocharger boost pressure”.
Drive is channelled to the rear wheels through a lightly reworked version of the standard M5’s seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, which boasts new software mapping. The result is the fastest series production M5 ever.
BMW claims 0-100kph in just 3.9sec and a top speed that is limited to 320kph in combination with an optional M Driver’s Package.
Underpinning the new M5 30 Jahre is a chassis featuring the same subtle modifications incorporated on the M5 Competition Package, with firmer springs and dampers, a 10mm reduction in ride height and standard 20-inch wheels shod with 265/40 front and 295/40 rear tyres.
Other changes include more direct mapping for the electro-mechanical steering system, a separate control unit for the active M differential for faster reactions and a recalibrated DSC (dynamic stability control).
The M5 30 Jahre is further distinguished from the standard M5 by a matt silver metallic body colour, darkened chrome accents for the kidney grille surround, door handle inserts and tailpipes as well as 30 Jahre badges within the front wings.