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7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox
Initially, the M5 is offered exclusively with this unique SMG transmission,
which employs Formula 1 racing technology to help drivers extract the M5's full
performance potential. For M5 customers who prefer a conventional manual
transmission, a 6-speed will be offered beginning in the fall of 2006.
Wheels and Tires: Ultimate
Grip and Style
In its wheel-tire equipment, the M5 takes the 5 Series platform to its ultimate
level of performance and style. The wheels, in a relatively open, discreetly
aggressive M Double Spoke design, are sized 19 x 8.5 front/19 x 9.5 rear and
carry 255/40 ZR19 front, 285/35
ZR19 rear, high-performance tires specially developed for the M5.
These are not run-flat tires; there are no run-flats yet that meet BMW M
parameters of speed rating and weight. The M5 exhaust system, with its four main
mufflers clustered at the rear of the vehicle, does not provide space for a
spare tire, so the M5 is equipped with the M Mobility System.
If a tire is punctured - a rare event in any case - the M Mobility System
provides for temporary repair and inflation of the damaged tire. Should a tire
ever be completely destroyed, BMW Roadside Assistance is available for the life
of the vehicle.
Abundant Luxury Accompanies
Definitive Performance
Imagine the sportiest and most luxurious 5 Series interior. Then imagine it even
sportier, more luxurious, and fitted out to enhance enjoyment of BMW M
performance. That would be the M5 interior - upholstered in Merino, BMW's finest
leather grade; trimmed in brushed aluminum or a choice of two elegant woods;
offering a unique selection of upholstery colors; providing special
instrumentation and displays; and offering options such as the M Head-up Display
and M Multi-function sport seats with Active Backrest Width.
Special M Instrumentation
Both main instruments have unique fulltime-illuminated white scales and red
pointers. The speedometer scale reads to 200 mph, the tachometer to 9000 rpm. A
variable tachometer warning segment in yellow, with red normally beginning at
8250 rpm, is included. Via a rotating disc behind the instrument face, this
segment can move downward to as low as 4500 rpm with a cold engine, then
gradually rise to the full 8250 rpm as the engine warms. On the speedometer, a
similar disc carries a pointer indicating the set speed for the cruise control.
With such a high-performance engine, oil temperature is a critical factor - and
the one to which the variable rpm limit is calibrated. Accordingly, an
oil-temperature gauge is set into the lower portion of the tachometer. As a
further distinction of M5 instrumentation, via the On-board Computer the driver
can select oil temperature (instead of average speed) to be shown in the
instrument-cluster display.
M Sport Seats
BMW M sport seats embody comprehensive design and features for supporting the
driver in sporting driving.
The standard M front sport seats include adjustable backrest width, which
enhances their adaptability to various human statures. Along with the steering
wheel and exterior mirrors, each driver's preferred adjustments are stored in
Vehicle & Key Memory and are reset to those adjustments when that driver unlocks
the vehicle with his or her remote.
BMW M5: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications
