The M5 that appeared in 2004 was the pinnacle of the 5 series, equipping a V10 engine for the first time in a production model.

The exterior modifications are modest, with only slightly larger fender flares, a special air intake design, and a muffler tip. However the V10 resting under the hood was the most powerful engine in BMW history. The 4999cc, 90 degree bank angle S85B50A model V10 engine produces a maximum output of 500 HP/7750 rpm, with a maximum torque of 383.3 lb-ft/6100 rpm. The redline is at 8250 rpm.

The reason this engine is so out of the ordinary is because this V10 is based on the Formula 1 BMW V10 engine, from before the change in regulations in the 2006 F1 season. The independent throttle valves for every cylinder, the lubrication system that can handle extreme horizontal G's, and various other details back up this fact.

The transmission is a semi-automatic SMG Drive Logic. In comparison to the previous SMG, its shifting time is 20% shorter, and is offered with 11 types of shift programs that allow shifting that suits every possible driving condition. If you so desire, you can even accelerate from 0-62 mph in...