Cool Concept: BMW Concept M5 Preview

IRVINE, CA – What you see in these photos is essentially the 2005 BMW M5. Sure, BMW characterizes this car as a concept that illustrates one path the company could take with the next muscle-bound 5-Series, and says that the car could theoretically be on sale before the end of the 2004 calendar year, but that’s just coy PR-speak for “we’re going to sell this to all of you drooling automotive enthusiasts who’ve been waiting patiently for the next killer Bimmer.” How does a 500-horsepower, five-liter V10 engine grab you? That’s what the 2005 BMW M5 will have under its hood, hooked up to a seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) that will accelerate the sedan from zero to 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds. As with previous M cars, the 2005 BMW M5 will not scream its capability to passers-by. Slight styling modifications will be made through the use of unique front and rear fascias, air dams, side sills, side air vents in the front fenders, and quad M-style exhaust outlets. The M5 also receives an exclusive 19-inch alloy wheel design, and the body sits a bit lower on its suspension than the standard-issue 545i. Tires measure 255/40ZR19 in front and 285/35ZR19 in the rear. Dynamic Stability Control, a limited-slip differential, Servotronic steering, and an upgraded braking system all come standard. Expect a full complement of upscale interior features and trimmings, with multi-adjustable sports seats a part of the mix. Since this is a concept, pricing was not announced at the BMW Concept M5’s debut at the Geneva International Motor Show earlier this month. We’d bet that after taxes and fees, you’re looking to part with something close to $100,000 to park the bad-ass 2005 BMW M5 in your garage.

--Photos courtesy of BMW