The BMW M5 (E60 LCI), specifically the 5.0-liter V10 variant produced from March 2007 to July 2010, represents a high-water mark in BMW’s performance sedan lineage. This facelifted version of the E60 M5, often referred to as the “LCI” (Life Cycle Impulse), addressed some criticisms of the original E60 while retaining the core appeal of its naturally aspirated V10 engine and driver-focused dynamics. Positioned as the ultimate expression of the 5 Series, the LCI M5 competed directly with high-performance sedans like the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and the Cadillac CTS-V. It was, and remains, a significant vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a unique blend of luxury, performance, and technological innovation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M5 |
| Generation | M5 (E60 LCI, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V10 (507 Hp) SMG |
| Start of production | March, 2007 |
| End of production | July, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 21.7 l/100 km (10.8 US mpg, 13 UK mpg, 4.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 344 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 284.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 292.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 507 Hp @ 7750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 101.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 520 Nm @ 6100 rpm (383.53 lb.-ft. @ 6100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 8250 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S85B50A |
| Engine displacement | 4999 cm3 (305.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 10 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.2 mm (2.96 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Double VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt | 8.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15 l (15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4855 mm (191.14 in.) |
| Width | 1846 mm (72.68 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2037 mm (80.2 in.) |
| Height | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2889 mm (113.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1566 mm (61.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 857 mm (33.74 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1109 mm (43.66 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission SMG |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 374×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 370×24 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/40 R19 Rear wheel tires: 285/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The E60 M5 LCI, produced between 2007 and 2010, built upon the foundation laid by the original E60 M5 (2005-2007). The LCI brought subtle but significant cosmetic updates, including revised headlights and taillights, along with improvements to the interior and engine management systems. However, the heart of the car remained the S85B50A 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, a powerplant derived from BMW’s Formula One program. This engine, paired with a 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) transmission, delivered exhilarating performance and a unique driving experience. The LCI M5 was positioned as the top-tier performance variant of the 5 Series, offering a blend of luxury, technology, and raw power.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The S85B50A V10 engine is a masterpiece of engineering. Its 5.0-liter displacement is achieved through a 87mm bore and 75.2mm stroke. The engine features individual throttle bodies for each cylinder, contributing to its sharp throttle response. It utilizes double VANOS (variable valve timing) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, optimizing performance across the rev range. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine’s high 8250 rpm redline and 12:1 compression ratio emphasize its performance-oriented design. The 7-speed SMG transmission, while offering quick shifts, was a point of contention for some drivers due to its sometimes jerky low-speed behavior. It operates with automated clutch control and allows for both automatic and manual shifting via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The 507 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque delivered by the S85B50A engine translate into breathtaking acceleration. The LCI M5 could sprint from 0-60 mph in around 4.5 seconds and reach a electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The SMG transmission, while not as smooth as a traditional automatic, provides incredibly fast gear changes, particularly when driven aggressively. The car’s handling is precise and balanced, thanks to its sophisticated suspension system and rear-wheel drive layout. Compared to lower-powered 5 Series models, the M5 LCI offers a significantly more visceral and engaging driving experience. While the SMG transmission could be challenging in stop-and-go traffic, it became a defining characteristic of the car, separating it from more conventional luxury sedans.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M5 LCI came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including Merino leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated front seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, upgraded audio systems, and a driver assistance package. The LCI also saw improvements to the iDrive system, making it more user-friendly. The interior design was largely carried over from the pre-LCI model, but with subtle refinements to materials and finishes. The overall ambiance was one of sporty luxury, befitting the car’s high-performance status.
Chassis & Braking
The E60 M5 LCI features a robust chassis designed to handle the immense power of the V10 engine. It utilizes a spring strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, both with transverse stabilizers to minimize body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors and calipers compared to standard 5 Series models. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) is standard. The car’s suspension tuning is firm but not overly harsh, providing a good balance between performance and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E60 M5 LCI was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its exhilarating performance, sophisticated technology, and luxurious interior. However, the SMG transmission was a common point of criticism, with some reviewers finding it to be jerky and unpredictable. Compared to other trims in the 5 Series lineup, the M5 LCI was in a different league in terms of performance and price. It offered a significantly more engaging driving experience than the 535i or 550i models, but at a substantial premium. Fuel economy was predictably poor, reflecting the car’s high-performance nature.
Legacy
The BMW M5 (E60 LCI) remains a highly sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts. The S85B50A V10 engine is considered a landmark achievement in automotive engineering, and the car’s unique driving experience continues to captivate drivers today. While the SMG transmission can require specialized maintenance, the engine itself is generally considered reliable if properly maintained. On the used car market, the E60 M5 LCI commands a premium price, reflecting its rarity, performance, and iconic status. It represents a unique chapter in BMW’s history, a time when the company was willing to push the boundaries of performance and technology in a luxury sedan.
