We recently attended the UK launch of the sensational new BMW M5 (review will be online very soon!), and one of the overriding conclusions was that the new V10 engine is an absolute gem, giving the car its own unique character. Despite averaging only 15mpg over 2,000 miles of driving we could not help but fall in love with the multi facets of this powerplant. Not only does it push out a faintly ridiculous 507bhp and rev enthusiastically to over 8000rpm, it makes a distinct noise doing it, and yet can waft the car along the motorway at barely a whisper.
It turns out we're not the only journalists to be smitten by this engine. At the 2005 International Engine of the Year awards, BMW dominated the proceedings, with no less than first place in six different categories. The 5-litre V10 had to fight hard for the overall International Engine of the Year, but even then its closest competitor was the fabulous twin sequential turbo diesel BMW engine we drove in
the 535d, with third place going to Toyota's 1.5-litre hybrid power system.
The V10 took victory in the following categories:
- Best New Engine Award
- Best Engine Above 4.0-litre Award
- Best Performance Engine Award
The 3-litre straight six diesel won the Best Engine 2.5-litre to 3-litre Award, with Honda's 3-litre hybrid in second place. The 3.2-litre straight six engine (as fitted to the
BMW M3) took victory in the Best Engine 3.0-litre to 4.0-litre Award, followed by Porsche's new 3.8-litre flat six.
Shane O' Donoghue - 2 Jun 2005
