The new BMW M5 (G90) has a lot to prove. It is larger, heavier and packs plug-in-hybrid performance-a further appearance from the lean, common M5-CS (F90) operated with V8, which came before. But in his first serious track outing, the new BMW M5 only did something that no one had expected: he almost matched the lap time of the M5 CS at the Grand Prix Circuit from Nürburgring.
Driven by Autozeitung ‘S test driver Michael Godde, the G90 M5, left the GP course in 1: 37.15 minutes, only 0.03 seconds before the M5 CS 1: 37.12. This is a photo finish and not one that many of a four-door hybrid hybrid tips have seen at 2.4 tons.
It’s difficult – but it’s fast too
Do not make a mistake, the new M5 is still a heavyweight. And that was one of the biggest criticisms since the specifications leaked through. However, the numbers are difficult to ignore: 727 hp and 1000 Nm torque (738 LB-FT), with the help of a plug-in hybrid system. And the chassis seems decisive for the challenge.
Godde praised the balance of the car on the border, which – at least partially – is made possible by Pirelli P Zero R Track tires, which were specially developed for the G90 M5. These tires do serious work and help the car to be in quick corners and brake hard into tight brakes.
But also not pretend that this makes the G90 a spiritual successor to the M5 CS. The car was lighter, raw and lively. In the end it is a CS. But the fact that a full fat hybrid with electrical assistant and a drive train for efficiency can go so much speed with him on foot? That says something – not about technical magic, but about how BMW M redefines the performance in the hybrid age.
Still faster than the AMGs
In order to give the lap time a context: Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E-performance, also a hybrid, requires 1: 40.6 to reach the same circuit. The AMG GT 63 Coupé was closer to 1: 37.8, but still more than half a second behind the M5 G90.
So yes – it is difficult, complicated and a little controversial. But it is also faster than everything in its class. And that could be enough to silence the skeptics. At least falls until the next round.
[Source AutoZeitung via BimmerToday]
