Unleashing the Legend: BMW M5 E28 Takes on the Autobahn
It's hard to believe that 40 years have passed since BMW unveiled the original M5. Back in the 1980s, the M cars were a testament to the company’s craftsmanship, often hand-built with precision that is rare in modern automobiles. Recently, an exhilarating onboard video featured a pristine example of the flagship E28 model, illustrating not just its power but the sheer joy of driving. On a stretch of Germany’s famous Autobahn, this classic sports sedan was given the opportunity to stretch its legs, reaching impressive speeds without any constraints of speed limits.
What's particularly special about the M5 E28 is its market-specific design. The version featured in the video was designed for the European market and boasts a more powerful engine compared to its American counterpart. The heart of this magnificent vehicle is the inline-six naturally aspirated M88/3 engine, producing an impressive 282 horsepower in Europe, versus the 256 horsepower found in the S38B35 engine favored in the U.S. With a substantial torque of 340 Nm (250 lb-ft), the Euro-spec M5 remarkably accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just six and a half seconds, a feat that is impressive even by today's standards.
BMW M5 E28 on the Autobahn" />
In terms of performance, the M5 E28 can reach a thrilling top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h). However, during the Autobahn drive, the BMW did not quite hit its maximum, topping out at nearly 143 mph (230 km/h). Nonetheless, considering its age and the advancements in car technology over the decades, achieving such speeds is a remarkable accomplishment. BMW’s commitment to maintaining the M5 E28 in pristine condition is evident, as it appears as if it just rolled off the assembly line despite being manufactured in the mid-1980s.
The allure of the M5 E28 extends beyond performance metrics. Its engine, a derivative of the legendary M1 supercar, combined with its limited production run of just 2,241 units, makes it a highly sought-after classic. BMW crafted this car at a time when automotive design was revered, producing vehicles that offered a real connection between the driver and the machine. The M5 E28 is stripped of modern distractions, featuring a driver-oriented cockpit that beckons you to hit the road and relish every moment of the drive.
Reflecting on the legacy of the M5 series, the E28 stands as a reminder of BMW's illustrious history and the extraordinary cars that followed. Fast-forward to 2024, and while the new M5 G90 is a technological marvel, it’s notably larger and weighs more than its predecessors. However, there remains a silver lining for enthusiasts, as you can still select a rear-wheel drive mode in the latest model. Furthermore, the recent introduction of the M5 Touring has rekindled excitement among fans, suggesting that while some elements have changed, BMW still prioritizes a rewarding driving experience.
Although the manual transmission has all but disappeared from the M5 lineup, it still thrives in models like the M3, M2, and M4. For purists, the presence of three-pedal configurations in these cars offers a nostalgic connection to the past, ensuring the spirit of driving remains alive. It’s this nostalgic sentiment, paired with the excitement of the Autobahn video, that highlights the enduring passion for BMW performance sedans that continue to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
Whether you’re an avid collector or simply a fan of driving, the BMW M5 E28 remains a symbol of automotive excellence. Its mix of history, performance, and design ensures that it occupies a special place in the pantheon of luxury vehicles, forever linked to the joy of driving on the open road.
Source: AutoTopNL / YouTube