The best three (3) modification for BMW V10 M5 E60.
There are list of modifications for this “beast”, the BMW M5 E60. In anyway we’ll dive in into three (3) best modifications mostly sought by M5 E60 enthusiasts.
Before that, let we flash back a bit on the history and background of this M5 E60, the “beast”.
The M5 model of the E60 generation was introduced in 2005 and produced in BMW sedan and wagon body styles.
The E60 M5 is powered by the BMW S85 V10 engine, which produces a significant 373 kW (500 hp) at 7,750 rpm, 520 N⋅m (384 lb⋅ft) at 6,100 rpm and has a redline of 8,250 rpm.
This incredible horsepower score had set an entirely new standard for performance car at that time. The BMW M5 E60 indeed was the first Production Sedan that feature a V10 engine.
The mighty V10 engine under M5 E60 hood was a true testimony of the most powerful engine to ever feature in a sedan. Definitely it has become an incredible standout for M5 E60 itself.
A sedan that able to produce as high as 500 horsepower with 385 lb. ft torque, there truly wasn’t anything else like that in the market at that time.
The BMW-Sauber was really competitive and successful during the early 2000s. With BMW heavily involved in Formula 1 at that time, there road cars reap the benefits and be inspired by their successful racing team at the prestigious pinnacle of motorsport.
These are the most notable features and information about M5 E60.
- Rated at 500 horsepower (unlocked in M-Mode), it was the most powerful engine ever fitted into a sedan.
- The S85 V10 engine was specifically designed for this car.
- It was heavily inspired by Formula 1 engines of its time, being designed to maintain high revs with a maximum of 8,8250 RPM.
- 11 gearbox modes
- Two engine power modes
- Three throttle response modes
- Three suspension settings
- Two steering modes
- Three DSC positions
Year 2004 was one of the standout years of the sport's V10 era, which lasted from 1998 to 2005 with BMW being a team that produced one of the best V10 engines out of them all.
These engines were designed to be high-revving and was applied to the S85 V10 that was introduced with the M5 E60, allowing the car to reach a maximum of 8,250 RPM.
A unique Double VANOS variable valve system was also introduced for the 2004 M5 E60 to further assist the engine in achieving its impressive numbers.
The BMW M5 E60 was one of the two BMWs that feature a V10 engine. The V10 engine has only been used in BMW's fleet twice.
The M5 E60 was the first BMW car to feature a V10, followed two years later by the BMW E63. The major difference between these two cars is the M6 is a two-door coupe instead of a sedan, but both cars share the same S85 V10 engine under the hood.
The BMW E60 M5 with the legendary S85 V10 engine is already an engineering marvel, but with a few key modifications, you can enhance its performance, responsiveness and overall driving experience.
**Here are the three (3) best modifications for the E60 M5:
1. Exhaust System Upgrade
Why? The S85 V10 has one of the best sounding engines ever made, but an aftermarket exhaust system can unlock its full potential.
A freer-flowing system reduces back pressure, improves power, and enhances the aggressive sound.
• Recommended Modifications:
• Performance headers (e.g., Supersprint or Evolve Automotive)
• High-flow catalytic converters or a catless setup
• Lightweight, stainless steel or titanium cat-back exhaust system
• Benefits: Gains of 10–25 horsepower, sharper throttle response, and an intoxicating V10 roar.
2. ECU Tune or DME Remap
Why? The stock S85 ECU is somewhat conservative. A remap can optimize the fuel and ignition timing, adjust the throttle sensitivity and remove the top speed limiter.
• Recommended Providers:
• Evolve Automotive
• Dinan Performance
• ESS Tuning
• Benefits: Gains of 20–40 horsepower, improved midrange torque, and smoother power delivery.
3. Rod Bearings Upgrade
Why? The S85 V10 is notorious for premature rod bearing wear, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
Replacing the rod bearings with high-quality aftermarket options is critical for reliability, especially in higher-mileage engines.
• Recommended Brands:
• BE Bearings with ARP bolts
• WPC-treated or coated bearings for longevity
• Benefits: Extends the engine’s lifespan, reduces risk of failure, and provides peace of mind for spirited driving.
Optional Bonus: Throttle Bodies or ITBs Upgrade
For enthusiasts chasing ultimate performance, upgrading or refining the individual throttle bodies (ITBs) can maximize airflow and responsiveness, though this is more complex and costly.
These modifications provide a perfect balance of performance, reliability and ppdriving engagement for the BMW E60 M5.
- The M5 E60 is the only M5 to ever feature a V10 engine.
- The M6 E63 also featured a V10, using the same S85 engine as the M5.
- Despite using the same engine, the M6 E63 manages to produce seven more horsepower than the M5, due to being a coupe rather than a sedan.
- The M5 is still considered the most iconic out of the two, being the first to use the S85 V10.
The utilization of Cutting-Edge Formula 1- Inspired Technology from its time such as the V10 engine makes it more prominent in this scene that surpassed others.
The transmission also received similar treatment, which is without a doubt one of the most impressive features of this car. The Paddle-Shift sequential manual transmission was rare and not many car has that cutting-edge mechanics F1 inspired.
