E28 M5
The first true M5 was born in 1984, an E28. It had the same displacement as the E12 535i, but put out 286 horsepower. This car was made unitl 1988, when the new 5 replacement debuted. The engine was the S38, or possibly an M88/3.
E34 M5
The E-34 5 series began production in 1988, and the M5 came out in 1991 for Americans. A new S38 was the powerplant. At 3.5 liters and 315 hp (Euro I believe), this was one fast sedan. It lasted in America until 1995. Then, the next best thing was the 540i Sport, with the M62 V8 and a six speed transmission. This photo is of one of the last Euorpean E34 M5s, which lasted a few years longer than the Americans got them. The wheels are M-Style II, whic were also worn on the 540i Sport and 850CSi.
E-39
By far the most powreful, this should also prove to be the most anticipated and wanted M5. Displacing 4.9 (or 5.0, depending on which way you round) liters and 400 horsepower, this may also be the fastest BMW sedan ever. There is no engine designation yet. The M5 is already on the streets of Europe, and will cross the pond sometime this fall. Start saving. First M5 spottings
