BMW M5 Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1985–1987) — First Generation
The first-generation BMW M5 turned a quiet executive sedan into a genuine performance car, hiding serious hardware beneath conservative bodywork and offering everyday usability alongside the pace of dedicated sports machines.
The BMW M5 engine in the 3.5 MT is a naturally aspirated gasoline six, an approach that rewards revs rather than low-speed shove. Its powertrain sends drive rearward through a manual gearbox, so you control the shifts and the drivetrain balance feels traditional and predictable.