
For the most part - and I admit that there are exceptions - the Japanese and American car manufacturers deck out their performance cars with scoops, wings, spoilers, graphics, etc. They scream "I'M SPECIAL", even if sometimes they're not. That's not the way the Germans do things. It's performance that matters. Germans do a few subtle changes to the body, but let the performance do the real talking. Personally, I like that.
If an M3 Coupe doesn't look "special" enough to some people, then the almost invisible 4 door E34 M5 will not impress them either. It impresses me, though. A lot.

That 311HP hand-built 6 cylinder engine gave the M5 a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 MPH.
A car that fast needs a suspension that can match the power. The M5 suspension, compared to the standard E34 suspension, has a 20mm reduction in ride height, 25 percent firmer spring rates, firmer shock valving and thicker antiroll bars.
As for the body, the only real differences (besides badging) between the standard E34 and the M are the lower body molding and a slightly different front airdam and rear "air diffuser". Subtle, yet very cool.

In bright red, this car is less subtle than most M5s. (Only 200 or so M5s were painted red.) Still, it doesn't scream "I'M SPECIAL". My friend would most likely not be impressed by this car. But, it impresses those of us who like driving and that's really all that counts.
Located in Paterson, NJ, click here to see the eBay listing.
4 comments:
Late 80's autocrossing in Pittsburgh. An older - weathier guy had one of these. It was amazing to see a car this large move so well. And the sounds as it hit the rev limiter...aahh.
What a nice car.
Gone are the days when subtle meant having the number "6.9" tacked onto the lip of your trunk.
Really nice car.
Gone are the days when subtle meant having the number "6.9" on the trunk lip of your Benz.
I bought this exact car and had it transported from patterson (seriously). Pretty nice ride... I get more comments on it than any other car I've ever owned (I've had a few "less than subtle" cars too). Paint wasn't as flawless as the pictures indicated... but I love it.
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