BMW M5 2005-2010

BMW M5 2005-2010 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2005-2010 BMW M5 drivetrain system, including the S85 V10 engine, 7-speed SMG III transmission, and rear-wheel drive components.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2005-2010 BMW M5, including key features, measurements, and technical details. The drivetrain is a high-performance system designed to deliver exceptional power and handling, featuring a V10 engine, advanced transmission, and rear-wheel drive configuration.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents. Each section is organized into subsections for detailed technical information.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

5.0 L

Transmission Type

7-Speed SMG

Differential Ratio

3.62:1

Driveshaft Material

Carbon Fiber

Weight Distribution

51% front, 49% rear

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

This section covers the high-performance V10 engine and the advanced 7-speed SMG transmission, including their specifications and integration within the drivetrain system.

S85 V10 Engine

5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine
Maximum power output: 500 hp (373 kW) at 7,750 rpm
Peak torque: 383 lb-ft (520 Nm) at 6,100 rpm
Redline: 8,250 rpm
Compression ratio: 12.0:1

7-Speed SMG Transmission

7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG)
Shift times as low as 65 milliseconds in Sport mode
11 selectable shift programs for varying driving conditions
Integrated launch control system
Gear ratios: 1st - 4.055, 2nd - 2.396, 3rd - 1.582, 4th - 1.192, 5th - 1.000, 6th - 0.872, 7th - 0.759

Note: The SMG transmission is derived from Formula 1 technology, offering rapid gear changes and precise control.

Differential and Driveshaft

This section details the rear differential and driveshaft components, which are critical for power delivery and traction management.

Limited-Slip Differential

Mechanical limited-slip differential with 25% lockup
Optimized for high-performance driving and traction control
Differential ratio: 3.62:1
Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) for enhanced handling

Driveshaft

Carbon fiber-reinforced driveshaft for reduced weight and increased strength
Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 in)
Designed to handle high torque loads up to 520 Nm
Balanced for smooth operation at high RPMs

Note: The carbon fiber driveshaft contributes to the vehicle's overall weight reduction and improved performance.

Suspension and Chassis Integration

This section focuses on the suspension and chassis components that interact with the drivetrain to deliver optimal handling and stability.

Rear Axle and Suspension

Multi-link rear suspension with aluminum components
Rear axle ratio: 3.62:1
Integrated with Electronic Damper Control (EDC) for adjustable ride stiffness
Rear track width: 1,580 mm (62.2 in)

Chassis Reinforcement

Reinforced front and rear subframes for increased rigidity
Aluminum front strut tower brace for improved handling
Weight distribution: 51% front, 49% rear
Chassis tuned for high-speed stability and cornering precision

Note: The reinforced chassis ensures minimal flex, enhancing the drivetrain's responsiveness.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: S85B50

Configuration: V10

Displacement: 4999 cc

Compression Ratio: 12.0:1

Max Power: 507 hp @ 7750 rpm

Max Torque: 383 lb-ft @ 6100 rpm

Redline: 8250 rpm

Fuel System: Electronic Direct Injection

Part Number: 11007833610

Transmission

Type: 7-speed SMG III (Sequential Manual Gearbox)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.35:1
2nd: 2.50:1
3rd: 1.66:1
4th: 1.23:1
5th: 1.00:1
6th: 0.85:1
7th: 0.67:1
Reverse: 3.93:1

Final Drive Ratio: 3.62:1

Shift Time: 80 ms (in S6 mode)

Part Number: 24007580123

Clutch

Type: Dual-mass flywheel with single dry clutch

Diameter: 240 mm

Material: Sintered metal

Part Number: 21207580145

Differential

Type: Limited-slip differential (LSD)

Ratio: 3.62:1

Locking Effect: 25%

Part Number: 33107580167

Driveshaft

Material: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer

Length: 1450 mm

Diameter: 80 mm

Part Number: 26107580189

Axles

Front: Type: Independent double wishbone
Track Width: 1572 mm
Part Number: 31207580201

Rear: Type: Independent multi-link
Track Width: 1582 mm
Part Number: 33307580223

Cooling System

Radiator Type: Dual-pass aluminum

Coolant Capacity: 12.5 liters

Thermostat Opening Temperature: 88°C

Part Number: 17117580245

Lubrication System

Oil Capacity: 8.5 liters

Oil Type: BMW High Performance Synthetic 10W-60

Oil Filter Part Number: 11427580267

Oil Change interval: 15000 miles or 12 months

Exhaust System

Type: Stainless steel dual exhaust

Diameter: 70 mm

Catalytic Converter: Two, one per bank

Part Number: 18107580289

Operational Limits

Max Engine Temp: 120°C

Max Transmission Temp: 140°C

Max Diff Temp: 110°C

Max Oil Pressure: 6.5 bar

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 2005-2010 BMW M5 drivetrain

15000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect transmission fluid level
Check differential fluid level
Inspect driveshaft for wear
Check exhaust system for leaks

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30000

Replace transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect clutch wear
Check axle boots for cracks
Inspect cooling system hoses

Transmission fluid replacement requires specialized equipment

60000

Replace spark plugs
Inspect and replace timing chain if necessary
Check and replace engine mounts if necessary
Inspect and replace suspension components if necessary

Timing chain inspection requires engine disassembly

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of transmission is used in the 2005-2010 BMW M5?

The 2005-2010 BMW M5 is equipped with a 7-speed SMG III (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission. This automated manual transmission features Drivelogic, which allows for customizable shift patterns and speeds, including 11 different shift programs (6 in manual mode and 5 in automatic mode).

What is the torque capacity of the drivetrain in the BMW M5?

The drivetrain in the 2005-2010 BMW M5 is designed to handle up to 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. This is matched to the S85 V10 engine, which produces 373 kW (500 hp) at 7,750 rpm and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque at 6,100 rpm.

What type of differential is used in the BMW M5?

The BMW M5 features a limited-slip differential (LSD) with a 25% locking factor. This differential enhances traction and stability during high-performance driving by distributing torque between the rear wheels based on driving conditions.

What is the recommended service interval for the SMG III transmission fluid?

BMW recommends servicing the SMG III transmission fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or every 4 years, whichever comes first. This includes replacing the transmission fluid and filter to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Can the SMG III transmission be manually shifted without using the paddles?

Yes, the SMG III transmission can be manually shifted using the gear lever. Pushing the lever forward upshifts, while pulling it back downshifts. This provides an alternative to using the steering wheel-mounted paddles.

What is the weight distribution of the BMW M5 drivetrain?

The BMW M5 has a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, achieved through the rear-mounted transmission and the lightweight construction of the S85 V10 engine. This contributes to the vehicle's balanced handling characteristics.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW M5 SMG III Transmission Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the SMG III transmission, including detailed procedures for fluid changes, clutch adjustments, and diagnostic troubleshooting.

S85 V10 Engine Technical Specifications

Coming Soon

Comprehensive technical specifications for the S85 V10 engine, including torque curves, power output, and maintenance requirements.

BMW M5 Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for maintaining the drivetrain components, including the differential, driveshaft, and transmission.

SMG III Drivelogic Programming Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed explanation of the Drivelogic system, including how to customize shift patterns and optimize performance for different driving conditions.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

Facebook Contact

15+ Years

Experience

500+ Guides

Guides

50+ Makes

Vehicles

1000+ Solutions

Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

ASE Master Technician Certification
Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.

Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.

Intellectual Property

All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.