BMW M5 2011-2017

BMW M5 2011-2017 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2011-2017 BMW M5 drivetrain system. Explore the S63B44T0 engine, M DCT transmission, Active M Differential, and drivetrain control systems. Ideal for technicians, enthusiasts, and BMW M5 owners.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2011-2017 BMW M5, including key features, measurements, and technical details

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 sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each major section is labeled with a title and includes subsections for detailed information.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

4.4 L

Transmission Type

7-speed M DCT

Driveshaft Material

Carbon Fiber

Differential Type

Active M Differential

Top Speed

155 mph (limited)

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and technical data

Engine Specifications

4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 engine
Maximum power output: 560 hp at 6000-7000 rpm
Maximum torque: 502 lb-ft at 1500-5750 rpm
Compression ratio: 10.0:1
Direct fuel injection system

Transmission System

7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT)
Drivelogic system with 11 shift programs
Gear ratios: 1st - 4.806, 2nd - 2.593, 3rd - 1.701, 4th - 1.277, 5th - 1.000, 6th - 0.844, 7th - 0.671
Final drive ratio: 3.154
Launch Control feature for optimized acceleration

Note: The M DCT transmission allows for both automatic and manual shifting modes.

Driveshaft and Differential

Information about the driveshaft and differential components, including technical specifications

Driveshaft

Two-piece carbon fiber driveshaft
Length: 1,250 mm
Diameter: 90 mm
Designed to minimize rotational mass and improve efficiency
Balanced for high-speed operation

Differential

Active M Differential with electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential
Differential lock: 0-100% variable
Torque distribution: Fully variable between rear wheels
Integrated into the rear axle subframe
Weight: 22.5 kg

Note: The Active M Differential enhances traction and stability during cornering.

Axles and Suspension

Technical details about the axles and suspension system, including measurements and specifications

Front Axle

Double-wishbone front axle with forged aluminum components
Track width: 1,625 mm
Wheelbase: 2,961 mm
Steering ratio: 13.7:1
Electromechanical power steering system

Rear Axle

Integral V multi-link rear axle with forged aluminum components
Track width: 1,610 mm
Wheelbase: 2,961 mm
Rear axle subframe with rubber mounts for vibration damping
Weight: 48.5 kg

Note: The rear axle design ensures optimal handling and ride comfort.

Performance and Efficiency

Performance metrics and efficiency details for the drivetrain system

Acceleration and Top Speed

0-60 mph acceleration: 4.2 seconds
Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited), optional increase to 190 mph with M Driver's Package
Quarter-mile time: 12.4 seconds
Braking distance (60-0 mph): 110 feet
Drag coefficient: 0.33

Fuel Efficiency

City fuel economy: 14 mpg
Highway fuel economy: 20 mpg
Combined fuel economy: 16 mpg
Fuel tank capacity: 21.1 gallons
CO2 emissions: 349 g/km

Note: Fuel efficiency figures are based on EPA testing standards.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: S63B44T0

Configuration: V8

Displacement: 4395 cc

Compression Ratio: 10.0:1

Max Power: 560 hp @ 6000-7000 rpm

Max Torque: 502 lb-ft @ 1500-5750 rpm

Redline: 7200 rpm

Transmission

Type: 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.806:1
2nd: 2.593:1
3rd: 1.701:1
4th: 1.277:1
5th: 1.000:1
6th: 0.844:1
7th: 0.671:1
Reverse: 3.935:1

Final Drive Ratio: 3.154:1

Part Number: 28107846987

Driveshaft

Material: Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP)

Length: 1.8 m

Diameter: 80 mm

Part Number: 26107585234

Differential

Type: Active M Differential

Lock Ratio: 0-100%

Cooling: Electronically controlled oil pump

Part Number: 33107585234

Axles

Front: Type: Double wishbone
Track Width: 1620 mm
Part Number: 31207585234

Rear: Type: Integral V multi-link
Track Width: 1600 mm
Part Number: 33207585234

Clutch

Type: Dual wet clutch

Diameter: 240 mm

Material: Sintered metal

Part Number: 21207585234

Transfer Case

Type: Not applicable (Rear-wheel drive)

Note: No transfer case as the vehicle is rear-wheel drive only

Fuel System

Type: Direct injection

Fuel Pressure: 200 bar

injector Part Number: 13537585234

Fuel Pump Part Number: 16147585234

Cooling System

Radiator Type: Dual-pass aluminum

Coolant Capacity: 12.5 liters

Thermostat Opening Temperature: 97°C

Part Number: 17117585234

Lubrication System

Oil Capacity: 9.5 liters

Oil Type: BMW TwinPower Turbo 10W-60

Oil Filter Part Number: 11427585234

Oil Change interval: 10,000 miles or 12 months

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 2011-2017 BMW M5 drivetrain

10,000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect brake system
Check tire pressure and condition
Inspect cooling system
Check transmission fluid level

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30,000

Replace air filter
Inspect driveshaft and differential
Check clutch operation
Inspect fuel system components

Perform additional checks if vehicle is driven under severe conditions

60,000

Replace spark plugs
Inspect and replace coolant if necessary
Check and adjust valve clearance
Inspect exhaust system

Follow BMW-recommended procedures for all maintenance tasks

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2011-2017 BMW M5 use?

The 2011-2017 BMW M5 features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system with an optional M xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system introduced in later models. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) or an 8-speed automatic transmission, depending on the model year and configuration.

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

The drivetrain in the 2011-2017 BMW M5 is designed to handle up to 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque, which is the maximum torque output of the 4.4-liter S63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The drivetrain components, including the driveshaft and differential, are engineered to withstand high-performance demands.

How does the Active M Differential work in the BMW M5?

The Active M Differential is an electronically controlled limited-slip differential that optimizes traction and stability. It uses wheel speed sensors and vehicle dynamics data to distribute torque between the rear wheels, improving cornering performance and reducing wheel spin during acceleration.

What is the recommended service interval for the drivetrain components?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential, every 30,000 miles or 48,000 kilometers. Fluid changes for the differential and transmission should be performed every 60,000 miles or 96,000 kilometers, or as specified in the owner's manual.

Can the drivetrain handle aftermarket performance upgrades?

While the drivetrain is robust, significant aftermarket upgrades, such as increased horsepower or torque, may exceed its design limits. Upgrading to reinforced components, such as a high-performance clutch or differential, is recommended for vehicles with extensive modifications to ensure reliability and safety.

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 Drivetrain Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation detailing the drivetrain components, specifications, and maintenance procedures for the 2011-2017 BMW M5.

Active M Differential Explained

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on the functionality and benefits of the Active M Differential system in the BMW M5.

Drivetrain Maintenance Checklist

Coming Soon

A comprehensive checklist for maintaining and inspecting the drivetrain components of the BMW M5 to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Performance Upgrades for BMW M5 Drivetrain

Coming Soon

Information on recommended performance upgrades and compatible aftermarket parts for the BMW M5 drivetrain.

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