A whole bunch of BMW models and restyled modifications of the fifth series in recent years has been updated with the help of M Performance packages. The Bavarian manufacturer has long indulged its fans with interesting variations of successful sports cars, but in this case, the transformation got a special look even against the background of an established strategy. The BMW 540i M Performance update has a wide coverage - this is far from a cosmetic correction, which is often used even by large manufacturers to give a brutal style, but no more. The package affected the parameters of the power plant, which will be of interest to real sports enthusiasts.
Series Overview
The peak of popularity of the BMW 5 Series came in the second half of the 90s, when the morally obsolete body of the E34 was replaced by a discreet E39 design, which motorists liked by their harmonious design and practicality. In addition, the novelty has made a significant step forward due to the stylistically advanced interior and optional additions. The BMW 540i E39 stayed on the assembly line until 2004, when the time was ripe for a significant revision in the exterior design. The search for new solutions lasted almost 15 years, and the generation of F10 became the most noticeable offer of the Bavarians during this time.
The seventh generation of the series with the G30 index was created with the expectation of fundamentally different demands both in design and ergonomics, and in technology. The business sedan performed by the BMW 540i G30 looks solid and presentable, and also demonstrates modern control systems, communication support and some aerodynamic innovations. Even if we compare the new product with the closest relative of F10, then the difference will be traced in almost every parameter. Now it is worth considering the characteristics of the most outstanding representatives of the series.
Features E39
By the standards of the life of automotive models, this performance existed for a rather long period, overgrown with new versions and trim levels. Today, the BMW 540i E39, the technical characteristics of which are presented below, attracts motorists for the most part with its practicality and recognizable bright exterior from the 90s:
- The number of doors is 4.
- The type of power unit is V8.
- The volume of the engine is 4398 cm3.
- Power potential - 286 liters. from.
- The speed limit is 250 km / h.
- Transmission - mechanics and automation in 5 steps.
- Body dimensions - 4775x1435x1800 mm.
- Ground clearance - 120 mm.
- Gross weight - 2170 kg.
- The volume of the luggage compartment is 460 liters.
Characteristics of the basic version of the G30
Even before the revision of the BMW sports studio, the model gave a certain image of a sporty style, but it was overloaded with requirements for a premium sedan. Nevertheless, the traditional version, on the basis of which the M Performance package was implemented, had some claims to power returns at the level of sports cars. Again, this applies to the sedan category, which primarily refers to the BMW 540i G30. Technical characteristics of the platform, which was further developed by sports tuning, can be represented as follows:
- Engine displacement - 1998 cm cubic
- Power potential - 252 liters. from.
- Acceleration to "hundreds" - 420 Nm.
- Consumption - an average of 7.4 liters per 100 km.
- Dimensions - 4936x1868x1466 mm.
- Ground clearance - 144 mm.
- Trunk capacity - 530 liters.
Modification Touring
Between the development of the central generations, continuing the spirit of the 5 Series sedans, the Bavarian manufacturer has repeatedly turned to third-party modifications. In this regard, it is possible to note electrified versions, however, a modification in the station wagon body became really massive. The car received the Touring prefix and was developed on the E39 platform. It must be said right away that this option, perhaps, to the greatest extent can be considered sports, if we consider it within the framework of the standard line. Later, along with the flagship representatives of the BMW 540i series, Touring also received elements from the M-package. To date, the wagon is equipped with a 4.4-liter V8, providing 300 liters. from. As a gearbox, Getrag mechanics are used in 6 steps. As many experts note, this modification implements one of the best bundles of manual transmission and engine, which led to pretty good handling.
M Performance Engine Features
At the dawn of the formation of the series, the 540 index meant the cars belonged to a family equipped with V8 engines. For the most part, machines have retained this principle of identification, albeit with significant reservations. In particular, modern representatives of the 540i are provided by the V6, however, supplemented by turbocharging. It is these versions that make up the gasoline range of the M Performance package, which extends to the G30. This model received an aggregate of 340 liters. sec., which allowed her to accelerate to "hundreds" in just 5.1 seconds. According to some estimates, this figure exceeds even the records of diesel engines with all-wheel drive xDrive. Those who wish to get even more effect from the gasoline engine are also advised to purchase the all-wheel drive version of the BMW 540i. The torque characteristics are also at the level of 450 Nm, which, however, is 170 Nm less than the diesel version 530d. But in traction, it is logical that a heavy fuel-powered unit will show a more attractive indicator. It would seem that excess torque for the average user is useless. Especially considering the power additive from the M-package. But the difference will be noticeable when evaluating the quality of the gearbox in conjunction with a turbo engine. If we compare two cars with xDrive all-wheel drive, then in terms of controllability through mechanics, a diesel engine will just be more profitable in everyday use. However, the transmission deserves a separate discussion.
Transmission Implementation
Already in the 90s, BMW designers experimented with combinations of powerful engines and mechanical gearboxes. At that time, two problems were recorded - the massiveness of the aggregated mechanism with a higher cost of integration and the growing demands on the reliability of the device. With automatic transmission, the situation was no simpler, but its problems were eventually resolved. Today, mechanical and automatic gearboxes of the ZF system are offered as a basic solution. According to users, in both versions, the mechanism responds quickly, confirming the prevailing opinion about the good handling of the BMW 540i regardless of engine. For those who are looking for modern high-tech solutions, it is worth offering a complete set with 8-speed gearboxes on the Steptronic platform. In addition to expanding the range of action of the box, new mechanisms also offer a dense bundle with sensors. For example, an infrared camera with ceiling sensors monitors the position and movement of the hand in the area of the selector. Management is done by buttons, which also have to adapt, not forgetting the additional control by electronic assistants.
Optional security
The family has acquired several structural additions from the Performance package, which emphasize a sporty style like the M-steering wheel and M-brakes, but the main content is still electronic systems. In particular, there is an innovative device to minimize roll - Dynamic Drive. Even in conditions of dynamic fast aerobatics, passengers practically do not feel the problem areas of the road surface. The active cruise control system helps the BMW 540i G30 to steadily adhere to the speed range with restrictions from 0 to 210 km / h. The calculation of the optimal mode is based on the traffic situation - the electronics are oriented both to the position relative to the vehicle in front and to the colleagues from behind. Adaptive Drive also deserves special mention. It allows you to adjust the stiffness of the shock absorbers also for specific conditions, while interacting with stabilization mechanisms and cruise control.
Model Exterior Reviews
At first glance, the appearance remained the same, but experts on the family immediately notice discrepancies with the classics. Many owners of the car, in particular, are pleased that the bumpers were added to the reliefs, and the exhaust pipes were distributed on different sides. Also, the headlights became wider and more spectacular, adding brutality. In general, owners of the BMW 540i conclude that the G30 reflects the natural look of a business-class sedan as it should be in the 21st century. Experts, in turn, are in no hurry to breed the style of the new generation with the traditions of the 5 Series. It has its own differences and features, but they even more closely correspond to the ideology of this line. It is in the spirit of prestige, ergonomics and comfort. The only thing that gets negative reviews is in places elongated shapes (for example, lights) that visually expand the model. The fashion for the consolidation of sedans is gradually passing and such decisions look more and more ridiculous, not to mention the lack of real benefit in them. But there are opposing opinions. For example, it is noted that short overhangs, coupled with an elongated hood and a rear-mounted interior, help to increase the dynamics that distinguish the German brand from its competitors.
Interior Reviews
The feeling of solidity and solidity is also transferred to the salon, the architecture of which is also complemented by new technological advantages - again, when compared with generations of 10-15 years ago. First and foremost, experienced drivers appreciate the separation of the touch-screen display and front panel. Nevertheless, they have different tasks, so this solution justifies itself. In addition, the owners of the car enter comfort. The seats, even in the basic configurations, get the possibility of heating and ventilation. Landing parameters are controlled via an electric drive, which also adds convenience. If we talk about the sports features of the BMW 540i G30 M, then to a certain extent they include the steering column lockable switches, the presence of a massage program, a deep landing in itself and many gadgets with indicators of dynamic indicators.
Driving Reviews
Behavior on the road is characterized by a smooth ride, responsiveness of control mechanisms and at the same time high reliability. As for the sports component, the car owners emphasize the combination of dynamics and the ability to smooth out irregularities - this was made possible also thanks to the adaptive chassis. In addition, experts already note that the BMW 540i G30 M Performance cuts airspace with greater ease. The aerodynamics of the body are distinguished by good streamlining, to which many add optimal sound insulation.
Conclusion
Not always updating models due to optional packages is crowned with success, even among large manufacturers. In this case, it is not just about creating a restyled version of a successfully sold hatchback, but about a radical revision of the whole series, which is based on premium sedans. Moreover, the update itself assumed a change in the power filling with a correction for the sports style of movement. Ultimately, the evolution of the BMW 540i paid off. Even if we do not talk about the positive impressions of fast-driving enthusiasts, the target audience of fans of classic Bavarian sedans certainly did not turn away from the Performance package. On the other hand, putting the novelty on a par with full-fledged sports cars based on competitors' sedans is also not necessary. Therefore, it turns out in some way a hybrid in which each motorist will find something different.