It seems that with every progressive generation of BMW 5-series, the gap between the outgoing M5 and the top of the line non-M 5 series narrows considerably. While there wasn’t much of a contest between the E28 M5 and E34 535i, by the end of the E34 run the 540i M Sport was – for all intents and purposes – a M5 without the S38. BMW upped the ante to 400 horsepower in the new E39 M5, once again widening the gap to the 540i model. But the successor E60 545i offered 330 horsepower with matching torque in 2003 alongside the outgoing E39 and once again the gap in performance became much smaller. That gap was made almost imperceptible in 2005, when BMW revised the E60 with the increased displacement in the N62 motor.
Now sporting 4.8 liters from the N62B48, the new “550i” now had 360 horsepower and 361 lb.ft of torque – a near match for the S62. What was perhaps more amazing was that the new N62 also nearly matched the torque of the new E60 M5’s S85 V10. But while that screaming V10 produced far more horsepower, the peak torque was reached only at 6,100 revolutions – hardly practical in your daily commute. In comparison, peak twist on the N62 came at a much more realistic 3,400 r.p.m.s, and on the fly these 550is were – and still are – seriously quick sedans. They also introduced the next generation of design language and computer technology into the 5-series. Some love the look while others lambaste the design. While it’s certainly not my favorite 5, at least it’s distinctive and different in a world full of cookie-cutter designs and dare I say I think it may look better today than it did new – perhaps a testament to its avant-garde lines. While the lust-worthy V10 captures the imagination of enthusiasts, day-to-day the 550i is likely as fast 95% of the time and much cheaper to get into and run. Couple that with a host of Dinan upgrades and you’ll easily surprise M owners for half the price of the V10:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2008 BMW 550i M-Sport Dinan 5 on Dallas Craigslist
Year: 2008
Model: 550i M-Sport Dinan 5
VIN: WBANW53538CT52912
Engine: 4.8 liter V8
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Mileage: 118,000 mi
Price: $8,975 Buy It Now
The last of the naturally truly aspirated BMW V8s, this elegant sedan and sporty paddle shifting sports car is both with a hefty 390 HP (approximately 30+ with DINAN UPGRADES), this car is more than fun, it’s just a blast to drive. No sport mode even needed (although it has it)!
Wrapped with 19″ OEM BMW 5 spoke M5 wheels, this classic look of the 5 series is accented even more with the M-Sport body kit and DINAN tuned exhaust.
It’s got everything of an M5, without all the problems of a M5! And gets better gas milage than most V8s.
DINAN UPGRADES:
Performance Engine Software
Dinan Performance Engine Software extracts additional power as well as speeding up throt-tle response. The software safely raises the rev-limiter by 250 rpm, enabling you to carry more road speed in each gear as well as optimize shift points for maximum acceleration. The top speed governor is removed, enabling the cars to reach their natural top speed. Additional stages of Dinan Engine Software are available, calibrated for use with specific combinations of the other Dinan engine products in order to ensure optimum performance, reliability and drivability.550: +8 hp @ 6500 rpm / +6 lb-ft torque @ 6500 rpm
High Flow Air Intake System
The performance intake systems take full advantage of the ram-air effect by adding a second inlet that force-feeds more cool, oxygen rich air to the engines. The systems feature an enhanced replacement air box and cover that increase total volume as well as accommodate the additional air inlet and larger high flow filter element. The air box and cover are manufactured from injection-molded plastic, provid-ing the most effective insulation against power robbing under-hood heat. The sealed design pressurizes the intake system for maximum power gains and fur-ther reduction of intake air temperatures. Air from the added inlet is channeled through a carbon fiber duct, offering a tasteful high performance look under the hood. The 550 system also includes a replacement air mass meter housing and adaptor. Matching Stage 2 Engine Software is highly recommended for optimum performance and drivability.550: +18 hp @ 6500 rpm / +15 lb-ft torque @ 6500 rpm
Free Flow Exhaust
Reduced weight, 100% 304-stainless steel construction, a great sporty exhaust note and superior flow make for the best performing 5 Series mufflers on the market. Larger polished stainless steel tips give the cars a tasteful high performance look unlike any other. Careful attention to detail ensures a perfect fit using the factory hangers.550: +6 hp @ 6500 rpm / +5 lb-ft torque @ 6500 rpm
High Flow Throttle Body
Dinan carefully bores the stock throttle body, increasing the internal diameter for greater air-flow area. The larger bore further improves air-flow for increased power output and more immediate throttle response. Matching Stage 3 Engine Software is recommended for optimum performance and drivability.550: +4 hp @ 6500 rpm / +3 lb-ft torque @ 6100 rpm
High Flow Air Mass Meter Housing
Dinan’s High Flow Air Mass Meter housing features a larger internal diameter, further improving the delivery of air to the en-gine for maximum output. The Air Mass Meter is available for both the 545 and 550, for use in conjunction with the High Flow Intake Systems. Matching Stage 4 engine software ensures optimum performance and drivability.Notes:
– Full maintenance records from Classic BMW in Dallas up to 50K Miles. Independent shop EuroConnection from 50K to 118K has balance of maintenance records.
– Title in hand
– You pay for delivery and any additional options at your choosingMaintenance Records so far I have gathered: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FMVAvFOA5_zTH1Djpf5qK2G2LG4a_F3d3eOhxbRkZBc/edit?usp=sharing
do NOT contact me with unsolicited services or offers
What does the Dinan work do to the already fairly potent N62? Fora discussing the changes seem to indicate there is a demonstrable change in the attitude of the engine, especially in throttle response and that the car’s power numbers listed. Supposedly, the intake alone is good for 18 horsepower so the full lot of throttle body, intake, exhaust and software should add more than 10% to the output. That should leave this 550i right around or just north of 400 horsepower as the seller suggests. What is clear is how much those modifications cost originally; without installation, the Stage 3 software runs $559, the exhaust is $1,338, the intake is $1,132 and to top it off the throttle body is a further $926. All told, you’re out the door with $5,000 or more worth of Dinan bits, but outside of the discrete badge you wouldn’t know it. Subtle bumper and sill changes made the M-Sport more aggressive, while the M5 wheels add a splash of pizzazz to the understated Black 668 exterior and over LCSW Black Dakota leather.
Produced in late November 2007, this car was equipped with the M-Sport package P7MPA, S229A Dynamic Drive, S225A Sport wheel, S2NNA Style 172s, S2TBA Sport transmission, S2VBA Tire pressure monitoring, S300A/302A central locking and alarm, S319A integrated remote, S339A Shadow Line trim, S354A green windshield, S403A glass sunroof, S430A/431A autodim mirrors, S438A fine wood, S441 smoker package, S442A cupholders, S456A comfort seats, S473A armrests, S508A park distance control, S552/S554 Xenon lights with auto-level, S534A automatic air conditioning, S563A light package, S609A navigation system, S620A voice control, and a host of options for prewiring the radio and phone.
This example is in beautiful condition and the paintwork gleams. My time with an E6x was highlighted by serenely soaking up mileage on the highway; these are supremely confident on the fly and you’ll arrive at your destination none the worse for the wear. Despite the highway comfort, my 530xiT was great fun to drive in the twisties. Turn the power up and drop the weight down, with a stiffer suspension and it’ll surprise you with its agility. I’ve been on track in 545is and 550is, and their agility defies their massive stature. Getting into a complicated older German car can sometimes be daunting, but the 550i does a nice job of balancing performance and luxury without the bills associated with the S85 V10. That it comes to market at 50% of the going rate of Ms is an extra bonus.
-Carter
He’s now dropped it down to less than $9k!
What is the maintenance outlook on this beast?