The 507 bhp BMW V10, used in the M5 and M6, has been voted International Engine of the Year 2005 by a jury of 56 motoring journalists from 26 countries.
As well as the obvious achievement of over 100 bhp per litre without the need for a turbocharger, the judges praised the engine’s relatively light weight (260 kg which is good for such a huge motor), refinement and use of advanced technology, such as the ability to cut power to a “mere” 400 bhp for town use and change the throttle response according to conditions.
BMW also won two other classes with the M3 and 535d engines, proving that “motor” really is their middle name.