BMW works driver Bruno Spengler has set a new lap record for a four-door production sedan at the Shanghai International Circuit.
Spengler clocked 2:22.828 minutes at the Formula 1 circuit on the outskirts of the Chinese metropolis.
Although he pengler was making his first appearance at the circuit and the conditions were not ideal on the cold and damp track, the 2012 DTM champion smashed the previous record by five seconds.
The BMW M5, which Spengler had at his disposal for his record-breaking drive, was a production model without any modifications for the racetrack.
This underlines BMW M’s philosophy of producing road-going vehicles which you can take to the track at any time.
“Besides power and torque, I suppose the secret of this car is its excellent balance,” Spengler said.
His DTM career includes 15 race wins and 48 podiums so far.
“It’s very agile and responsive, and the increased traction with the four wheel drive makes this car very easy to drive. It is also lighter than the previous generation, which plays an important role on a track like this,” he said.
The M5’s 4.4-litre twin turbo V8 has been extensively revised and now delivers 441kW and 750 Nm, with 0 to 100 km/h taking just 3.4 seconds.
The M-specific suspension helps optimise driving dynamics with the addition of all-wheel drive for the first time.
Weight has also been pruned with a rood that is made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic.