new M5 info - addendum

[Michael Reinhart <ub@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

The article in autocar didn't have any slalom times or skid pad test. 
BMW rates the car @ 1.2 g's, and their numbers are usually on the 
conservative side. Some more tidbits;
 front wheels - 8"  tires 245/40 ZR18
 rear wheels - 9.5" tires 275/35 ZR18
 weight - 1720 kg. (135 kg more than 540)
 price - 59,950 english pounds
 England availability - may, 99
On handling " Few cars feel as thoroughly at home when driven quickly as 
the new M5 does. The suspension, firmer of springs and dampners, uses 
the Touring's rear axle with track control arms, and reduces ride heigth 
by 15mm at the front and 10mm at the rear.
 "...the M5 is chuckable, with enormous traction, even on wet roads with 
the DSC turned off. The handling is so refined and communicative, the 
cornering attitude so close to neutral, that this impressively 
comfortable grand toureris fun to drive."

 Michael Reinhart

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