BMW – X5 Le Mans (E53) (2000)

When it premiered in March 2000, the BMW X5 Le Mans outshone every four-wheel drive that came before it. Under the bonnet of BMW’s first Sports Activity Vehicle, a 12-cylinder engine developing more than 700 hp provided powerful performance. It came from the Le Mans-winning V12 LMR, which took BMW to victory in the world’s toughest endurance race in 1999. A study in feasibility, Technical Director Albert Biermann once again demonstrated the impressive performance possibilities of BMW M. 

The large-volume 12-cylinder in the BMW X5 Le Mans is almost completely concealed beneath a weight-optimised carbon cover. The ‘V12 BMW Motorsport’ inscription almost makes it look like a gleaming prize-winner’s trophy. The race-proven engine developed its maximum torque at as little as 5,000 revolutions per minute, while the six manually shifted gears pushed the 2,130 kilogram SAV impressively towards Vmax. 

The most striking feature is the large, pocket-like opening in the laminated carbon fibre hood, which allows the radiator exhaust air to escape unhindered, helping the X5 Le Mans to stay at ideal temperature.