BMW M5 (E34): The Ultimate Executive Performance Rework
The BMW M5 E34 is the definitive “wolf in sheep’s clothing.” This M5 to feature a straight-six, it balanced 310 hp with a level of driver feedback that many believe peaked in the late 80s. While previous versions of this mod for Assetto Corsa suffered from dated textures and simplified physics, this complete overhaul by Didier Bestard and sDmD13.
A Total 3D & Interior Transformation
This isn’t just a physics patch; it is a visual restoration. Every major touchpoint of the car has been refined:
- High-Fidelity Cockpit: The addition of a Cockpit_HR (High Resolution) model and fixed gauge alignments ensures that the view from the driver’s seat is crisp and immersive.
- Next-Gen Lighting: Lights have been fully retextured and recalibrated with refraction tweaks. Note that with CSP 0.3.0.preview110, there is a known limitation where refractions on distant LODs may appear simplified—a small trade-off for the stunning close-up detail.
- Functional Tech: The infotainment screen now dynamically displays the song name from your media player, and the interior features working wipers with raindrops for full weather immersion.
- Authentic Branding: Missing steering wheels, M-badges, and logos have been restored to ensure the car feels like a genuine factory-fresh M5.
Physics: The S38B36 & Lightweight Chassis
The E34 M5 was famous for its “analogue” feel, and the new physics engine captures that perfectly:
- S38 Engine & Drivetrain: We have reworked the 3.6L straight six torque curve to deliver that characteristic “alto scream” as you pass 5,000 RPM. The 5-speed manual gearbox and drivetrain have been adjusted to match the Getrag Type D ratios, delivering a 0–100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds.
- Advanced Suspension Geometry: The M5 was the first 5-series to use extensive aluminum in its suspension. This rework features a completely new suspension type, simulating the MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear setup with corrected roll centers and dive/squat behavior.
- Weight & Aero Balance: The aero maps have been redrawn to account for the E34’s 0.31 drag coefficient, and the weight distribution has been refined to ensure the car feels “balanced” rather than front-heavy, allowing for those legendary controlled slides.
Customization and Polish
- Livery Expansion: This version adds a massive variety of skins, from classic Carbon Black to rarer “Individual” colors.
- Rim Options: Several skins now include optional rim styles, allowing you to choose between the classic Style 65 “M Shadow Chrome” wheels and other period-correct options.
- Technical Fixes: Includes a re-sized 3D collider for better wheel-to-wheel racing and a complete overhaul of texture mapping to remove “visual noise” from the older model.
Installation & Compatibility
Note: This download is a comprehensive package including the 3D model and data files.
- Requirements: Custom Shaders Patch (CSP) is mandatory for the infotainment, raindrops, and lighting refractions to work.
- CSP Note: If using latest preview builds (0.3.0+), be aware of the minor LOD refraction bug mentioned in the known bugs section.