They only add the “M” to the MPA (M Performance Automobile) on the more performance version, it is never added to a base model. In the 5 series range, there is a 530, an M550, and the M5.
An MPA vehicle, like the M550, is NOT an M car.
The 530 has a 2.0L turbo 4, the M550 has a twin turbo 4.4L V8, the M5 has a highly tuned version of the twin turbo 4.4L V8 plus an electric motor that adds another 194 hp.
The “M Sport Package” when added to any car is just a trim package. Upgraded seats and steering wheel, black window trim etc. It does not change the designation of the vehicle, or the performance in any way, except maybe a better steering rack, and bigger brakes. Although the M Sport Package brakes are still smaller than the brakes on the MPA version.
They only add the “M” to the MPA (M Performance Automobile) on the more performance version, it is never added to a base model. In the 5 series range, there is a 530, an M550, and the M5.
An MPA vehicle, like the M550, is NOT an M car.
The 530 has a 2.0L turbo 4, the M550 has a twin turbo 4.4L V8, the M5 has a highly tuned version of the twin turbo 4.4L V8 plus an electric motor that adds another 194 hp.
The “M Sport Package” when added to any car is just a trim package. Upgraded seats and steering wheel, black window trim etc. It does not change the designation of the vehicle, or the performance in any way, except maybe a better steering rack, and bigger brakes. Although the M Sport Package brakes are still smaller than the brakes on the MPA version.
Ya, it’s kinda a confusing mess.