In 1991, the E34 ///M5 got competition by the Mercedes Benz 500E and of lesser importance, the Opel Lotus Omega and the BMW-Alpina B10 Biturbo. Neither the Opel nor the Mercedes could match the ///M5 in character and driving abilities, but they where more powerful. The Opel Lotus Omega has a twin turbocharged 3,6 litre 24-valve engine and was (a cheaper) competitor for Alpina's B10 Biturbo. The 500E however was directly positioned as a competitor to the ///M5. Compared to the E34 ///M5, the 500E's strength was torque. It's 5,0 liter 32-valve V8 produced 480nm of torque. Despite that the 500E is approximately 100kg heavier than the E34 ///M5, it was the better autobahn performer. On all other disciplines, the E34 ///M5 with it's much better balance chassis is the better car. Nevertheless, BMW Motorsport redesigned the S38 to gain back the "fastest 4 door saloon" title.
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