BMW is becoming increasingly crafty in finding ways to extract more money from its inexplicably loyal customers. The BMW brand has become far too expensive for what it offers, and the aggressive marketing often overshadows the painful realities of everyday ownership, of which there are many. Clearly, BMW thrives on a formula of capitalist exploitation: rugged individualism for the many, and socialism for the wealthy. This divide is exemplified by their latest cash grab—the so-called “Performance Parts.”
BMW Performance Parts are exclusively designed for the M5, representing BMW’s attempt to infiltrate the car tuning and modification industry. The reality is that OEM modifications suck; you’re better off seeking out a dedicated tuner/modder, as these specialist companies are passionate about what they do.
Automotive OEM modifications must be approved by a Steering Committee or an uninformed group of stakeholders who are more interested in graphs, charts, and data-driven decision-making, their primary concern is to grow dividends year after year.
The latest BMW M5 Performance Parts, made from carbon fibre to improve aerodynamic efficiency, come with no modifications to the twin-turbo, 4.4-litre, 727 bhp V8 hybrid engine. In truth, these Performance Parts are BMW’s attempt to assert their presence in the car tuning industry, driven by data analysis rather than genuine passion.
BMW has not disclosed the cost of these parts, and if you’re frustrated by this, we feel your pain.