Volkswagen developed a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated W10 engine by combining two 2.5-liter five-cylinder units. The project, which cost approximately €2 million, was initiated in 1999 to create a rival for the BMW M5. Ferdinand Piech, then head of the company, used the prototype as his personal vehicle during testing.
The engine produces 480 hp and 592 Nm of torque. While the W10 never reached commercial production, its development contributed to the creation of the W12 engine and the W16 engine used in the Veyron and Chiron models. Only three W10 units were reportedly built.
The specific BMW M5 E39 housing this engine is the only road-legal example. It features a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The vehicle is currently listed for auction by Broad Arrow Auctions, with the sale scheduled for October 9.
The auction house estimates the final price for this unique prototype to be between €250 000 and €350 000. The car's original odometer has been replaced, making its exact mileage unknown.
