After the launch of the new BMW V8 engines (M60), two different displacement versions were also supplied in the BMW 5 Series (E34). The bigger version with a displacement of 4.0 litres was installed in the BMW 540i and delivered 286 hp. This made it the flagship model of the series only to be surpassed by the BMW M5. While the latter vehicle was designed for thoroughbred sportiness, the BMW 540i found greater demand among fans of fast-paced travel who also placed premium value on comfort and high-quality equipment. In spite of the hefty starting price of DM 82,000, more than 24,000 customers were convinced by the exclusive vehicle. ALPINA also recognised the potential of the vehicle and created the ALPINA B10 4.0 on this basis.