BMW M3: Third Generation Model Elevates The Standard To New Levels
The new M3 coupe, due in showrooms in late fall, is one of the most highly anticipated
BMW models ever. Following the success of the previous two generations of M3 - production
3 Series models, developed to ultra-high performance standards by BMW M, the Munich-based
subsidiary of BMW - the new M3 will elevate the performance capability even further.
Photos: BMW
Based on the newest generation BMW 3 Series coupe, known internally as E46, the M3
begins with a more rigid body structure than even it's highly competent predecessor - a
car which in race trim, won the Sports Car GT racing championship 3 years in a row.
A new 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission,
will deliver an estimated 330-horsepower, up from 240 in the previous M3. Torque will
increase as well, to an estimated 255 lb.-ft. This will allow the M3 to accelerate from 0
to 60 miles per hour in approximately five seconds. Other technical highlights include
double VANOS - infinitely-variable timing control on both intake and exhaust camshafts,
individual throttle butterflies for each cylinder with drive-by-wire throttle control and
M Dynamic Driving Control, which allows the driver to select a "sport mode" for
the throttle, providing quicker response to throttle inputs.
As is the philosophy with all BMW M cars, any increase in engine performance is matched
by increased capability in handling and braking. The M3 sits on 18-inch M-style alloy
wheels (8.0-inch wide front and 9.0-inch wide rear), with appropriately sized
high-performance tires (225/45 ZR - 18 front and 255/40 ZR -18 rear). A wider rear track
than the normal 3 Series coupe, plus the use of aluminum for the front suspension control
arms and the rear trailing link assembly both contribute to better handling. The M Dynamic
Driving Control, also affects the power assist of the rack and pinion steering. When the
"sport mode" is selected, the power assist is reduced, providing a firmer road
feel. Braking continues to be a competitive strength of the M3, thanks to
generously-proportioned four-wheel antilock disc brakes - 12.8-inches in front and
12.9-inches in the rear.
While the M3 conceals much of its performance capability by avoiding superfluous body
add-ons, there are nonetheless, many distinctive M touches to set it apart from the
standard 3 Series coupe. In addition to the 18-inch M-style wheels poised below larger
wheel arches, there are the trademark four polished stainless-steel exhausts, vent
"gills" in the front fenders and a power dome on the aluminum hood. The special
front bumper covering incorporating a deep spoiler with large air intakes and the rear
bumper covering incorporating an integrated air diffuser are also M exclusives.
Finally, electrically-folding M exterior mirrors, exclusive rocker panel moldings and
clear turn signal and side marker lenses help distinguish the M3 from standard 3 Series
coupes.
Inside, the M3 gets similar touches which identify it as a member of the M family.
Included are exclusive M sport seats with optional electrically-adjustable seat back
width, providing a more snug fit in sporty driving situations, M3 lettering on door sills,
an M multi-function sports steering wheel and M gauges, including a variable redline
tachometer, first introduced on the M5. |
