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Preview: The First V8-Powered M3 May 1, 2007 ) The M3 sports a high-revving V8, performance-built body work and 18-inch wheels in the M division's trademark multi-spoke design. Click on images for larger views.
Also, as BMW released information and photos over the course of several weeks, we figured they need to be compiled. Much of what you read here is verbatim from our other news items, albeit now in one spot. The new M3 sports a high-revving V8, a stiffer and more balanced chassis, performance-built body work and 18-inch wheels in the M division's trademark multi-spoke design.
For the first time, the M3's beating heart is a V8. From 4.0 liters of displacement, the F1-inspired eight-cylinder generates 420 horsepower — breaking through the magic 100-horsepower-per-liter mark with 105, truly exceptional for a normally aspirated motor. Horsepower for the North American model is expected to be a tad lower at 414. Torque is 295 pound-feet at 3,900 RPM, with 85 percent on tap by 6,500 RPM. True to its M lineage, this V8 is a high revver with a shrilling red line of 8,400 RPM. As with other M cars, the tachometer has a variable warning band that informs the driver of the engine speed currently available. Yellow and red lights move up the gauge as oil temperature rises. At 440 pounds, the aluminum engine is one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world — and is even 33 pounds lighter than the six-cylinder in the previous M3. Other features include low-pressure double VANOS variable valve timing, eight individual throttle butterflies, ion-flow technology and brake-energy regeneration. ) Quad exhaust pipes punctuate the M3's tail.
Launching the new M3 from zero to 60 MPH takes 4.8 seconds, says BMW, and the top speed is 155 MPH. Expected transmissions are a six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic with manumatic shifting. Form follows function — as the M3's styling serves ultra-high-performance purposes. Three large air ducts in the front bumper cool the engine, while a power-dome hood with two vents hints at the monster lurking below. Fenders flare at all four corners over big 18- or 19-inch rims and rubber. At the back are quad tailpipes and a venturi tunnel, the latter for down force and drawing hot air away from the differential.
Further aerodynamics round out the muscular appearance: sculpted rearview mirrors and side skirts, and a subtle trunk-lip spoiler. BMW's signature M chrome gill is nestled into each front fender, with a bisecting strip of LEDs for the turn-signal repeater. The M3 is based on the 3 Series coupe yet, on the outside, shares only its headlights, taillights, doors and trunk lid. Many components are made of light- weight materials including much of the mechanicals, the aluminum hood and carbon-fiber roof. This dark roof is becoming a telltale M feature. First seen on the M6 and now on the M3, the carbon fiber saves weight and lowers the car's center of gravity for more nimble handling. It has a layer of clear coat for a striking visual appeal. We can already see owners of lesser BMWs painting their roofs to get this new M look. What will appear particularly eye-catching is the contrast between light body colors, such as white and silver, and the dark glossy carbon-fiber roof. The Melbourne Red seen here is one of four exclusive M colors, along with Jerez Black, Interlagos Blue and Silverstone. Other colors include Alpine White, Black, Sparkling Graphite and Space Grey. This hot new V8-powered M3 is due out in the first quarter of 2008. A convertible with a carbon-fiber hard-top is expected later, as is a sedan and possibly a wagon. Also see: First Photos: M3 Sedan, M Cars Photos )
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