BMW M3
The beauty of dynamics.
The exterior of the new BMW M3 Coupé.
With a vehicle as powerful and dynamic as this, styling is never an aim in itself. Form will always be driven by functional considerations. The expressive front is designed to accommodate the V8 high-rev engine. The muscular rear allows for the wider track and four tailpipes. Even the shape of the exterior mirrors adds to the overall aerodynamics. Only the interplay of all these measures ensures the desired effect: sports car performance that is ideally suited to everyday driving.
Comfort
Both saloon and coupe are very comfortable long distance cars - just like any other 3-Series. You can play with the damper control to soften off the ride if you're just tooling around, so it will never loosen teeth. It is louder and more aggressive in terms of the engine and damping set-up, but not enough to scare you.
Performance
Startling is a good way to describe the M3. That's a lightweight V8 under the bonnet that weighs less than the previous straight six and it produces 414bhp and 295lb ft of torque. That's enough to launch the coupe to 62mph in just 4.8 seconds and on to a limited 155mph. The saloon is slightly slower but you won't be able to tell.
Quality
It's one of the things that makes any 3-Series so coveted; the build quality and general feel is exceptional. You pay for the privilege, but the solidity is there.
Handling
Superlative. The new car is slightly softer than the old straight-six variant, but the better for it. It is easier to get to grips with and therefore faster for most people. Know what you're doing and it doesn't disappoint - it's capable of steering its way around much, much more exotic machinery.
Practicality
Go for the four-door if you have kids/carry passengers a lot - it may not have the coupe's carbon roof, but it realistically provides everything the coupe does with a touch more street-sleeper. The coupe has rear seats, but they're small and that carbon roof stands out a lot if you choose a pale colour.
| Technical Data |
| Body Type |
Sports Coupe |
Engine Layout |
FR |
| Engine Type |
4.0L V8 |
| Displacement |
3999cc |
Transmission |
6 speed manual |
| Performance |
| Power |
420 bhp |
Torque |
400 Nm |
| 0-100km/h |
4.8 secs |
Fuel Consumption |
8 km/litre |
| Suspension (F) |
Macpherson strut / Ventilated Disc |
| Suspension (R) |
Multi-link strut / Ventilated Disc |
| Dimensions |
| Length |
4615mm |
Width |
1976mm |
| Height |
1418mm |
Weight |
1655kg |
| Wheelbase |
2761mm |
Turning Radius |
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Information
For general enquiries or to arrange for an appointment please call: 6749 3669
