NEW BMW M3
The new car is loosely based on the current 3-Series coupe, convertible and saloon although the M3 shares minimal components with the standard car. The rest of the car has been specially modified or changed for the M3, including a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic roof for the coupe. The roof is not just there to look cool either; BMW claims that this one element aids the car's chassis set-up and dynamic capabilities.To stay ahead of the Audi RS4 and Mercedes C63 AMG, the M3 is fitted with a V8 engine for the first time. The most powerful production M3 ever, the performance figures are impressive. How about 414bhp, 295lb-ft of torque, a 0-62mph acceleration time of 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 155mph and the engine will rev to a heady 8,300rpm redline. Cast alongside the BMW Sauber F1 team's powerplants, this new unit is 15kgs lighter than the six-cylinder unit it replaces. So what's it like to drive then? The big V8 drives through the rear wheels with a slick six-speed manual gearbox, it has all the ingredients for a fun drive (A paddleshift sequential manual is now available as an option). The performance is amazing; the engine is very happy to rev right to the 8,300rpm limiter with an enjoyable, guttural roar. But compared with the Audi RS4, it's all a bit muted - could the latest M3 be too refined? A real shame as bystanders will enjoy the howling tones of the V8 more than you will. Not quite the ultimate driving machine but be in no doubt that the M3 is mind-bendingly fast, capable and massively entertaining.
