The M3 uses forced induction – by way of two turbos
– for the first time in history. It’s even spawned an M4 in the process. But
can it capture the essence of an M3?
I really want to like this car. After all,
the BMW M3 is one of my all-time favourite machines. Moreover, everyone who’s
already driven the brand new M3 / M4 (the coupe is now known as the M4, while
the sedan retains the M3 moniker) has done nothing but rave about it since. So,
it appears that there’s nothing to worry about then?
Well, not quite. You see, the last gen M3
was an incredible machine. It had enough grip and power to embarrass most
supercars. But it just didn’t get under my skin. Frankly, it left me a little
cold. Don’t get me wrong, it was great to drive – perhaps a little too good! It
simply had too much grip to approach the limit on public roads without putting
yourself on the brink of arrest. And while the V8 was a monster motor, it
wasn’t shrill and hypertensive – like you expect an M3 heart to be.
The
M3 has adopted a lightweight carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic propshaft
The current generation, though, has
reverted back to six-cylinders – but not necessarily because M3 purists
demanded it. BMW has done so to meet the ever-increasing emissions regulations.
They’ve also slapped on two turbos to the in-line six to keep its power levels
at a stratospheric 425 horses while retaining a respectable level of emissions
and efficiency. But turbos typically add a delay in throttle response – plus
they mute the exhaust note. So, we’ll have to see how the M-division has
addressed these issues. What they have done is make the new car 80 kilos
lighter than its predecessor and that certainly can’t hurt. So, I headed to
Portugal (courtesy of the BMW Group) to jump into the drivers’ seat and pass
judgement for myself.
The
M4 really is a car for all occasions
A fifteen hour journey was made worthwhile
with the reception that we received on arrival – a fleet of gold M4’s
(ostensibly, the gold was to appeal to the Sindhis amongst us) and blue M3’s
greeted us as we arrived. Personally, the Yas Marina Blue was much more to my
taste. Now, the last gen M3 could be accused of being a little muted in the
looks department, but the new one certainly doesn’t have any such problem. The
M4, especially, is bursting with vanes, vents, and intakes, which make it look
extroverted and aggressive no matter what the colour. At the back, there’s a
pronounced ducktail spoiler that looks stunning. The M3 doesn’t look too bad
itself. And you certainly can’t ignore the practicality of its four doors.
The
M3’s interior is driver-focused and as comfortable as you'd expect from an M
car
On the inside, the regular 3 Series cabin
incorporates a generous slab of carbon fibre, a beautiful 3-spoke steering
wheel, and a pair of very well fitted sport seats. The important bits that
differentiate the M3 from the standard 3 Series, however, are under the skin.
The engine, of course, is all new – 3.0 litres, 425 horses, two turbos,
pressure cast block, forged crank, magnesium sump, and a lot more wizardry than
you or I will ever be able to comprehend.
The
M4's cabin offers superb driving ergonomics
The motor appears cradled in the engine bay
by a sculpted carbon fibre brace that curves around the front of the engine,
which is linked not only to the strut towers but also the base of the A-pillars
for extra rigidity. The gearbox is the M-division’s latest 7-speed dual clutch
unit. The front sub-frame is all-aluminium, as is most of the suspension. There
are links and braces everywhere – even in the underbody to ensure extra
stiffness and rigidity. The roof is carbon fibre in both cars, while the hood
and fenders are aluminium. All of this, of course, is to ensure that the 400+
horses have as little mass to propel as possible.
