BMW Potpourri! The New M3 Coupe in The Flesh

Within the BMW M GmbH model range, the BMW M3 has always been that very special model living up in full to its motorsport heritage. Indeed, this already applied to the very first BMW M3 launched in 1986 and continued throughout the two subsequent model generations. And now this supremacy comes out once again most clearly in the 2007 version of the BMW M3.

Although the latest generation of the BMW M3 was based in its development on the new BMW M3 Coupé, the new high-performance model differs from the "regular" coupé in terms of both looks and technical features. Apart from the car's unique design as well as its drivetrain and suspension technology conceived from the start for supreme performance, lightweight technology came right at the top in the brief given to the engineers at BMW M. And just how consistently this development target has been translated into reality in terms of intelligent lightweight engineering is borne out by the car's power-to-weight ratio of only 3.8 kg (8.4 lb) per horsepower.

One of the reasons for this low weight is that the new BMW M3 is the first production car in its segment to boast a roof made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP). And in all, the new BMW M3, with the exception of just a few components, is indeed completely new in its engineering and design concept, clearly reflecting the successful tradition of BMW M GmbH.

Apart from the load-bearing structure of the car, only the two doors, the bootlid, the windows, the headlights and rear lights have been carried over from the 3 Series Coupé. All other body components, by contrast, were specially developed for the new BMW M3.

The unique character of the new BMW M3 is obvious at first sight: Over and above the engine compartment lid with its striking powerdome and the two air intake openings, the function-oriented design of the front and rear air dams, the so-called gills in the front side panels, the side-sills also in distinctive design, the roof made of clearly visible carbon fibre, as well as the exterior mirrors and light-alloy wheels in BMW M design clearly characterise the new model from the ground up. The exterior, in turn, through its athletic and aesthetic appearance, powerfully underlines the sporting qualities of the car.

The exterior paintwork likewise adds an individual touch, offering the connoisseur not only numerous additional colours, but also four special paintwork options exclusive to BMW M.

answer - 4/5/2007 2:05:38 PM

+8 Boost

Little touches really define this car. Hood vents are nice and those are some of the best side mirrors ever. Also love the roof and the finish on the wheels.

Now lets see one in black please!

WeAreMad - 4/5/2007 5:27:25 PM

+3 Boost

A+ on the mirrors.

SHERR - 4/5/2007 10:04:22 PM

+2 Boost

love the mirrors, side vents, front and rear bumpers...give me one in black though..

cpruitt - 4/5/2007 2:06:21 PM

+2 Boost

Has anyone heard the sound of this V-8 engine?
I think it's definately not bad...

http://www.automobilemag.com/multimedia/audio/0703_2008_bmw_m3_engine_sound_acceleration/

Sp33drac3r - 4/5/2007 2:10:31 PM

+1 Boost

You can see a video of the car, and exterior colors here http://www.bmw.com/com/en/index_highend.html?prm_content=../../com/en/newvehicles/mseries/m3coupe/2007/experience/phase_1/_highend/xml/experience.xml

Sp33drac3r - 4/5/2007 2:30:04 PM

+1 Boost

looks like the url got cut off, try this one
http://www.bmw.com/ and click on the link for 2007 M3 Coupe at the bottom of the page

atomicbri - 4/5/2007 5:20:22 PM

+2 Boost

Thanks for the link, that was HOT!

M53R - 4/5/2007 2:13:21 PM

-4 Boost

Yes people, let me introduce..... the best car in the world..... the BMW M3..... Enjoy ! ;)

nvme - 4/6/2007 3:06:35 PM

0 Boost

assumptions...

M53R - 4/5/2007 2:22:44 PM

-1 Boost

Thanks for the explanation.... your totally right! Here comes the king! BEST CAR IN THE WORLD!

jmrA480 - 4/5/2007 3:15:22 PM

+2 Boost

I would like to see some performance numbers first before you make it the king of this segment, on looks alone I would still take the RS4. I do like the looks of the M3 , but lose the hood scoopes.

M53R - 4/5/2007 2:23:26 PM

-3 Boost

you are*...... before someone makes a fuss about it!

Talli - 4/5/2007 2:42:22 PM

-1 Boost

kool car and love the paint.
well i have a few questions i would b very happy if sum1 cud answer it
1)how is a cars speed electronically limited??
2)how can the limiter be removed?
3)what decides a cars top speed. i mean the flying spur and the continental gt do the same speed and a gallardo with less weight goes abit slower.
4)why if 599gtb and the mc12 have the same enzo engine, they produce different power with enzo producing the highest.
5)a 6.5lt lambo(LP640) produces 640hp (or 632 for sake of argument) and a 7.3lt AMG(zonda) produces 604hp(or 610 for sake of arg.). If thats the case, whats the big deal about an AMG??

jeffy210 - 4/5/2007 3:16:19 PM

+5 Boost

1) the ECM monitors all aspects of the car usually (including speed) all it does is limit the throttle to prevent it from going faster (the ECM can override your foot)

2) usually there are aftermarket companies that can reprogram the ECM to ignore this limiter

3) usually German companies have a "gentleman's agreement" to limit their cars to 155-mph even though some can go faster. Car's top speed (without a limiter) is usually a factor of physics (weight, aerodynamics, engine, etc.)

4) this is mainly engineering related. Different exhaust systems can increase horsepower, different transmissions have different amounts of power loss. The more efficient (like the Enzo) the better

5) AMG is known for the insanely large engines which usually results in some ungodly torque and straight line acceleration that people have trouble matching. Some people, myself included, like that :)

Threepoint1415926 - 4/5/2007 3:16:39 PM

+1 Boost

1) Cars are usually limited by a throttle cut or retarded timing.
2) Usually with a chip from a tuner or a "pretty please" to the manufacture.
3) Top speed is determined by either Gearing (Engine hits rev limiter in top gear), Aerodynamics (Zero acceleration before rev limiter is achieved. Force of friction is equal to force provided by the drive train) or Electronically (as above).
4) Specific outputs depend on fluid dynamics, timing, fuel, friction and weight (specifically inertia). Any one of those things can be changed to shoehorn a motor into a compartment. Generally when the same base engine is used in different cars, marketing departments determine HP ratings not engineering departments.
5) AMG is a big deal for many reasons. Though many Bavarian folk used to (and now even more people have joined in) make a big deal about specific output, the "proof is in the pudding" for lack of a better term. Any time someone points out a lack of specific output, I point them squarely at the push-rod LS7 motor and its power, weight, size, fuel consumption and reliability.

jmrA480 - 4/5/2007 3:18:00 PM

+8 Boost

"But I think that pesky G37 handles better while riding smoother"

Whats in the world would make you think this? have you driven both of them?

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:06:21 PM

+2 Boost

Key word; you THINK!
i never thought you could...
you need to wait at least till there is a test of the M3 in some magazine so you can judge which is better, but i don't count on you being reasonable...

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:09:20 PM

0 Boost

not that i believe that you've driven anything in your life, but assesing a car's handling with feeling is very subjective, therefore cannot be asserted or argued!

S4cabriofoxone - 4/5/2007 7:37:59 PM

+1 Boost

Do you expect us to believe you?

And why would you base your opinion on the E46, when this is the E92?

S4cabriofoxone - 4/6/2007 12:13:08 AM

0 Boost

I can only recall it happening once. In the IS-F article that I posted a few months back. You weren't on the site at the time.

Don't make me out to be a Lexus hater. I bought my wife a damn RX330, and an RX300 before that. I'm sick of hearing it.

nvme - 4/6/2007 3:54:32 PM

+1 Boost

nvme for who i am not what i have, but that's personal, just like nicknames are, i didn't choose my nickname to use it for bragging...
read my posts then accuse me of being a badge whore... i mean a do have an obvious preference for BMW, but i am capable of recognizing facts and judging opinions...

S4cabriofoxone - 4/8/2007 11:43:04 PM

+1 Boost

Ah, which name were you, then?

Terminal10 - 4/5/2007 4:21:36 PM

+5 Boost

You impressions of the E46 are based on your ride from the point of 10 feet when you drive the customers car to the car wash entry point and then the automatic car wash does the rest.

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:11:28 PM

0 Boost

i dont know why i even bother reading, let alone answering your pathetic excuse for posts, but i have a feeling you enjoy this steril discussion you are dragging us into...

SHOWTIME - 4/5/2007 4:30:08 PM

0 Boost

Terminal10, LMAOOOOO!

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:13:21 PM

+1 Boost

what is LMAO?

EL34 - 4/5/2007 10:18:09 PM

0 Boost

It means the new M3 has way more carbon fiber than we expected.

EL34 - 4/5/2007 10:18:54 PM

0 Boost

It means the new M3 has way more carbon fiber than we expected.

S4cabriofoxone - 4/6/2007 12:13:51 AM

+1 Boost

Laughing my ass off.

SHOWTIME - 4/6/2007 11:55:47 AM

+1 Boost

means laughing my ass off...like LOL laughing out loud

SHOWTIME - 4/6/2007 11:58:17 AM

+1 Boost

means laughing my ass off...like LOL=laughing out loud

SHOWTIME - 4/5/2007 4:38:29 PM

+4 Boost

I've driven both cars and sat in the passenger seat of both cars and I had more fun being in the passanger seat of the M3 than driving the G35 Coupe.

valentino - 4/5/2007 4:50:49 PM

+1 Boost

It sucks they limited it to 250 km/h!

atomicbri - 4/5/2007 5:24:08 PM

+3 Boost

At first I was not sure about this car, but after looking at all the pics, and video and colors, HELL YEAH! Now BMW did a hood buldge right. Lexus' first attempt on the IS-F? A definate fumble! This car will run rings around the competition, no doubt. And comparing the G35 with the M3, please folks come on! Obviously that 10 minute test drive up the street and back from your local dealers does not make you a tester of cars!

Terminal10 - 4/5/2007 5:28:40 PM

+3 Boost

I agree.

Terminal10 - 4/5/2007 5:27:38 PM

+2 Boost

The top end without the limiter should be around 173mph.

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:17:36 PM

+1 Boost

I read on many sites numbers more like 190 mph!

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:21:51 PM

+1 Boost

I mean even the E46 M3 does 175 mph, and the M5/M6 do 200, so by comparing the power-to-weight ratio, and the fact that E92 has a Cd=0.28, while the E46 had Cd=0.3, i would bet on way more than 173 mph!

Terminal10 - 4/5/2007 5:51:39 PM

+1 Boost

Quick poll I was just on the link www.bmw.com and selected the M3. What color and what size rims would you choose?

atomicbri - 4/5/2007 6:05:20 PM

+1 Boost

Hard choice there! I loved the the Sparkling Graphite or the Interlagos Blue. The 19" rims are a must for me. May swing more toward the gray. Would not date as quickly even though I love the blue.

Talli - 4/5/2007 6:10:30 PM

0 Boost

Thanks jeffy210 and Threepoint1415926

YZFracer23 - 4/5/2007 7:09:10 PM

+2 Boost

I'm a die hard Audi fan and have over and over critized BMW, it's drivers, and it's fans for many reasons. Although, being an Audi fan, i would rather have an RS4, S4, S5, new RS5 etc; I MUST give a hand to BMW. I really think they did a great job w/ this car. Great styling, Great handling, and finally an engine for the M3 w/ a linear power band and isn't all over the place in torque.

But i'm still an audi guy, lol

nvme - 4/5/2007 7:24:44 PM

+1 Boost

I just love people like you! thank you! just for being rational, civilized, and open-minded!

SHOWTIME - 4/5/2007 7:37:30 PM

+2 Boost

RICEMASTER, you guessed close enough...only that a girl was doing it for me...but u wouldn't know anything about that...so anyways, to be completely honest, I like both cars. I'm actually considering the G37 for the price it costs. But if I had to choose between them for the same price, I'd be a fool to not pick the M3. Then you claim that the M3 is a luxury coupe not designed for the track? Why are they tested on the track against lamborghini, ferrari, porsche, NSX, etc...In fact, it is the only car that can fit 4 adults and still compete in the track with the rest of the supercars....Actually, lets throw in the M5 as well...Only BMW makes this happen! Now for real, you think a G35 or 37 can keep up with an M3 on the track? You've got to be kiddin me. You know shit about cars!

SHOWTIME - 4/6/2007 12:31:57 PM

+1 Boost

RICEMASTER, when I knew about cars you were still swimming in your fathers balls. So don't try to teach me or anyone else here anything about the M3 or any other car period. Do you not realize that everyone is disagreeing with you? Now go back in your mothers stomach and I'll go ask BMW if they can remake you. I'm sure they can fix all this mess out of you.

SHOWTIME - 4/6/2007 1:49:07 PM

+1 Boost

Fanboy3000, don't be so curious about what I was doing...you're starting to worry me too now...RS4, S6, and RS6 will handle themselves ok on the track mostly because of their AWD, but will be no match for the new BMW M Cars. E92 M3 will spank RS4 AND M5 will spank S6 and most likely the upcoming RS6 depending on its hp. Audi S lines basically need to have at least 100hp advantage to keep up with M cars. Example, what do you think will happen if E46 M3 and S4 raced on the track? 333hp vs 340hp...You know the answer. M3 without a doubt. Keep in mind, I also love Audi and their S lines, but this is how it is.

d1sinfo - 4/9/2007 6:08:04 PM

+1 Boost

Watch some of your Japanese palls driving and praising the German cars on this little show called Best Motoring maybe you have heard of it.

Josh
p.s. It would be show constantly praising the cars you for some reason seem to hate.

S4cabriofoxone - 4/5/2007 7:43:32 PM

0 Boost

It's awesome

S4cabriofoxone - 4/5/2007 7:44:36 PM

0 Boost

BTW I want a red one with the 19s!

sewingmachine - 4/5/2007 7:47:17 PM

-1 Boost

its nice, its a m3, but def not blow u away styling. those mags r butt.

Auto_Fan - 4/5/2007 8:54:39 PM

+1 Boost

Very impressive car. This M3 makes me seriously wanting it. I liked the 335 especially with the 19ich optional wheels, which I could buy without declaring bankruptcy, lol. But this one with its V8 engine, aggressive exterior, quad exhaust and the more anticipated super handling is just at much higher level. I just hope that the price is not too steep compared to the 335.

S4cabriofoxone - 4/6/2007 12:16:25 AM

0 Boost

Wait a couple years after it comes out... then lease it.

If you can. It's hard to resist.

EL34 - 4/5/2007 10:10:28 PM

-2 Boost

Now looky here, looks like the IS-F will be eatin' the Bayerische Motoren Werke M3's Staub!

lol

printhan - 4/5/2007 11:54:56 PM

+2 Boost

Another Definition of "Legend", BMW M3

528i - 4/6/2007 3:04:44 AM

-5 Boost

bottom line its fugly!!

MunichRob - 4/6/2007 6:23:00 AM

+2 Boost

Looking good looking good!

valentino - 4/6/2007 8:38:03 AM

+2 Boost

If i'd buy one it has to be black on black

AudiLexus - 4/6/2007 9:02:43 PM

+1 Boost

Looks like BMW may have gotten this one right. I'd still hold out for an RS5 though.

S4cabriofoxone - 4/7/2007 1:26:03 PM

+3 Boost

I drive an Audi, too, and I love them, but I also love this car. It's possible for that to actually happen, you know? Open up a little. BMW makes beautiful cars.

mitchatlexusofmarin - 4/8/2007 12:08:30 AM

-4 Boost

The G37 is so much better looking than this car that they are hardly playing in the same season- let alone same ballpark.

S4cabriofoxone - 4/8/2007 1:51:23 AM

+3 Boost

That's an opinion.

I was disappointed when I saw the new G37 in pictures. I think the old G35 coupe looked better. Perhaps it will sway my opinion when seen on the road.

But I do know that I LOVE the E92 design with all my heart-- sexiest 3 Series design, ever. I also know that I find the new M3 dazzlingly beautiful.

mitchatlexusofmarin - 4/8/2007 2:56:34 PM

-2 Boost

Sorry S4, when I look at the above pics, "dazzlingly beautiful" does not come to my mind. Nice looking, even above average yes, but dazzling- no. Maybe it's the red....
But, I believe that everyones opinion is 100% correct. That is why there are so many choices in the world. I love and have owned many BMWs', and never owned an Infiniti, but I like the G37 so much more strictly from a styling vantage. I like almost every Audi more as well.

S4cabriofoxone - 4/8/2007 11:46:19 PM

+1 Boost

Again, it's my opinion. I find the E92 in general to be a beautiful car. Probably the most beautiful BMW made in the Bangle era, bar the 6 Series.

d1sinfo - 4/10/2007 1:26:17 PM

+1 Boost

Ricemaster.

I have no choice but to call your posts for what they are. Dillusional statments loaded with subjective opinion based upon what I can only figure is some sort of complex(any psychologist care to diagnose). Your outlook on automobiles not only lacks any form of logic and reasoning, but also lacks facts.

You constantly chose to argue based upon your subjective opinion which you apparently hold highly, and continue to take broad generally accepted paradigms and blow them away without the slightest hesitation. Which shows a general disregard for others knowledge and opinions.

Your passion in this argument blinds you, your knowledge(knowledge blinded by your rock solid paradigms) blinds you, and your inability to to see the other side of an argument limits your ability to add to the dialog.

You are running blind, throwing out what you consider to be facts, and not once considering that you might not be the end all authority. I have noticed not once have you allowed anyones input to challenge your pre conceived notions about anything.

It highlights an overall immaturity that makes your posts somehow impossible for some to resist responding to. Myself included.

I used to be an overzealous fan of anything I believed to be true. I found my truth rocked on several occasions, started founding my truth and principals in facts, and considering the rest of my thoughts to be subjective opinions up for discussion, revisions, and rethinking. Being somewhat compassionate in the process of forming my opinions to what others also considered to be truth helps to create more well rounded thoughts and opinions.

Ignoring others, and holding your thoughts up as ultimate truth is a road which seems foolish to travel.

Josh

d1sinfo - 4/10/2007 3:10:12 PM

+1 Boost

Incase anyone cared.

I think the 2004 EVO is about 3250 pounds and that pig of a M3(04) is 3400 pounds.

I am a light weight whore, but when it comes down to it the e46 m3 is a safe, fast, competent sports sedan. It is a blast to drive, and even more of a blast when driven sideways. Balance is great, engine great, suspension great, trans great, brakes great. Maybe the entire package isn't perfect but its darn good.

Josh

drakarula - 4/13/2007 11:18:04 AM

+1 Boost

BMW MORONS!!! They didn't have the M3 at the NY auto show!!!! Inexcusable!!!

vr6ators - 4/17/2007 9:47:16 PM

+1 Boost

not a huge fan of the hood lines... the rest is sexxxxyyy tho.