Ot: 2001 m3

[T-WRX]

Let's put the speculation to bed. As per the Bavarian Motor Works . . .

333 bhp
261 lb-ft
8000 rpm redline
3454 lb curbwt
255/40ZR18 rear tires (19" optional)
4.8 sec 0-100 kmh
155 mph top speed (limited)

$49,500 base price (estimated by Automobile Mag)

BMW claims that it makes it around Nurburgring in the same time as a 911, and 15 seconds faster than the previous M3.

I don't like it as much as the previous model. Its got flashy chrome all over the place and has lost the Q-ship look that made it so special before. Instead of being a worked on 3-series, it has become its own distinct model.

50 grand? Get real. Oh yeah - no more sedan either.

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[Siper2]

Expensive it is, but not so expensive, I don't think. Especially considering what cars cost these days.

It has lost the old look, yeah, but I think that's what BMW wants. After all I guess the old look is... well... old...

As for it competing with a 911? It may come close, but I doubt it'd outrun the Porsche.

-S2-

[matt7184]

3500lbs, 333hp, 260lbtq, RWD doesnt 4.8 seconds seem very optimistic to anyone else?

[Siper2]

No.

-S2-

[T-WRX]

Coming from almost any other company, I'd say that 4.8 seconds is optimistic.

However, BMW historically UNDERSTATES the acceleration of their cars. And for some reason, they seem to be able to put the power to the road better than most manufacturers. More efficient drivetrains? More usable torque curves? I dunna.

[NeedaScooby]

Hey T-WRX,
I love the M3, but I would have to say that the new one mirrors more of what the origional car(e30) was meant to do. From what I have read, seen, and know about the history of the M3 is that it is NOT supposed to look like the other 3-series models. The e30 model is very distinctive as is the new e46. The e36 model was and still is an awesome car, but to non-car people you couldn't differentiate(sp?) the 2 very easily, except for the badge-duh-.
I like the looks of the new car but I do hope they make a lightweight model of this one as well to give the hardcore fans an option.
The fact that the e30 model was built to meet homologation rules and was a real Enthusiast's car. The later models have seemed to have lost that appeal a bit but they still have that Aura that is called "M"

And I personally would take any one of them

T-WRX, this is not meant as a flame, just a personal thought. If I angered you in any way, I am sorry.

Dan

[jImp]

I've always liked M3s, but ever since the E30s, they've lost my appeal. It's a great car for the money.

[joe2000impreza]

I like it

[Stook]

if i had the $, i would certainly like one! I do think 3400lbs is a bit much for that sized car!!!

I am sure it would be a great daily driver, but I like to venture off to the track, which I am sure would be scary in a $50k car, and the brakes would surely heat up quickly in 20minute sessions!

Generally BMW does understate their performance. they listed the M5 at 0-60 in 5.2 (i think), although it does it in 4.7-4.8. I don't know how, but BMW either underrates their engines, or they are awefully efficient! their cars weigh the same as other cars, with less HP, but still outperform.

I will guess some mags hit Sixty in 4.5 or so.

Scot

[T-WRX]

Dan (needascooby)

No problem, man.

I didn't much like the looks of the first M3 (E30) either. The term "boy racer" applies aptly. I have almost bought 2 1988 M5's, 1 1988 M6, and one 1991 M5. Something always turns sour. All the M's after the first M1 and M3 have been what I consider sleepers. At least until recently . . .

The factory Q-ships, or sleepers, are very special to me. Remember the galant VR4? Ohhh baby! The 1995 S6 avant? Yeah! 1993 M5 touring? Wooohaaa! For some reason, these autos speak to me like no others. They hide in plain sight.

The new M3 showboats a bit too much for me. Not that I don't want one - I just wish it traded the ruffles for an oxford.

[matt7184]

They must really underestimate the tq.
I still dont think it is a match for the carrera, esp. above 100.

[Zach]

I've already seen two of those on the road. One camouflaged a few months ago, and one not camo'ed a couple months ago. Looked stinkin' sweet to me...

[matt7184]

There plentiful in cali (test mules) even with SMG2.

See: www.e46fanatics.com

[matt7184]

Sorry, section with spyshots is down.

[NeedaScooby]

T-WRX,

I have contemplated buying quite a few also. Two e30 M3's 1 Euro M6 and an 88 M5. I totally agree that the "M" & "S" series cars from BMW and Audi are very very cool. Some day I will own one or more of them
Some day.

[rB5]

BMW actually brought a pre-production E46 M3 to the Monterey Historic races. I can attest that pics do not do it justice!!! It definately looks more aggressive than the e36, and very similar treatment as the current M5. I don't think its too much, but i do think it could lose some weight & be brought closer to what the e30 was.

T-wrx: Q-SHIPS FOREVER!!!! I still dream of owning a '95 S6 Avant one day, but i have to wait to see if the current S6 Avant ever makes it to the U.S.
Wagons ROCK!

[HomerJay]

I agree, it's a great car. Now only if they can get their new AWD system on there. I can see it now, the BMW M3X, droool!

[matt7184]

Cant wait for the new LTW AWD version to come out to go head2head with the C4.

[AKGC8]

You've got to be ****ting me, a M3 Lightweight AWD. Last I heard they were considering building a lightweight, but not for the USA after the horrible sales of the E36 lightweight. Never heard any rumors of an AWD one.

As for my opinion on the E46 M3 we will be getting, I like it. It is a bit heavy, but then again the E36 one was about 3250lbs or so. I think with the reworked suspension the new one will out handle the previous. It should do 60 in about 4.8sec, BMW was stating 5 sec. With all their new models, they will initially state a few tenths slow of what the magazines will test at. Then after the magazines have published their #'s BMW will drop their figures to match them. The car will have an excelent top end too. With that 8000rpm redline and good aerodynamics it can't help it. I read something from the engineers that designed it that said it would top out at about 180mph if it didn't have the speed limiter. So it will keep on pulling right up to 155mph. I'd defidently buy a 911 over the new M3, but if you couldn't afford the Porsche the M3 would make an excelent substitute.

[matt7184]

Latest rumors I have heard were that AWD may be an option for the LTW coming out (with liter weight of course, different suspension, gearing, smg2 option, etc, but with a possible new engine with more ccs or even a V8[doubtful, but possible]).
It will basically keep the design of the 330 AWD system.

[HomerJay]

The 3 series will offer a 330xi. An AWD member of the 3 series line up. Unfortunately, it won't make it on to the M3(which I think they should). It will use a similar system found on the BMW SUV. The torque split will be 38% to the front and 62% to the rear!

[matt7184]

The M3 will use the system found on the SUV?

[mastervic27]

If you name isn't on the reservation list by now the chances are you won't see it for a year. Run to your local BMW dealers and sign up!!!

[HomerJay]

Matt, to answer your question, no. BMW will add a new model called the 330ix or 330xi. It will have the new 3.0L engine and the AWD system borrowed from the SUV. My wish is that they will put it in the M3, or have it available as an optional model!

[matt7184]

Thats what ive been saying!!!
There is a rumor that that AWD will go into the LTW!
I was wondering what your talking about.