Munich. BMW M GmbH prépare actuellement le renouvellement ses modèles emblématiques. Avec des tests dynamiques effectués dans des conditions de course, le processus de développement en série de la nouvelle berline BMW M3 et de la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé entre dans sa phase finale. Avec une augmentation significative des performances par rapport aux modèles précédents et un système de suspension spécifique, les nouveaux moteurs six cylindres en ligne établissent une fois de plus des références dans le segment des berlines et coupés hautes performances de leurs catégories. Des innovations dans les domaines de la transmission, de la suspension, des amortisseurs et du freinage nécessitent des essais approfondis sur route, dans les centres d'essais de BMW Group à Miramas dans le sud de la France, dans la ville suédoise d'Arjeplog, ainsi que sur différents circuits de course.

Traditionnellement, la Nordschleife du Nürburgring pose les jalons d'une adéquation parfaite entre la transmission et la suspension dans toutes les situations. Cependant, comme les caractéristiques de performance d'une BMW M doivent convaincre non seulement sur ce circuit, mais aussi sur les profils de piste les plus variés, les ingénieurs d'essais élargissent toujours le programme de tests pour y inclure d'autres circuits, comme actuellement avec des prototypes camouflés de la nouvelle berline BMW M3 et de la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé au Sachsenring.

Quelques mois avant leur première mondiale mi-septembre 2020, le potentiel dynamique de la nouvelle berline BMW M3 et de la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé est déjà clairement perceptible. Une agilité enthousiasmante, une dynamique exceptionnelle et un comportement parfaitement maîtrisable, même dans des situations sportives extrêmes, caractérisent leur comportement de conduite. L'équilibre entre des performances exceptionnelles et une aptitude au quotidien sans restriction, si typique des modèles BMW M, atteint un nouveau niveau. "Pour chaque BMW M, nous mettons la technologie du sport automobile sur la route", déclare Markus Flasch, président du conseil d'administration de BMW M GmbH." La nouvelle BMW M3 Berline et la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé incarnent ce principe de manière particulièrement intensive, car ces deux modèles s'inscrivent incontestablement dans la tradition des voitures de tourisme les plus performantes au monde. Et les résultats des essais nous montrent que cette nouvelle génération de modèles est nettement supérieure à celle de ses prédécesseurs en termes de performances".

Les nouvelles BMW M3 Berline et BMW M4 Coupé sont proposées en deux niveaux de performance : Outre une variante de 480 ch (353 kW) avec une boîte manuelle à 6 vitesses, vous avez le choix entre un modèle de compétition de 510 ch (375 kW) et une boîte M à 8 vitesses avec Drivelogic. "Avec les versions Competition de la nouvelle BMW M3 Berline et de la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé, nous visons une dynamique maximale en matière de développement et de transfert de puissance - dans un premier temps avec une propulsion classique et, plus tard, également en liaison avec la dernière version de notre système à quatre roues motrices M xDrive" explique Dirk Häcker, responsable du développement de BMW M Automobiles et de BMW Individual.

Par rapport aux modèles précédents, les moteurs six cylindres en ligne des nouvelles voitures de sport hautes performances offrent une puissance accrue de 49 ch (36 kW) et 60 ch (44 kW) (modèles Competition) et un couple maximal de 650 Nm. De plus, grâce à la technologie M TwinPower Turbo et au concept de haut régime, le moteur impressionne par ses caractéristiques de performance dérivées de la course automobile. Le moteur excelle par sa réponse extraordinairement spontanée dans toutes les plages de vitesse et est également utilisé dans la BMW M4 GT3, qui deviendra le nouveau modèle haut de gamme de BMW M GmbH en compétition à partir de la saison 2022.

Grâce à un programme d'essais rigoureux, les ingénieurs du développement et des essais de BMW M GmbH travaillent actuellement à l'adaptation des éléments de suspension spécifiques aux caractéristiques de performance du moteur, de manière à garantir à la nouvelle BMW M3 Berline et à la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé une place sur la première ligne de la grille de départ dans leur segment de véhicule. Les quelque 3 670 mètres du traditionnel Sachsenring, qui est connu comme le site de longue date de la série de courses des German Touring Car Masters (DTM), offrent également les conditions idéales à cet effet. Avec son profil exigeant comprenant des virages en épingle, de longues lignes droites et le passage en descente avant le virage de Queckenberg, il est possible, tour après tour, d'optimiser de manière ciblée la gestion dynamique longitudinale et latérale de la nouvelle BMW M3 Berline et de la nouvelle BMW M4 Coupé.

BMW M GmbH is presenting another exclusive, limited-run special-edition model in the shape of the new BMW M3 CS (fuel consumption combined: 8.3 l/100 km [34.0 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 194 g/km*). With its accentuated sporting presence, the new M3 CS continues the decades-long tradition of successful M special editions which began in 1988 with the E30 BMW M3 Evolution. At the same time, the four-door high-performance sedan serves up a perfect blend of dynamism and everyday practicality.

The 3.0-litre high-performance engine exceeds the output of the M3 with Competition Package by 10 horsepower, raising it to 460 hp. State-of-the-art M TwinPower Turbo technology propels the M3 CS from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.9 seconds. The top speed of the new special edition, which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package, is electronically limited to 280 km/h (174 mph). With its two mono-scroll turbochargers, charge air cooler, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing, the six-cylinder in-line engine takes a clear and consistent aim at the higher echelons of performance, but is equally committed to developing significant torque from low engine speeds and achieving high levels of efficiency (fuel consumption combined: 8.3 l/100 km [34.0 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 194 g/km*). Pushing the new red start/stop button fires up the engine, and the distinctive sound produced by the specially tuned sports exhaust system of the new BMW M3 CS – with its quartet of tailpipes – proceeds to lay on a feast for the ears.

The new BMW M3 CS is equipped as standard with the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. This cutting-edge transmission has a separate oil cooler and enables both automated gear changes and manual interventions using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. It changes gears in fractions of a second with no interruption in the flow of power, but employs a long seventh gear to keep revs low and minimise fuel consumption over longer motorway journeys.

The suspension of the new BMW M3 CS largely mirrors that of the M3 with Competition Package. The links and wheel carriers at both the front and rear axles are made from forged aluminium and are therefore extremely light. That keeps the unsprung masses low and benefits driving dynamics. The M3 CS is fitted as standard with Adaptive M suspension, whose geometry has been tuned to deliver optimised performance on both the road and track. Ensuring the best possible grip in all driving conditions are the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – which includes M Dynamic Mode – and the Active M Differential. The control systems for the Adaptive M suspension, DSC and Active M Differential have been modified to suit the dynamic requirements of the BMW M3 CS, as has the set-up of the electromechanical steering. The driver has the option of adjusting the steering and suspension settings to their personal preferences or the demands of the route at hand. The special edition’s light-alloy wheels (front: 9 J x 19, rear: 10 J x 20) are very much at home on the race track, fitted as they are (as standard) with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R 19, rear: 285/30 R 20). These semi-slick cup tyres, which are also road-legal, provide unbeatable grip and supreme lateral stability at high track speeds. The M3 CS can also be ordered with Michelin Sport road tyres.

Moving inside the new BMW M3 CS, the generous use of two-tone full leather in Silverstone/Black and Alcantara creates a compelling and well-resolved ambience brimming with sporting allure and undeniable class. No M3 CS driver will need to compromise on the nicer things in life. Indeed, among the standard features on board are automatic climate control, a Harman Kardon surround sound system and the Navigation system Professional. True to form, the BMW M GmbH designers have given the new M3 CS looks that reflect the car’s sporting intent. The signature feature of its prominent front end, complete with cutting-edge twin LED headlights, is the front apron with large, three-section air intakes. The Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid has been newly designed specifically for the new M3 CS, and teams up with the front splitter and the rear diffuser to help minimise dynamic lift. These components are made from the lightweight and extremely rigid high-tech material carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are the bonnet and roof of the new BMW M3 CS.

Orders for the new BMW M3 CS can be placed from January 2018. The special-edition model – which will be limited to a run of approximately 1,200 units due to production factors – will be built from March 2018.

* Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provisional, based on the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format specified.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html.

Consumption and Emission Data.

Munich. 2016 marks the 30th anniversary of a motoring icon, one which revolutionised the mid-size sports car segment when its production started in 1986. The very first BMW M3 set a new standard by which other carmakers would be measured – and, five model generations later, are still judged today. BMW Motorsport Division, the precursor to BMW M Division, was incredibly rigorous in its deployment of undiluted motor racing technology in the development of the first-generation BMW M3. Its endeavours produced a thoroughbred high-performance sports car – based on the series-produced BMW 3 Series – that was perfectly suited to daily use. Over the three decades that have followed, BMW M has gently refined its trailblazing and highly successful creation from one generation to the next, while always taking great care to preserve the original character of the M3. The upshot is that there is arguably still no other car that blends such prominently honed motor sport genes and uncompromised everyday practicality into such an emotionally stirring overall package.

The 30th anniversary of the BMW M3 provides an ideal opportunity to look back at four highly intriguing model variants that, for various reasons, never made it past the prototype stage. Four surprise guests will therefore be attending their progenitor’s birthday party: the BMW M3 Pickup from 1986, the BMW M3 Compact from 1996, the BMW M3 Touring from 2000 and the second incarnation of the BMW M3 Pickup unveiled in 2011.

Use in touring car racing was the overriding development objective for the first-generation BMW M3.
The BMW M3 was not an attempt to produce a sporting flagship for a volume-produced model range; instead it originated from the idea of developing a racing car for motor sport that would also be available in a road-going version. The selected category of racing was Group A production touring cars – as seen in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) that had succeeded the German Racing Championship (DRM). The Group A regulations stated that for a racing car to be homologated, at least 5,000 road-legal units had to be sold within 12 months.

Having the chance to develop the production and race versions of the car alongside one another presented the development team with a tremendous opportunity, which they duly capitalised on. The axle kinematics, suspension and damping were all perfectly tailored to the future demands of motor racing, as was the braking system, which combined the standard ABS with inner-vented brake discs at the front and an engine-driven high-pressure pump. Details such as the transmission’s shift pattern with first gear at the bottom left also gave a clear indication of the vehicle’s singular focus on racing.

On top of this came extensive weight-saving measures. While the body with broad wheel arches was manufactured from sheet metal in the traditional manner, the front and rear bumpers along with the side skirts, boot lid and spoiler were made of plastic, reflecting the engineers’ commitment to intelligent lightweight construction. The BMW Motorsport experts tweaked the car’s aerodynamics too, with the C-pillar of the BMW M3 following a slightly shallower angle than the standard body and having a broader base. This allowed the airflow to be directed towards the distinctive rear spoiler more effectively.

Extensive use of high tech in the powertrain, too.
The experts at the Motorsport department used the two-litre four-cylinder engine fitted in series-production models as the basis for the M3’s unit, as the low weight of its construction and its high-revving capabilities meant it had exactly the right ingredients for a racing engine. To transform the well-mannered everyday engine into an athletic performer with sports car credentials, however, they had to subject it to some intensive power therapy.

First, they increased its displacement to 2.3 litres and converted it to a four-valve arrangement. For this purpose, the team employed a suitably modified cylinder head taken from the six-cylinder engine featured in the BMW M1, whose combustion chambers were – conveniently enough – spaced exactly the same distance apart as the four-cylinder unit’s. The crank drive on the BMW M3 was designed to be so rigid that it could handle 10,000 revolutions per minute and more. The standard production car’s rated engine speed of 6,750 rpm therefore left plenty of margin for further evolutions of the motor sport off-shoot.

From sporting machine to heavy-duty transporter: the BMW M3 Pickup (1986).
When the first generation of the BMW M3 was brought out, it wasn’t just customers who were enthralled by its exceptional dynamic abilities. It also caused quite a stir within the BMW Motorsport department responsible for its development, who saw it as the perfect means of transporting work equipment and parts around the premises of what is now BMW M Division in Garching near Munich. The only problem was that goods transport didn’t figure very highly on the list of the first BMW M3’s many talents.

It didn’t take long to remedy the situation, the body of a BMW 3 Series Convertible being transformed into a BMW M3 Pickup. “The convertible bodyshell was chosen as the basis for two reasons,” recalls Jakob Polschak, head of vehicle prototype building and workshops at BMW M Division and an employee at the company for more than 40 years. “Firstly, we happened to have such a model at our disposal and in perfect condition. And secondly, the convertible’s built-in bracing made it the ideal choice for a pickup conversion.”

The first BMW M3 Pickup did not sport the original’s boldly flared wings, as it was equipped with the narrower body of its regular, volume-produced sibling. At first it was powered by the engine fitted in the so-called “Italian M3”, which had a reduced two-litre displacement due to tax regulations there and an output of 192 hp. “Later we switched to the original 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower,” reveals Polschak. The BMW M3 Pickup went about its work around the factory premises reliably for over 26 years before finally being retired four years ago.

The BMW M3 Pickup’s long service life alone is clear evidence that the one-off versions being presented here are not mere gimmicks or engineering exercises. On the contrary, they are high-performance cars that have been optimised to perfectly match their intended task or field of use. As such, they epitomise the philosophy of BMW M. Plus, they also fulfilled another important purpose: “Our apprentices, graduate trainees and placement students assisted in the construction of all of these prototypes,” explains Polschak. “This allowed them to gain invaluable hands-on experience at the same time as freeing up resources for us – a classic win-win situation.”

A starter model for young target groups: the BMW M3 Compact (1996).
The same was also true of the 1996 BMW M3 Compact, of course. The idea behind this model was to present younger customers, in particular, with an entry point into the world of BMW M cars. “To a certain extent, the M3 Compact can be regarded as the forefather of today’s BMW M2,” remarks the BMW M workshop chief with a twinkle in the eye, and it’s easy to see why he draws the comparison. If it had gone into production, the M3 engine’s power would in all likelihood have been lowered somewhat. In the prototype, however, it was allowed to unleash its full 321 hp, which made easy work of propelling a lightweight car (it tipped the scales at just 1.3 tonnes). “It is 150 kilograms lighter, more agile, firmer and even more uncompromising,” enthused German motoring magazine “auto motor und sport” (issue no. 13/1996) after testing it.

A feasibility study under real-world conditions: the BMW M3 Touring (2000).
The BMW M3 Touring prototype likewise materialised because a production model was under consideration. The M3 Compact was made available to journalists for testing in order to both project an image and sound out customer interest. But the M3 Touring served entirely in-house purposes. “This prototype allowed us to show that, from a purely technical standpoint at least, it was possible to integrate an M3 Touring into the ongoing production of the standard BMW 3 Series Touring with very little difficulty,” explains Jakob Polschak. “One important thing we needed to demonstrate was that the rear doors of the standard production model could be reworked to adapt them to the rear wheel arches without the need for new and expensive tools.” Once it had passed through the assembly line, the M3 Touring required only minimal manual follow-up work to fit the M-specific add-on parts and interior details, for example.

History repeats itself: the BMW M3 Pickup (2011).
Once the first-generation BMW M3 Pickup described above eventually started to show the first serious signs of wear after around a quarter of a century of service, it was time for a successor. As with the original, those responsible for its creation again opted for a convertible body due to the existing strengthening elements. “The conversion work had initially proceeded in the usual, largely unspectacular manner during the spring of 2011. But then someone came up with the idea of marketing the vehicle as an April Fools’ joke, as April 1 was just around the corner,” recounts Polschak. To prime the public, spy shots of calibration runs on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit emerged in the run-up to the day, which served to fuel speculation about plans to build a production model.

And it worked. Reports from the time show that a good many journalists and bloggers took the bait and believed the rumours. Even the official press release published on 1 April 2011 did not immediately set matters straight, first presenting the BMW M3 Pickup as the “fourth body variant” following the Sedan, Coupe and Convertible, before going on to say: “309 kW/420 hp under the bonnet and a payload capacity of 450 kilograms over the rear axle take the BMW M models’ hallmark blend of racing-style driving pleasure and everyday practicality to a whole new level.” It also pointed out that the Cd was only marginally higher than that of the BMW M3 Coupe, the car was 50 kilograms lighter than the Convertible and the 20-kilogram targa roof could be removed to further lower the centre of gravity and therefore deliver even sharper handling dynamics.

It wasn’t until the final paragraph that the press release discreetly revealed the model in question was actually a one-off built for use as a workshop transport vehicle. Unlike its predecessor, however, it had also been licensed for road use.

The BMW M3: a sporting icon and dynamic benchmark for five generations.
30 years ago almost to the day production began of the first series-produced BMW M3s. This represented the opening chapter in a story of success which has no equal in the automotive world. The 2.3-litre four-cylinder unit with four-valve technology produced 147 kW/200 hp and accelerated the M3, which weighed just 1,200 kilograms, from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.7 seconds. Top speed was 235 km/h (146 mph). In 1988 the Evo version was unveiled, with power increased once again to 220 hp and its top speed to 243 km/h (151 mph). And this was followed in 1990 by the final development stage of the first-generation M3: the BMW M3 Sport Evolution with 238 hp 2.5-litre engine, produced in a limited run of 600 examples.

The second generation of the BMW M3 – not developed specifically for use in motor sport this time – was a much more understated affair. Unveiled in 1992, its six-cylinder engine developed 210 kW/286 hp from three-litre displacement and peak torque of 320 Newton metres (236 lb-ft). It also featured the innovative new camshaft control system VANOS. The new model set two world records – for the highest output per litre (97 hp/l) and the highest specific torque (108 Nm (80 lb-ft)/l) produced by a volume-produced naturally-aspirated engine.

An extensive facelift in 1995 saw the displacement of the six-cylinder in-line engine increased from 2,990 to 3,201cc, with output rising to 236 kW/321 hp. Added to which, the new engine also employed Double-VANOS, which brings fully variable camshaft control on both the intake and exhaust sides. In summer 1996 the BMW M3 became the first series-produced car to be offered with the option of an SMG automated manual gearbox.

Featuring an aluminium bonnet with powerdome, prominently flared wheel arches, an aerodynamically optimised boot lid with rear spoiler lip and four tailpipes exiting the dual-flow exhaust system, the third-generation BMW M3 unveiled in 2000 cut an extremely eye-catching figure once more. Power again came courtesy of a naturally-aspirated six-cylinder in-line engine. The completely newly developed unit developed output of 252 kW/343 hp from its 3,246 cc and peak torque of 365 Newton metres (269 lb-ft).

Instead of being equipped with a straight-six engine, like the two previous generations of the car, the fourth incarnation of the BMW M3 presented in 2007 was powered by a high-revving, naturally-aspirated V8 developing 309 kW/420 hp. Among the extensive intelligent lightweight design measures employed were the carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof fitted as standard and a front axle made almost entirely from aluminium.

The current (fifth) generation of the BMW M3 was introduced in spring 2014. In keeping with the change in nomenclature for BMW’s series-produced models, only the four-door sedan is badged “M3”, while the coupe and the convertible variants were given the model designation M4. In all three body variants, a free-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and 317 kW/431 hp provides the power. Rigorously applied intelligent lightweight design elements include the extensive use of lightweight materials such as CFRP and aluminium for many chassis and body components. All of which has shaved around 80 kilograms off the weight of its predecessor.

This summer, BMW M Division released an exclusive special-edition model – limited to 500 units worldwide – as a special tribute to the successful 30-year history of the BMW M3. With its Macao Blue metallic exterior paint finish, the BMW M3 “30 Jahre M3” harks back to the first generation of car, for which this colour shade was first offered. The Competition Package, which is included as standard and comprises extensive powertrain and suspension modifications, pushes the engine output of the anniversary model up by 14 kW/19 hp to 331 kW/450 hp.

Munich. With the launch of the first generation of the BMW M3 in 1986, the BMW M GmbH, at that time operating under the name BMW Motorsport GmbH, revolutionized the sporty mid-range segment. No other manufacturer had previously ever deployed genuine motorsports technology so consistently in order to transform a high-volume production model like the BMW 3 Series into a thoroughbred high-performance sports car that is also fully suitable for everyday use. The first BMW M3 set the standard by which other manufacturers were measured.

Meanwhile, BMW M has continuously refined its automotive icon across five model generations. And over all these years the BMW M3 has retained its original character. Probably no other automobile combines distinct racing genes and unrestricted day-to-day suitability into such a highly emotional overall concept. To mark the 30th anniversary of this automotive icon this summer, BMW M is launching the exclusive special edition of the BMW M3 “30 Years M3”, which is limited to 500 cars worldwide.

Edition “30 Years M3” in the legendary colour Macao Blue metallic.
As a tribute to the first generation of the BMW M3, the anniversary edition “30 Years M3” is painted in the exclusive exterior colour Macao Blue metallic, which once celebrated its premiere in BMW’s colour range as a special option for the first generation of the BMW M3.

The edition “30 Years M3” builds on the Competition Package, which is optionally available for the BMW M3 series production model. It comprises an increase in engine output by 14 kW/19 hp to 331 kW/450 hp (BMW M3 “30 Years M3”: combined fuel consumption: 8.8–8.3 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 204–194 g/km). Also included in the Competition Package is the Adaptive M suspension, which has been comprehensively aligned to the increased performance. Optimised features also include new springs, dampers and stabilisers, modified characteristic curves of the three modes Comfort, Sport and Sport+ as well as a correspondingly modified standard Active M differential on the rear axle and Dynamic Stability Control feature (DSC).

Moreover, the Competition Package of the edition model includes forged 20-inch M light-alloy wheels with 666 M star spoke design and mixed tyres (front: 265/30 R20, rear: 285/30 R20).

All of these measures lead to a noticeable increase in dynamic performance, which is not least also reflected in enhanced acceleration. The BMW M3 “30 Years M3” with optional 7-speed M double clutch transmission sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds, which is 0.1 seconds faster than the series production model. Even with the standard 6-speed manual transmission, the car completes this sprint 0.1 seconds faster than the production model. 

In terms of exterior design, the Competition Package also includes the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with enhanced features, including a black chrome tailpipe trim for the M sports exhaust system, the characteristic and potent sound of which contributes significantly towards the highly emotional driving experience. The edition model also features exclusively designed M gills in the front wings bearing the logo “30 Years M3”.

Sporty, functional interior with an exceptionally high-class ambience.
The Competition Package upgrades the interior of the edition “30 Years M3” with specific M sports seats in a skeletal design that combine perfect support with distinct travel comfort over long-distances. Seatbelts with woven-in BMW M strips also enhance the sporty interior ambience.

The logo “30 Years M3” on the front doorsills reminds both driver and front passenger of the BMW M company icon’s unique history. The wording “30 Years M3 1/500” on the carbon fibre interior trim strip of the instrument panel gives indication of the exclusiveness of the BMW M3 “30 Years M3”, which is limited to 500 cars worldwide. “30 Years M3” is embroidered into the front headrests.

The BMW M3 “30 Years M3” features an exclusive full leather Merino trim in Black/Silverstone with colour-matching contrast seams that effectively underscore the anniversary model’s sporty and sophisticated character.

Compared with the BMW M3 with Competition Package, the additional cost of the anniversary model is €10,000 in Germany. Market launch is scheduled for the summer of 2016 – this being exactly 30 years after the signing of the first contract for the purchase of a BMW M3. 

1986 – a 3 Series with flared arches and impressive power.
Around six months after BMW had stunned experts with the world premiere of the new BMW M3 at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in the autumn of 1985, the time had finally come: In the spring of 1986, the first automotive journalists were given the opportunity on the racetrack in Mugello to test the “3 Series supercar”, which looked extremely spectacular not just because of its distinctively flared wheel arches. The 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine featuring four-valve technology delivered 147 kW/200 hp. This power unit was an ideal match for the two-door car, which weighed in at only 1,200 kilograms thanks to lightweight construction – the front and rear bumpers, the side sills and the boot lid including spoiler as well as other features were made of plastic. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 235 km/h are still impressive figures even today. 

1988 saw the presentation of the Evo version of the BMW M3, which reached a top speed of 243 km/h thanks to a further enhanced power output of 220 hp. And in 1990, the highest upgrade version of the first model generation was launched to the market – the BMW M3 Sport Evolution, which had a 238 hp, 2.5-litre power unit under the bonnet and was limited to 600 cars.

Impressive proof of engineering skills in the development of the BMW M3 was delivered as early as in 1986 by the catalytic converter versions of the sports car. As the technicians had also given consideration to the use of exhaust gas purification technology right from the beginning of the development phase, each model version lost only 3 kW/5 hp in engine power as a result of being fitted with a catalyst; the effect on driving performance was only marginal.

1992 – from a thoroughbred racing car to an elegant coupe.
Unlike the predecessor, the second generation of the BMW M3, which celebrated its debut in 1992, had not been specifically developed for deployment in motor sports. The significantly more discreet and elegant coupe featured a three-litre, six-cylinder engine with 210 kW/286 hp and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. As a result, the power unit, which was fitted with innovative VANOS camshaft control technology, delivered impressive proof of top-notch engineering skills. With its litre performance (97 hp/l) and specific torque (108 Nm/l), it set two world records for high-volume, naturally aspirated engines. The BMW M3 Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in exactly six seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

The new BMW M3 stood out through the shape of its exterior mirrors. The aerodynamically optimized, double bridged mirror casings boasting a wing-shaped profile immediately distinguished the car from the series production versions of the BMW 3 Series Coupe. Even today, the distinctively shaped M exterior mirrors serve as one of the most characteristic identifying features of most M models.

In 1994, BMW M supplemented the BMW M3 range with two body variants at the same time. In addition to a convertible, the BMW M3 was also available for the first time as a four-door sedan. Customers were particularly pleased by the fact that the Sedan’s performance equalled that of the Coupe.

In 1995, within the framework of a comprehensive model upgrade, cubic capacity of the straight six-cylinder engine increased from 2,990 to 3,201 cubic centimeters and power output to 236 kW/321 hp. The new engine featured double VANOS, so in addition to a variably adjustable intake camshaft, it also had a synchronously operating exhaust camshaft. The result: In spite of increased power reserves and noticeably improved performance (e.g. 0–100 km/h in 5.5 seconds), the modified BMW M3 was extremely fuel-efficient.  

From the summer of 1996, the BMW M3 became the world’s first high-volume production car to feature an automated manual transmission. The function of the sequential M transmission was racing-oriented: To shift gears up, the driver pulled the shift lever back, and to shift gears down, he or she simply pushed it forward. The system was extremely popular with customers, with almost every second BMW M3 that rolled off the production line at the BMW Regensburg plant at that time being fitted with this SMG transmission. 

2000 – thoroughbred athlete with a self-confident appearance.
The third generation of the BMW M3 sported a bolder look than its predecessor. Thanks to the aluminium bonnet with power dome, the distinctly wider wheel arches, the aerodynamically optimized boot lid including rear spoiler lip as well as the four tailpipes of the dual-flow exhaust system, the Coupe left no room for doubt about its power reserves and dynamics. 

The car was also powered by a straight six-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine. The entirely redeveloped power unit delivered an output of 252 kW/343 hp from a displacement of 3,246 cubic centimetres and a maximum torque of 365 Nm. 5.2 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h and just 5.4 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fourth gear – these figures reflect this BMW M3’s performance potential. In the spring of 2001, just a few months after the Coupe, the Convertible made its debut, looking even more muscular with its low, concise waistline.

The BMW M3 CSL on sale from 2003 assumed an exceptional status. On this special model, which was consistently trimmed for lightweight construction – the abbreviation CSL has always been the term used by BMW for Coupe, Sport and Lightweight – an output of 265 kW/360 hp combined with an unladen weight of just 1,385 kilograms, which corresponds to a power-to-weight ratio of 3.85 kg/hp. The weight reduction was achieved not simply by omitting supposedly unnecessary (comfort-related) components, but through the principle of intelligent lightweight construction, i.e. by using the most suitable material in the right place. This included for example the roof made from carbon reinforced plastic (CRP) and the rear window fitted with thin glass. This paid off, as acceleration testifies: 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, 0–200 km/h in 16.8 seconds.

2007 – fourth generation with V8 engine and CRP roof as standard.
Instead of a straight six-cylinder engine featured by the two previous generations, the fourth edition of the BMW M3 had a naturally aspirated V8 engine under its bonnet. The high-revving, four-litre power unit delivered 309 kW/420 hp, weighed only 202 kilograms and was therefore 15 kg lighter than the previously deployed engine. Use of the intelligent lightweight construction concept was also further pursued in other areas. For instance, the BMW M3 Coupe featured as standard a CRP roof, the fibre structure of which remains visible beneath a clear coat. The front axle of the car was made almost entirely of aluminium.

The autumn of 2007 saw the market launch of the four-door version of the BMW M3, which sprinted from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and was therefore only a tenth of a second slower than the Coupe. The Convertible completed the model range just a few months later in the spring of 2008.

2014 – innovative engine technology and consistent lightweight construction.
With the launch of the fifth generation of their top athlete in the spring of 2014, the BMW M GmbH not only presented both the Sedan and the Coupe simultaneously for the first time, but also brought the model designation into line with the new nomenclature of the series models. Thus, the Sedan bears the name BMW M3, the Coupe BMW M4 – like the Convertible that has been available since the autumn of 2014. 

The entirely redeveloped straight six-cylinder engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology and a high-revving concept delivers a maximum output of
317 kW/431 hp and maximum torque of 550 Nm available across a broad engine speed range, thus exceeding the highest amount of torque offered by the previous BMW M3 by almost 40 percent. Fuel consumption and emissions are around 25 percent lower. Both the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Convertible complete the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (with optional 7-speed dual clutch transmission). 

In order to attain the highest level of driving dynamics coupled with exceptional fuel efficiency, vehicle weight (with standard equipment) was reduced by around 80 kilograms vs. the previous model. This again was made possible through the consistent implementation of intelligent lightweight construction measures. These include, among others, increased use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre reinforced plastic as well as aluminium for numerous suspension and body components.

  “Happy birthday, BMW M3” – friends and companions congratulate on the car’s 30th birthday.

“I will always have a very special connection to the BMW M3. My father used to drive a black BMW M3. I myself became DTM champion in 2012 driving a matt black BMW Bank M3. All BMW M3 production models have this very special racing character – similar to the new BMW M4. The BMW M GmbH has managed to bring a racetrack feel onto the road. It is not really easy to make such a powerful car so compact and roadworthy like BMW has done with the M3. The BMW M3 is sportiness in its purest form. And it will always stand out in my memories.”
Bruno Spengler, professional racing driver, competing for the BMW Team MTEK in the DTM 2016, DTM champion 2012 in a BMW M3 DTM

“The BMW M3 is a fascinating car – today just as it was 30 years ago. I myself drove the M3 of that time around the racetrack. And compared to our racing cars of today, it was really hard work behind the wheel. During my very first DTM year of 2013, I celebrated victory in a BMW M3 DTM of the modern era. That was a very special moment. And I think the BMW M3 is simply made for creating such special moments.”
Timo Glock, professional racing driver, competing for the BMW Team RMG in the DTM 2016, 91 Formula 1 Grand Prix races between 2004 and 2012

“For very many people – and for me, too – the BMW M3 is a synonym for success on the racetrack. Its motorsport genes were already evident in 1986 and still are to this very day. For me as a racing driver it feels great to also be able to drive such a sporty car off the racetrack. The BMW M3 a legend for good reason.”
Martin Tomczyk, professional racing driver, competing for the BMW Team Schnitzer in the DTM

“The BMW M3 is undoubtedly the most important car in my long career as a racing driver. With this car I won the World Touring Car Championship, the DTM title, the Italian Touring Car Championship and celebrated numerous racing victories all over Europe. From the very first day, the BMW M3 was a winner and it retained this position for decades. Fans love the BMW M3 – and I love it too!”
Roberto Ravaglia, ex professional racing driver, first touring car champion in history (1987), founder of the Team ROAL Motorsport

“The BMW M3 is a true icon. When the car made its racing debut in 1987, it was a winner right from the start, becoming the most successful touring car of all time. Driving this car was always a lot of fun. I experienced so many great moments and celebrated many victories with this car. I developed a really close bond with the BMW M3.”
Johnny Cecotto, ex professional racing driver, 1989 – 1992 10 DTM race victories in a BMW M3, 1990 winner of “24-hour race Spa” in a BMW M3, 1992 winner of “24-hour race on the Nürburgring” in a BMW M3, 1993 ADAC GT Cup winner in a BMW M3 GTR, twice World Motorcycle Champion (1975/1978)

“For me the BMW M3 is simply the best. I believe everybody immediately associates the BMW M3 with the BMW M GmbH, even more than the M1 and the M5. A major part of its fascination is undoubtedly the result of its motor racing career. After all, to this day, the BMW M3 is the world’s most successful touring car. I myself own four BMW M3s from different years, my favourite still being the BMW M3 of the first generation – and this is not only because classic BMWs are my passion, but because I personally think the car’s design is simply the best.”
Felipe Garcia, BMW enthusiast and collector, founder of Mint Classics in Münster, “Bavarian Sports Cars” dealer

Significant handling upgrades, power hike to 331 kW/450 hp and exclusive equipment features.

Munich. The BMW M3 Sedan, the BMW M4 Coupe and the BMW M4 Convertible demonstrate the perfect combination of high-performance sports car engineering with unrestricted everyday utility. From spring 2016, all three body styles will be available with a special Competition Package from BMW M GmbH that combines added sporty personality with enhanced dynamics. As well as extensive handling upgrades, the Competition Package also comes with exclusive equipment features and a14 kW/19 hp hike in power that takes output to 331 kW/450 hp (BMW M3/M4 Coupe: combined fuel consumption 8.8–8.3 l/100 km [32.1–34.0 mpg imp], combined CO2 emissions 204–194 g/km; BMW M4 Convertible: combined fuel consumption 9.1–8.7 l/100 km [31.0–32.5 mpg imp], combined CO2 emissions 213–203 g/km)*.

The extra power also means improved performance. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe with optional 7-speed M Double Clutch transmission sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.0 seconds (without Competition Package: 4.1 s), while the BMW M4 Convertible reaches the same speed in 4.3 seconds (without Competition Package: 4.4 s). The sprint time for models with the standard 6-speed manual transmission is likewise 0.1 seconds faster in all cases than without the package.

The Competition Package also includes Adaptive M Suspension, which has been extensively tuned to the enhanced performance and handling, and which features new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars, along with reconfigured driving modes (Comfort, Sport and Sport+). The standard Active M Differential on the rear axle and DSC Dynamic Stability Control have likewise been configured to match the upgraded dynamics. Exclusive forged, machine-polished, weight- and rigidity-optimised 20-inch M alloy wheels – front 9J × 20; rear 10 J × 20 – with exclusive multi-spoke 666 M styling and mixed tyres (front: 265/30 R20, rear: 285/30 R20) complete the list of chassis upgrades.

For the BMW M3 and BMW M4 Coupe, the Competition Package includes special lightweight M sports seats that combine perfect support under extremely hard driving with exceptional comfort on long journeys. Seatbelts with woven-in BMW M stripes cap off an extremely sporty interior ambience.

Eye-catching exterior highlights of the Competition Package include the M sports exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes. Even more than its good looks, the most distinctive feature of the M sports exhaust system is its potent sound, which brings added emotional resonance to the driving experience. The starting rumble and the distinctive burble on overrun never fail to get under the skin of dedicated drivers time and again.

The Competition Package for the BMW M3 and BMW M4 is topped off by extended BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim. The high-gloss Black finish has been applied not only to the side window trim, window recess finishers and exterior mirror frames and bases, but also to the BMW kidney grille, the side gills and the model badge on the tail.