Archive for the ‘M3’ Category

BMW M3 drifting: how to drift

Drifting in a BMW M3 Ben Barry teaches Phil McNamara how to drift

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The BMW M3 - Style and Sophistication

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The BMW M3 has an illustrious, rich, and long lineage since its inception back in 1986 to presently, it has included many distinct concepts and design of cars, and many distinct names from the original E30 M3 to the current M3 2008. This is the forth generation of the M3 cars, it is designed and manufactured by BMW M GmbH aiming to breathe futuristic life into a new addition to a long family tree, with general high performance, comfort and safety. The car was launched in 2007 with exceptional special features, supreme design concepts, and a lot of technological gadgets. Its foundations are based strongly on the 3 series Coupe, and is set to carry on the legacy of both motorsport racing and on the road driving. The M3 2008 has a very unique, superior character with excellent driving advancements that will make it a contender in the market and on the racetrack.

BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan

bmw M3

BMW will finally introduce two of its important creations at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show—the 2008 M3 Coupe and Sedan. These two new models from the Munich-based automaker are expected to raise performance benchmark in its class.

The 4th generation 2008 M3 Coupe together with the all-new 4 door M3 sedan are scheduled to hit dealerships in the spring of 2008. These two new offerings from BMW will feature a high revving V8 engine that produces 414 horsepower at 8,300 rpm. Such power and performance is the very first offered in the series-production BMW M3 and the highest performing M3 ever offered by the M division of BMW.

BMW M3 - Quality and Comfort

bmw M3

When it comes to cars, the consuming public is one that holds its brands to a high level of expectation. And when we find a brand that we like - one that gives us the quality and dependability that we desire - we will remain loyal to that brand until the end. In most cases, this level of loyalty is extended to luxury vehicles - those cars that command a high price but continually deliver in quality and comfort year after year - and sometimes decade after decade. It’s no wonder then that the BMW M3 - as a part of the BMW brand - continues to inspire and engage customers.

BMW M3 - Ahead of the pack

bmw M3

The BMW M3 has always been an iconic road car, that offers high performance and handling, all wrapped up in the subtle body shell of the BMW 3 series. With the launch of the very latest M3, known as the E90, BMW is hoping to further strengthen the reputation of this well known brand.

The original BMW M3, called the E30, was launched way back in 1986 and really set the standard by which all other sports saloons would be judged. This first model had a 2.3 litre 4 cylinder engine, however to keep pace with its other German rivals, in the shape of Audi and Mercedes Benz, engine capacity has steadily increased leading to the all new 4 litre V8 that is found in the E90.

bmw M3
G-POWER, a German automotive tuner exclusively for BMW models is adding up a new item on their lineup of tuned up models. G-POWER applied their engineering and design skills to the BMW M3.

The main highlight of the G-POWER BMW M3 E46 CSL is the new power plant installed on the vehicle. G-POWER replaces the original six-cylinder in-line engine that pumps out 360 hp and 370 Nm of torque. The G-POWER BMW M3 E46 CSL now comes with a monstrous V10 engine capable of pumping out elicits 550 hp and pulls out 580 Nm amount of peak during acceleration. With this is engine, the G-POWER BMW M3 E46 CSL can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds and can reach an electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h. According to G-POWER this engine “surpasses even those more powerful engines from Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen or Maranello, Italy: 335 km/h is a quantum leap versus the 285 of the original M3 CSL!”

In addition, G-POWER also announced that it will install the new V10 engine on other BMW models like the 3 Series Coupé, Z4, X5, and the new M3. The German auto tuner is also developing a new bi compressor kit for V10 the engine to boost its performance. With this bi-compressor kit, G-POWER targets more output for the V10 engine up to 640 hp, or even 750 hp. G-POWER worked in conjunction with KW automotive to provide the BMW M3 E46 CSL with a high performance suspension system. G-POWER and KW automotive made the suspension system to adapt in the car’s performance, suitable for racing conditions. This model also comes with the standard powerful BMW brakes to stop the car during emergency situations.

Now for the appearance package, G-POWER gives the BMW M3 CSL with its exclusive and the latest wheel designs called the G-POWER SILVERSTONE DIAMOND. This wheel comes in a concave rim design exclusively made for the G-POWER BMW M3 E46 CSL. Available in several diameters, 18, 19, 20, and 21 inches, the G-POWER SILVERSTONE DIAMOND’s unique 10 double spoke design showcase an aggressive stance as well as elegant appeal. Using the advanced technology of surface coating, dust and other dirt particles cannot stick into the G-POWER SILVERSTONE DIAMOND wheel.

G-POWER also added, “This wheel already more than satisfies the exacting safety requirements imposed by Bavarian manufacturers. They feature BMW stipulated run-flat capabilities in conjunction with approved tires! Furthermore, they are lighter in weight than the BMW factory M–wheels. The reduced unsprung weight has a noticable positive impact on comfort, even in conjunction with ultra low profile tires.”

G-POWER did not release the availability and the manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) for this exclusive model.


By: BMW USA Blog

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How To Stop Fantasizing About The BMW M3Sedan

Yes, I know exactly how you feel. When I first saw the TV commercial for the BMW M3, I was totally blown away. My heart was really racing as the announcer says, “Eight thousand four hundred revolutions per minute. The first ever production V8 BMW M3”. That was the most exciting 32 seconds of automotive promotion that I’ve seen in a long time. No wonder there has been 194,234 views of that commercial on YouTube as of April 2008.

As you know, BMW owners are fanatics. And I mean that in a good way.

BMW M GmbH, the motorsports arm of the company, has created the 414 Horsepower V8 high performance production M3. You may not be aware of this, but the M3 sports sedan concept was introduced to the American market in 1988. And since that time it has been nothing but a mutual love affair. Truly it has become one of the greatest fantasies for BMW enthusiasts. Myself included.

See if you don’t agree that this fourth generation BMW M3 has one of the car industry’s most remarkable engines. Not only is it a V8, but it also has more power, less weight and more efficiency than the previous M3 engine that was only 6 cylinders. In addition, your little heart will jump for joy when you hear that this new production V8 gives you 15% increase in power and at the same time you get an 8% improvement in fuel economy. All I can say is WOW.

All these numbers just make my head confused. I only use them to impress my wife as an excuse for me wanting one of these powerful babies. The fact is, I could really care less about the technical “specs” of my fantasy BMW M3. All I want to know is———

How is it going to make me feel when I put the “petal to the metal”?

All of you guys and gals out there who share my fantasy for the BMW M3 understand that it’s all about the feeling. And as the old saying goes about people who do not own a BMW, “If I have to explain it to you, you just won’t understand”. But that’s OK. This only means more excitement for you and me.

Tell me the truth. You feel the same way, don’t you?

In closing let me share with you a few “little known” facts about why all BMWs are so inspiring. Each model is designed with the ability to be recycled at the end of their useful life. In fact, BMW has a separate plant just to “recycle” as much material as possible from cars no longer in service. This helps not only the environment but also the consumer by keeping the new car prices as low as possible.

And one last tid bit for you. Expect to see in the future the coming of hydrogen-powered models. It’s not a matter of “if”, but a matter of when.

So, go feed your fantasy. I promise I won’t tell anyone.

Check out the first ever production BMW M3 and feel the thrill.

Chet Waters is the BMW Specialist. Learn How To Find Your BMW And At The Price You Can Afford. Go To:

http://www.bmwsauctions.com


By: BMW USA Blog

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One can always count on BMW to surprise everyone with a brand new concept for its new sports car models for each year. The 2009 M3 is certainly no exception to the rule. You will find that this new vehicle features power and performance that far exceeds that of its predecessors. The car has a 414 bhp V8 engine which gives it enough power to maintain ultimate performance at all times. The exterior design of this model, as you can expect from BMW, is one of their most eye-catching designs to date.

One factor that truly sets the new 2009 M3 sports car apart from its predecessors is that it has a V8. As a matter of fact, this will be the first BMW M3 ever to have an eight cylinder engine. This can be seen as somewhat of a risk on behalf of BMW as the straight 6 engine that they usually use has won them the Engine of the Year award twice in the past. Nevertheless, the fact that this new model features a V8 is one of the more exciting features. This powerful engine will be able to rev up to 8400 rpm of power and performance.

The new B.M.W M3 sports car also features an exterior design that was developed from the start to give the vehicle a unique and sporty look. The designers of this vehicle have been careful not to put form over function, and as such they designed it to be the perfect match between technology and sporting design. There are interesting details throughout the car that contribute to its interesting aesthetic value. For example, the aluminum engine compartment opens up to reveal an attractive power dome. The contours of the power dome possess air intakes which follow the forward pointing direction of the engine compartment lid. This gives it a front design which is longer than is predecessors.

Another great thing about the 2009 B.M.W M3 sports car is the tailor made interior. The car has been designed so that the driver is in complete control of everything for a driving experience that is unmatched. The car in many ways has been redesigned from the ground up in order to give the driver more control. The cockpit of the new vehicle features double circular instruments with white and red colours. It also features a newly designed center console.

The driver of the new Coupe is able to configure several attributes of the vehicle to his or her liking. This way, the driver can adjust the cars performance to a style that best suits his or her preferences. Dynamic Stability Control may be disengaged at any time the driver wishes and the Electronic Damper Control may be put on three different settings as the driver chooses. Another new feature of the car is its MDrive configuration which gives the driver more control over the power steering. As you can see, this 2009 BMW gives the world of motor vehicles something to be excited about.


By: BMW USA Blog

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Refinement is a word that best describes the 2008 BMW M3. Turn on the ignition and the engine is quiet, almost too quiet. Sure it delivers a lot more power than the previous version but it comes in a package that makes for a great daily driver.

Push this car hard through a turn and you’ll feel safe knowing where the wheels are going. The car is a beast but unlike your average sports car, it’s a beast with manners. And should you get yourself in trouble, you can mash on the brakes and those massive rotors will get you out of it.

Instead of just raw power, the people at BMW decided to add precision, feedback and response. Approximately 80 percent of the parts in the new M3 are new. Highlights include a carbon fiber roof (a first for a production car), a suspension largely constructed of aluminum, and an aluminum hood/plastic front fenders.

The engine is a V-8 that weighs 33 pounds less than the previous generation’s straight six. It’s also a much higher revving engine. The experience is somewhat similar to the VTEC Honda sports coupe but with a lot more oomph.

The power-plant is constructed from aluminum silicon. In using this method, heavy steel liners can be discarded. The crankshaft weighs in at a feathery 44 pounds. Peak power comes once you hit the 8,000+ RPM range. The designers claim that a high revving engine makes for better control of the rear wheels.

Like its bigger sibling, the M3 can be tuned by the driver. The throttle sensitivity, shock rates, and stability control can be modified from the dashboard.

During a casual test, I found the normal mode to provide the best lap times. Control was neutral and easy to manage even during tight situations. The steering felt a bit disconnected at times. That’s due to a bit of electronic over engineering on the engineers part and the thick design of the steering wheel. There was also a tendency for a bit of understeer when the car was pushed to its limits on during private track time.

During extended testing, the brakes had a tendency to fade even when competition grade pads were installed. The manual transmission felt precise but the shift throws were a bit longer than I’d like.

In everyday use, the new M3 offers practicality. The M3 has great everyday road manners and the trunk space is plenty adequate. An energy recovery system is used to help power the electrics. The power comes from the energy released during braking.

This machine has evolved into something that’s approaching the performance of a 911 class car. It might look mild mannered but it delivers world class results. If you want a car that truly challenges your race driving skills, this is not the car for you. This is the kind of car that gives controlled feedback to the driver and even makes less skilled drivers look good.

But if I had to split hairs, this car doesn’t have the overall refinement of a true 911. The performance numbers are great but the overall driver feedback can feel a bit dead at times. People used to driving a Honda Accord will love this. More experienced drivers will expect a more tactile experience.


By: BMW USA Blog

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The BMW M3, the Munich-based automaker’s sports version of the popular BMW 3-Series compact luxury car will have something new under its sleek hood. BMW Group has recently launched the details of its new V8 engine for the M3 2-door sports coupe and convertible models.

The new 3.2-liter straight six V8 engine features 8-cylinders, which is the first time for the BMW M3 models. With more cylinders and a larger displacement capacity, this new engine for BMW M3 offers an excellent and powerful performance at 430 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. amount of peak torque, marking its sports car characteristics. Although the new V8 offers a powerful vehicle performance, the engine also offers lower exhaust emissions just like the sports car’s competitor, the Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG that also features cleaner emissions on its Mercedes Benz exhaust. In fact, the new V8 engine complies with the most stringent EURO 4 emissions standard, and earns the LEV II (low emission vehicle) certification.

The new BMW M3 V8 achieved this low exhaust emission certification because of the engine’s powertrain technology like the variable double-VANOS camshaft management, fuel injection system, and the brake energy regeneration that enhances the BMW M3 V8 engine’s efficiency and driving dynamics.

Meanwhile, here are the complete engine specifications from a BMW official press release of the new BMW M3 V8:

- First eight-cylinder for the BMW M3 sports car.

- Supreme performance ensured by 309 kW/420 hp from 4.0 litres.

- Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres (295 lb-ft) at 3, 900 rpm, 85 per cent of maximum torque over a speed range of 6,500 rpm.

- Unique thrust and muscle ensured by consistent implementation of the M high-speed engine concept, maximum engine speed 8,300 rpm.

- Consistent lightweight construction of engine and ancillary units, new V8 power unit one of the lightest eight-cylinders in the world, lighter than the straight-six power unit in the former model.

- Variable camshaft control, low-pressure double-VANOS for an optimum charge cycle, system offering full power and performance even with normal engine oil pressure.

- Eight individual throttle butterflies for spontaneous engine response.

- Consistent and reliable oil supply with longitudinal and lateral acceleration up to 1.4 g ensured by two oil pumps and wet sump oil lubrication optimised for supreme dynamic behaviour.

- Exhaust system optimising cylinder charge, optimised for weight and function by means of internal high-pressure remoulding, exhaust emissions fulfil EU4 and LEV 2 standards.

- Upgraded MSS60 engine control unit for optimum coordination of all engine functions with the various control systems in the car.

- Ion flow technology recognising and distinguishing engine knocking phenomena as well as misfiring and miscombustion by measurement of ion flow in the combustion chambers.

- Brake Energy Regeneration with intelligent alternator control.


By: BMW USA Blog

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