M3 Blog

The Key Things to Know about the BMW M3

The BMW M3 has been recognized as a powerhouse since its introduction several decades ago. The current car was reintroduced back in 2015 and has remained largely unchanged since then, as there’s little reason to mess with something so close to perfection. What does the BMW M3 actually offer in the way of features, though? Let’s explore the vehicle.

Engine and Drivetrain

One thing that most buyers will notice is that the M3 uses an inline six-cylinder engine rather than a V8 like many other European supercars. There are several reasons for this. One is that the six-cylinder is actually quite a bit lighter than the V8 that powered the previous version of the M3. Every bit of weight lost adds power and performance. Second, you’ll find that the 425 horsepower that the six-cylinder produces is not only respectable but is enough to get the car up to 60 MPH from a standing start in just four seconds, which is in line with most cars in the segment. However, unlike previous iterations, you only have this single-engine option available to you.

Seating

The M3 is designed to seat five people, with two in the front and (ostensibly) three in the rear. However, like many other sedans produced by the automaker, the middle seat is not all that well suited to human occupancy and the passengers on the left and right will be grateful if you leave it empty so they can have a bit of legroom.

Drivetrain

The M3 uses a rear-drive format. However, you do have the option of choosing your transmission. You could go with the six-speed manual transmission, or upgrade to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic if you like. While the manual offers a more visceral feel to the driving experience, there’s something about the advanced design of the automatic that also satisfies.

Weight Savings

Over the previous generation, the current design of the M3 offers weight savings of around 80 kg (177 lbs.). That’s all due to smart weight-saving techniques, the choice of alternative materials, and unique design processes that allowed the engineers to carve away fat without cutting into the vehicle’s stability or strength. In fact, while lighter, the M3 is actually structurally stronger than it was previously. That weight savings also translates into 25% better fuel economy, allowing the M3 to be both a supercar and a fuel-sipper. That’s a win-win for everyone.

The Best of BMW Engineering

The M3 is a stunningly beautiful car that embodies the best of BMW’s engineering prowess, modern technology, and features direct ties to the brand’s heritage. While it might only be offered as a sedan currently, it’s no slouch when it comes to taking on the challenges that the road might throw your way. With 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, this is a road-eating machine that offers sublime handling around curves.

If you’re ready to experience the M3 for yourself, we invite you to contact us at Lou Bachrodt BMW.

A Brief Look at the BMW M3: Performance, Power, and Precision Engineering

The BMW M3 has been a legendary performer since it was first introduced back in the 1980s. Then, it was the supercharged version of the E30 3-series, which is no longer in production. Today, the M3 is the brawnier sibling of the 3-series. What should you know about the car? We’ll explore the legend crafted in sheet metal below.

What Body Styles Are Available?

While the M3 has been offered in more than one body style during its lifetime, the current offering is only available as a sedan (although BMW nomenclature actually classifies it as a coupe). What Americans know as a coupe (a two-door car) and the convertible version of the M3 are actually M4s now.

What’s the Powertrain Like?

Unlike standard BMW cars (the aforementioned 3-series, for instance), the M3 is only available with a single engine and transmission. For your money, you get a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. It puts out a substantial 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, giving it the ability to melt asphalt from a standing start. With that being said, you can up the horsepower even more (with the same engine), by opting for the Competition package when you buy the car. With this package, you’ll see 0 to 60 MPH times of four seconds flat. While there are faster cars on the market in the class, they only beat it by fractions of a second.

Where Does the M3 Excel?

While you would be correct in assuming that the M3 does very well in terms of raw power, performance, and speed, where it really excels is in handling curves at speed. Take it down a twisting, turning road with the throttle opened up and you’ll find exactly what BMW intended to achieve with this particular design. Shift into any of the driving modes and you’ll find the ride quality outstanding and the handling superb.

What Does the Interior Look Like?

Inside, the cabin is identical to the 3-series sedan. That makes sense since the M3 is just the 3-series amped up to be brawnier, with a few stylistic embellishments. All the controls you need as a driver are within easy reach and the car offers three unique trim options – real wood, metal, or carbon fiber. The iDrive interface is also within easy reach and offers access to one of the best-designed systems in the world. You can also enjoy whatever music might be your preference through the high-end Harman Kardon audio system.

What about Safety Features?

There are plenty of safety features baked into the M3. For instance, you’ll find automatic high-beams, emergency braking assistance, lane departure assistance, and more. However, many safety features are not standard equipment and must be added either as standalones or through the addition of a specific accessory package.

BMW M3: Your Dream Car is Waiting

Ready to experience the power and precision engineering of the BMW M3 for yourself? You'll fall in love with its power, speed and performance, not to mention its style and safety features. Visit us at Lou Bachrodt BMW to schedule a test drive.