BMW has just released pricing and availability details for its new V8-powered M3. The new car is being heralded as the most powerful road-going M3 ever produced by the Munich-based automaker, capable of completing 0-62mph stints in 4.8 seconds and topping out at an electronically-limited 155mph.
First things first: though we've
previously reported details concerning the new M3, it's important to reiterate just how technologically advanced the new car is over the model it will soon replace. While the latest M3 coupé's engine has increased in displacement, cylinder count and power output, the new car's powerplant is lighter than the previous M3's six-cylinder unit.
BMW's new Efficient Dynamics programme applied to the lightweight engine components translates to the 4-litre V8 engine weighing a full 15kg less than the previous 3.2-litre six-cylinder. An induction system with eight individual throttle butterflies and double-VANOS variable valve technology is claimed to further enhance performance from the new power source, all while returning a reasonable 22.8mpg fuel economy figure on the Combined Cycle - an eight per cent improvement over the outgoing car.
Now that the juicy bits have been suitably outlined, interested buyers will be delighted to know that we weren't too far off when we speculated the price for the new model to be in the £50k range. In fact, the new M3 coupé will be available from £50,625 when it goes on sale in the UK in September 2007.
Eric Gallina - 25 Apr 2007