Today the BMW M3 and M4 have officially been revealed; creating hype for what could be two of the most important vehicles of 2014. So here’s what you need to know:
CARBON FIBER CONSTRUCTION:
The new M3/4 utilises extensive Carbon Fibre in its construction, making use of a CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic) drive shaft. The use of carbon fibre results in an approximately 40% weight saving over previous M3. Both the M3 and M4 will benefit from a CFRP roof, whilst the M4 will benefit from a CFRP boot lid. A CFRP front strut brace is standard on both (weighs just 1.5 kg).
TRANSMISSION:
he M3/4 will be available with a standard 6 speed manual transmission and an optional 7 speed M DCT (double clutch transmission) with launch control. Both models feature an active M Differential (with constantly variable locking a la M5/M6).
SUSPENSION / CHASSIS:
The M3/4 features a new aluminium suspension setup, with an optional Adaptive M suspension (with Comfort, Sport, Sport+ modes) available.
WHEELS / BRAKES:
Lightweight 18-inch alloys are standard on the M3/4, housing M compound brakes as standard (in blue). M carbon ceramic brakes are optional (in gold).
| Specifications: | ||
| BMW M3 (F80) | BMW M4 (F82) | |
| Weight: | 1520Kg (1560) | 1497Kg (1537) |
| Weight Distribution (Front:Rear): | 50:50 | 50:50 |
| Configuration & No. of Cylinders: | Inline 6 | Inline 6 |
| Aspiration: | Twin mono-scroll turbochargers | Twin mono-scroll turbochargers |
| Power: | 317kW @ 5500-7300 RPM | 317kW @ 5500-7300 RPM |
| Torque: | 550Nm @ 1850-5500 RPM | 550Nm @ 1850-5500 RPM |
| 0-100km/h time: | 4.3 seconds (4.1) | 4.3 seconds (4.1) |
| Top Speed: | 250km/h Limited (280 unlimited) | 250km/h Limited (280 unlimited) |
| Combined Fuel Consumption: | 8.8l/100km (8.3) | 8.8l/100km (8.3) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: | 60 Litres | 60 Litres |
| Front tyre dimensions: | 255/40 18 | 255/40 18 |
| Rear tyre dimensions: | 275/40 18 | 275/40 18 |
| Length: | 4671mm | 4671mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2812mm | 2812mm |
| Width (Including Mirrors): | 2037mm | 2014mm |
| Height: | 1430mm | 1383mm |
| (Figures in brackets represent values with 7-speed M DCT transmission) | ||
See the launch videos below from BMW to see the M3 and M4 in action, and then start begging Santa for a new M3 or M4 under the Christmas tree:
BMW M3:
BMW M4:
Full image gallery:
[imagebrowser id=78]
