Following a report from late last year, more details have emerged on BMW ’s forthcoming M-fettled 1-Series coupe. European sales of the M-spec 1-Series are expected to kick off in mid-2011, with United States sales to begin around the same time.
It was originally believed the M 1-Series would use a version of the current 135i’s twin-turbo inline-six, but the latest report from Autocar suggests the high-performance two-door will use a version of BMW’s latest six-cylinder engine set to launch in the 535i GT.
In 535i GT guise, BMW ’s new 3.0L uses a single turbocharger, but will adopt a twin-turbo setup in the M version of the 1-Series. Under the hood of the 1-Series the new engine is expected to develop 350 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque – the latter figure 15 lb-ft more than the current M3.
Power will be sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and an electronically controlled differential. Initial reports suggest the M version of the 1-Series will accelerate from 0-60 in 5.5 seconds, but we wouldn’t be shocked to see that figure dip into the high-4s by the time it makes production.
Despite its added performance, the M-spec 1-Series won’t carry a penalty at the pump. Fuel saving technology such as automatic start-stop should ensure a highway rating near 30mpg.
As for the name, BMW is still deciding what to name the performance coupe. The M1 moniker falls in line with BMW’s current naming scheme, but also impedes on the supercar of the same name from the late 1970s. Instead, look for the car to be called the 1-Series M.
