2012 BMW M3 Coupe

Basic Specs

Base Price $58,900
Drivetrain Rear Wheel Drive
Curb Weight (lbs) 3706
City (MPG) 14
Hwy (MPG) 20
Horsepower 414@8300
Torque (lb-ft) 295@3900
Wheelbase 108.7
Length (in.) 181.8
Width (in.) 77.8
Height (in.) 55.6

Hailed by some critics as the best-rounded cars currently in production, the BMW M3 convertible and coupe feature razor-sharp handling, a tuneful powerplant and a surprisingly practical interior with fully functional rear seats.

The cars boast a high-revving powerplant like the M3s of previous years, but this time the motor is a V8. It also features tuned suspension, a six-speed manual transmission, a carbon fiber roof, and all the exterior modifications typical of an "M" car.

The M3's V8 powerplant has two more cylinders than its predecessor, delivering 414 horsepower from 4.0 litters and maximum torque of 295 pound-feet at 3,900 rpm. In keeping with BMW 's high-revving "M" tradition, maximum engine speed is 8,300 rpm. The engine is the lightest V8 in the world, weighing less than the previous M3's inline-six.

Reminiscent of the carbon fiber roof panel used on the M6 coupe, the M3's CFRP roof cuts unnecessary weight, and lowers the car's center of gravity. It also lets the roof edge appear flatter and thus lowers the perceived body height.

The production M3 is pictured with 18-inch wheels, though BMW is also expected to offer 19-inch alloys similar to the Y-spoke ones featured on the M3 concept.

Pricing
Pricing starts at $58,400. Compared to the previous-generation M3 Coupe, the new two-door is around $8,000 more expensive. Of course, it packs a whole lot more punch, too.

A premium package, priced at $1,900, offers power folding mirrors, universal garage opener, digital compass mirror, BMW Assist, Novillo Leather interior and choice of three optional interior trims.

The technology package includes EDC, M Drive, Comfort Access, and a navigation system -- all for $3250.

19" wheels are $1200, Electronic Damping Control is $1000, and Extended Novillo Leather can be had for $2000 as a standalone option or $1000 with the premium package. Enhanced premium sound is $1900.

Buyers seeking an open-air experience can opt to delete the car's standard carbon fiber roof and replace it with a regular steel top and integrated glass moonroof.

Key Competitors
The M3's closest competitors are the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe and Cadillac CTS-V Coupe, both of which make far more power but can't quite match the BMW's handling prowess.

Similar Cars

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    • General
    • Body Style:Coupe
    • Size:Compact
    • Market Segment:Near-Luxury, Performance
    • Weight:3706 lbs
    • Exterior
    • Length:181.8 in.
    • Width:77.8 in.
    • Height:55.6 in.
    • Wheelbase:108.7 in.
    • Ground Clearance:TBD
    • Front Track:60.5 in.
    • Rear Track:60.5 in.
    • Weight Distribution:51.2/48.8
    • Drag Coefficient:0.31
    • Interior - General
    • Seats:4
    • Passenger Volume:89.0 cu. ft.
    • Cargo Volume:11.0 cu. ft.
    • Cargo Volume (Seats Folded):TBD
    • Interior - Front Row
    • Volume:TBD
    • Leg Room:41.8 in.
    • Head Room:38.2 in.
    • Shoulder Room:55.3 in.
    • Hip Room:TBD
    • Interior - Second Row
    • Volume:TBD
    • Leg Room:33.7 in.
    • Head Room:36.8 in.
    • Shoulder Room:51.7 in.
    • Hip Room:TBD
    • Propulsion
    • Fuel Type:Gas
    • Engine Type:4.0L V8
    • Power:414 hp @ 8300 rpm
    • Torque:295 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
    • Transmission:6-Speed Manual
    • Highway Fuel Economy:20 mpg
    • City Fuel Economy:14 mpg
    • Forced Induction:None
    • Direct Injection:No
    • Chassis
    • Layout:Rear Wheel Drive
    • Front Suspension:Strut-Type
    • Rear Suspension:Multi-Link
    • Wheels
    • Front:18" Aluminum
    • Front Tires:245/40 ZR18
    • Rear:18" Aluminum
    • Rear Tires:265/40 ZR18
    • Trailering & Hauling
    • Trailer Weight:TBD
    • Payload:
    • Tongue Weight:TBD

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