Unlike past generations of the iconic sports car, the 2007 BMW M3 coupe will receive an entirely unique body design, according to a report in Germany’s AutoBild magazine. In recent months, the magazine has stood by its computer rendering of the car (shown right – click to zoom), despite consistent indications that the new 3-Series coupe would feature a less radical design. It now appears that while the 3-Series coupe and convertible will not stray too far from their sedan and wagon counterparts, the M3 will take on a much more aggressive and upscale appearance. Traditionally, the M3 has used what is essentially a lowered 3-Series body with relatively minor visual distinctions. The new M3, expected as either a 2007 or 2008 model, will feature an new V8 engine derived directly from the company’s new V10 engine from the M5 and BMW M6 performance cars. Output is expected as high as 425 horsepower. Meanwhile, Audi is said to be readying its own answer to the M3 — the RS5 coupe. The car will likely use the same engine as the RS4, with output boosted to around 450 horsepower. AutoBild has posted a new RS5 computer rendering, which is clearly a derivative of the forthcoming Nuvolari-inspired A5 coupe.
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12/23, 8:23 PM
posted by:
John Capozzi
…Traditionally, the M3 has simply used a lowered 3-Series body with added cladding and other minor visual upgrades…
Actually, the E36 M3 (93-99) was the only version of the three previous models that did NOT have unique body panels, and made do with different bumper covers and side skirts.
The E30 and E46 M3s had substantially different fenders and quarter panels than the mundane 3-Series coupe, along with M3 specific front and rear fascias and side skirting. The E46 M3 had a different hood as well.
So the E90 M3 is simply continuing the tradition that was skipped for the second generation.
12/23, 10:32 PM
posted by:
jwon
the previous poster is right, despire the subtle visual cues, the changes are substantial. If you count all the body pannels that differ on the E46 only the doors and the roof (I’m guessing) are retained from the non M counterparts. Its funny, the pannels look the same but are slighly different. I guess this really is the point of the M design anyway. I would like the E90 M to look similar to the non M counterparts.
12/23, 11:32 PM
posted by:
Garris
Interesting to read they are looking for a more “upscale” appearance. If they’re going to ask likely 60-70K for this, some appearance upgrade is going to be needed.
That’s the problem (in my mind) with the current RS4. I’d certainly balk at paying near M5 money for what looks (to most people) little different from your neighbor’s 28K leased A4.
Another question this brings up is will there be an M3 sedan, and if so, what will it look like?
06/21, 9:11 PM
posted by:
wmledouw
wmledouw
wmledouw
06/21, 9:12 PM
posted by:
pviodmar
pviodmar
pviodmar