The automotive press has long reported BMW ’s not-so-secret plans to rival the Mercedes SL-Class with a high-performance luxury successor to its Z8 roadster. But another successor to an equally iconic BMW may also be in the works — an “M10″ design to follow in the footsteps of the M1 supercar.
Powered by an up-rated version of the company’s popular 5.0 liter V10 engine, the M10 would take on the Audi R8 and Porsche 911, according to Germany’s Auto Zeitung.
BMW reportedly considered using a mid-engine layout, but instead elected to stick with what it knows best: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive. So far, development has been handled exclusively by BMW’s M division, the report says.
One key distinction between the M10 and Z9 projects is weight. While the Z9 will focus on luxury and feature a folding metal roof, the M10 will come with a fixed roof only, with low weight being the focus of the program. According to the sources, the M10 will weigh under 3000 pounds thanks to exotic materials like carbon fiber and magnesium.
Styling is said to be inspired by the BMW CS Concept, which offers a glimpse of the automaker’s future design direction. Whether the CS four-door-coupe will see production itself remains a mystery. Auto Bild recently reported series production of the CS is unlikely.
