The new BMW M3.

Page 2 - Description in Brief. Page 4 - Turning Powerful Passion into
Supreme Performance:The new BMW M3. Page 18 -Specifications BMW M3
Coupé. Page 19 -Output and Torque Diagram. Brand-new in
technology and design. Within the BMW M GmbH model range, the BMW M3
has always been that very special model living up in full to its
motorsport heritage. Indeed, this already applied to the very first BMW
M3 launched in 1986 and continued throughout the two subsequent model
generations. And now this supremacy comes out once again most clearly
in the 2007 version of the BMW M3. Although the latest generation of
the BMW M3 was based in its development on the new BMW M3 Coupé,
the new high-performance model differs from the "regular"
coupé in terms of both looks and technical features. Apart from
the car's unique design as well as its drivetrain and suspension
technology conceived from the start for supreme performance,
lightweight technology came right at the top in the brief given to the
engineers at BMW M. And just how consistently this development target
has been translated into reality in terms of intelligent lightweight
engineering is borne out by the car's power-to-weight ratio of only 3.8
kg (8.4 lb) per horsepower. One of the reasons for this low weight is
that the new BMW M3 is the first production car in its segment to boast
a roof made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP). And in all, the
new BMW M3, with the exception of just a few components, is indeed
completely new in its engineering and design concept, clearly
reflecting the successful tradition of BMW M GmbH. Apart from the
load-bearing structure of the car, only the two doors, the bootlid, the
windows, the headlights and rear lights have been carried over from the
3 Series Coupé. All other body components, by contrast, were
specially developed for the new BMW M3. The unique character of the
new BMW M3 is obvious at first sight: Over and above the engine
compartment lid with its striking powerdome and the two air intake
openings, the function-oriented design of the front and rear air dams,
the so-called gills in the front side panels, the side-sills also in
distinctive design, the roof made of clearly visible carbon fibre, as
well as the exterior mirrors and light-alloy wheels in BMW M design
clearly characterise the new model from the ground up. The exterior, in
turn, through its athletic and aesthetic appearance, powerfully
underlines the sporting qualities of the car. The exterior paintwork
likewise adds an individual touch, offering the connoisseur not only
numerous additional colours, but also four special paintwork options
exclusive to BMW M.