The New BMW M3 : An Icon Returns

Highlights at a glance

A new BMW is cause for celebration (for enthusiastic drivers) or fear (from other car makers). A new M car is cause for double celebration since they arrive less frequently and aim to set new standards of performance, handling and use of advanced technology.

The new M3, on sale from April 2001, is due a special welcome. It is the third generation to wear this famous badge, which set new standards on the racetrack in 1986 and created a new market segment at a stroke.

The new M3 delivers performance with precision handling and response : it rewards the driver in the style of a thoroughbred sports car yet provides the comfort, luxury and practicality of a full four seat coupé.

It is faster, more economical and cleaner than its predecessor. And it offers more fluid handling, more refined responses and is safer too. It is also incredible value at £38,500 on the road.

“M cars are the purest expression of BMW” explained Jim O’Donnell, Managing Director of BMW (GB) Ltd. “The new M3 is the clear embodiment of this principle”.

All BMW M cars have five essential ingredients:

• A high-revving, naturally aspirated engine with exceptional performance potential
• At least one pioneering technical innovation
• A docile nature for everyday road conditions
• A distinct and individual character
• Outstanding value for money in terms of performance

“The new M3 delivers all this in spades”, said O’Donnell. “It behaves like a docile limousine in Hatch End, yet is as responsive as the most potent sports car at Brands Hatch”.“There is simply nothing like the new M3 on the road” he concluded.

M3 Coupé highlights:

• New 3.2 litre, 24 valve S54 engine
• 343 bhp @ 7900 rpm
• Maximum torque – 365 Nm (269 lbs ft) @ 4900 rpm
• 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds
• 62-0 mph in 2.6 seconds
• Cross-drilled compound brakes
• Maximum speed 155 mph (electronically limited)
• Technology transfer from Formula One with BMW WilliamsF1
• High engine speed for maximum responsiveness
• Six individual throttle valves – electronic control
• Infinitely variable valve timing – double VANOS
• Low friction cylinder head
• World first – M differential lock
• 6 speed manual gearbox
• M dynamic throttle control
• L18 inch alloy wheels
• New M sports leather seats
• New Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M sports tuning
• M aerodynamic body styling
• Xenon headlights including automatic height adjustment
• Sequential M Gearbox (SMG II) and M3 Convertible to arrive in summer 2001
• It sounds glorious, as a real sports car should