Photo: Original image by autoevolution
The craze of the new M4 is starting to take over the world. As the 2013 LA Auto Show creeps in, so does the launch of the MINI Cooper S, a car that has nothing to do with the M3 Coupe replacement you might say at first. However, look carefully and you might notice a thing or two.
The new model will have to fill in big shoes, shoes that mean something to enthusiasts all over the world. Ever since the Cooper was raced for the first time during the 1960s, everyone loved that famous 'go-kart' feeling.
It's almost the same with the M3. Ever since the E30 was launched, the world had its reasons to claim that it was one of the best cars ever made. Therefore it leaves the M4 with some even bigger shoes to fill.
However, we think the new model will rise to the expectations of the die-hard BMW audience and here's why:
Number 1: the engine will be ever more powerful. Forget about the V8. Sure, it was derived from the S85 unit that was, in turn, developed with Formula 1 technology and it revved into oblivion but let's face it, could've used more torque. This new one will have more than 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque at its disposal and around 430 HP, plenty for a car that is as light as the M4. That brings us to:
Number 2: the car will be lighter. Thanks to the enhanced CFRP production process, revolutionized for the mass production of the i3, the new model (and its M3 sedan sibling) will be using carbon fibre almost everywhere possible. Even the driveshaft will be lighter and made of one piece to allow for a better response.
Number 3: overall improved chassis. Compared to its predecessor, the new M4 will be lower and have a better weight distribution, making for better maneuverability. Furthermore, the rear differential will be locking, allowing you to have even more fun, on or off the track. The design has also been improved, not to mention the steering and stiffness of the front axle, things already confirmed in the first reviews of the new 4 Series.
On top of all those 3 reasons, you'll find the new, exclusive paints like the Aurum Dust and Yas Marina Blue, new optional features and a refreshed design. All things point to a return to what diehard fans have been asking: a very agile car that connects you to the road. We think it's going to be good enough.
It's almost the same with the M3. Ever since the E30 was launched, the world had its reasons to claim that it was one of the best cars ever made. Therefore it leaves the M4 with some even bigger shoes to fill.
However, we think the new model will rise to the expectations of the die-hard BMW audience and here's why:
Number 1: the engine will be ever more powerful. Forget about the V8. Sure, it was derived from the S85 unit that was, in turn, developed with Formula 1 technology and it revved into oblivion but let's face it, could've used more torque. This new one will have more than 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque at its disposal and around 430 HP, plenty for a car that is as light as the M4. That brings us to:
Number 2: the car will be lighter. Thanks to the enhanced CFRP production process, revolutionized for the mass production of the i3, the new model (and its M3 sedan sibling) will be using carbon fibre almost everywhere possible. Even the driveshaft will be lighter and made of one piece to allow for a better response.
Number 3: overall improved chassis. Compared to its predecessor, the new M4 will be lower and have a better weight distribution, making for better maneuverability. Furthermore, the rear differential will be locking, allowing you to have even more fun, on or off the track. The design has also been improved, not to mention the steering and stiffness of the front axle, things already confirmed in the first reviews of the new 4 Series.
On top of all those 3 reasons, you'll find the new, exclusive paints like the Aurum Dust and Yas Marina Blue, new optional features and a refreshed design. All things point to a return to what diehard fans have been asking: a very agile car that connects you to the road. We think it's going to be good enough.
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