I think you're wrong. (archive)

Second, I think BMW HAS released some official info, in an unofficial kind of way. As posted previously, BMW has stated on their website that the new M3 will have an I-6. This doesn't mean it won't also have a V8 in the future, but at first, BMW has said it will be an I-6.

It seems to me that BMW has been vague with their details for a number of reasons. Obviously the competition, as already mentioned, has prompted them to keep quiet about the specs. Next, as pointed out previously, if BMW announces the IAA show car as the next M3, the clock starts ticking, as by German law they have 1 year to produce the car (this was stated by another writer as being a fact--I can't verify it but I believe it).

Another important point, as I see it, is that BMW has struck out twice with their styling kit attempts on the E46. The original E46 "sport" kit, which was ridiculously bland, was (thankfully) also unpopular and was discontinued. The second kit that was made available was also not well received (as far as I know). The point is that, in my opinion, the M3 was presented as a showcar in order to allow BMW to change its mind if the styling proved to be less than popular. Personally, I love the styling, and the press, etc. seem to be embracing it as well, which is a good sign.

As far as the weight is concerned, I have heard rumors of a 3500-3600 lb M3. But if you look at the weight of the E46 coupe, which isn't that much more than the E36, and the weight of the E36 M3, which isn't that much more than the E36 coupe, it just doesn't add up. I think it's likely that the E46 M3 will weigh 3300-3400 lbs but not more. Is that too much? Yes, but the rumor mill states that a lightweight version will be available. Even with a curb weight of 3400, though, the weight:power ratio of the E46 will be better than the current US spec car. As far a handling is concerned, the weight will hurt. But Motorsport has made some changes, such as aluminum suspension components and larger wheels/tires which will (hopefully) balance things out.

I've been disappointed lately with the direction BMW has taken with the 3-series (i.e. too soft), and I was getting pretty sure that the M3 was going to be a bust. After seeing the pictures and hearing more and more info though I've changed my mind.

I guess we'll know for sure about a year from now.

Mark G
98 328is
'01 M3 (#1 on the list)

Follow Ups:

Re: I think you're wrong. faris 16:54 9/28/99 (1)
- They presented the car as a "showcar" Mark G 17:45 9/28/99 (0)

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