: I don't see the E46 M3 remaining an I6 for long. BMW is getting all it can from this engine (from what I read) and the M3 will not be competitive in it's class against the Audis, Porsches, Corvettes, etc. Plus, an aluminum V8 will be a lighter engine.

: It wouldn't suprise me one bit for BMW to have the I6 engine for only one model year ('01) in the E46 M3. If it's time for an engine change, BMW will undoubtably make that change. They're done it before!

: Many monthes age the heavy rumor from some reliable sources was that the new M3 would be a V8. Then word came out that R&D on the V8 was not ready. I believe BMW was pressed to produce the new M3 but the V8 engine wasn't ready so they went with the easier to build I6. I realize BMW says the I6 is a "new" engine but for the most part it is a very, very similar engine to what has been produced for years... Different? Yes. New? I sure wouldn't call it that. Brand new design from ground up? Absolutely not.

: My money is that there will be a V8 in the E46 M3 in the very near future! When? I'll say the '02 model year.

: That's my guess... My opinion on this subject probably won't be too pleasing for many here but that's what I think...sorry.

: What to do, what to do? I'm number 6 on a wait list myself. Decisions, decisions...

: Bob ///M3

: : Is this really going to happen for a future M3? Does anyone have any insight Y/N?

: : I'm #2 on the waiting list at my dealer and I've been told I'll be picking out my car this September. Delivery expected in the new year. Just curious if this transmission will be offered - I may wait for the 2001's if thats the case and continue to drive my 98 M3. Also the first year of the former model had a smaller engine displacement than the 2nd year model if I remember correctly ie., 95 was a 3.0L and 96 to current 99 is a 3.2L - anyone worried that the 2000 M3 model will be replaced in 2001 by a more nimble engine?

: : Jerome