I think there will be a new I6 before... (archive)

(and if) there will be a V8. I think it's likely that the V8 will make an appearance, but I think the second model year is a bit early. I also believe the rumors that they are using the new 3.0 engine from the 330 as a starting point for a larger displacement I-6, possible 3.4 liters or so. Again, not inside info, but speculation based on rumors. It just seems that the V8 is likely to increase the car's price too much and will close the market of the M5. I believe it will happen, just not right away.

It seems silly for the M3 to have a V8, but the competition from MB and Audi are making BMW think for the future. Will this 3.2 hold its own against a chipped S4 and the AMG C320K? Hmmm...it will be closer than ever. If BMW wants to retain their market share, which they have to do in order to remain independent, they will eventually need a more powerful but not more expensive engine solution. Whether they will use a massaged 3.0 bumped to 3.X liters or jump to a V8 is all speculation at this point, as I'm sure they dont know themselves.

Why is it taking so long for the car to come out? BMW has to make sure this car is a hit from day one. They can't risk the car losing in a shootout against its competition. It HAS to be better than the C320K and a chipped S4. Period. If the M3 is dethroned again in the press, it will hurt. I believe they are still making adjustments in things like the differential, weight, etc to optimize its performance.

Just my 2 cents.
Mark G

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