BMW has released details of the engine to go in its new M3, previously confirmed only as a V8 of unspecified capacity and output. This new 3,999cc engine, built especially for the hot 3-Series, develops 420bhp and 295lb-ft of torque, with 85% of that torque available through the rev range up to 6,500rpm and 251lb-ft available at just 2,000rpm, with torque peaking at 3,900rpm. It'll rev right up to 8,300rpm.
BMW says that this engine, inspired by the V8 in the BMW-Sauber Formula One cars, is one of the lightest eight-cylinder engines in the world at just 202kg; it's lighter than the outgoing M3's straight six. It features Bi-Vanos variable camshaft control, eight individual throttle butterflies for rapid response, two oil pumps, a high-pressure, high-flow exhaust system with four catalysts, and monitoring of ignition at each individual spark plug.
It also comes with BMW's brake energy regeneration system with alternator control, which traps energy otherwise lost during deceleration to charge the battery and power electric functions, thus reducing the load on the engine.
The engine block will be built at Landshut, near Munich, where BMW makes its F1 blocks. No official word yet on transmission, but BMW promises very short ratios, enabled by the high-speed engine; a six-speed manual 'box or optional seven-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) are expected, along with a 0-60mph time of around five seconds.
BMW will launch the coupe later this year, most likely at September's Frankfurt Motor Show; cabriolet versions will follow.
Source: Channel 4
BMW says that this engine, inspired by the V8 in the BMW-Sauber Formula One cars, is one of the lightest eight-cylinder engines in the world at just 202kg; it's lighter than the outgoing M3's straight six. It features Bi-Vanos variable camshaft control, eight individual throttle butterflies for rapid response, two oil pumps, a high-pressure, high-flow exhaust system with four catalysts, and monitoring of ignition at each individual spark plug.
It also comes with BMW's brake energy regeneration system with alternator control, which traps energy otherwise lost during deceleration to charge the battery and power electric functions, thus reducing the load on the engine.
The engine block will be built at Landshut, near Munich, where BMW makes its F1 blocks. No official word yet on transmission, but BMW promises very short ratios, enabled by the high-speed engine; a six-speed manual 'box or optional seven-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) are expected, along with a 0-60mph time of around five seconds.
BMW will launch the coupe later this year, most likely at September's Frankfurt Motor Show; cabriolet versions will follow.
Source: Channel 4
