BMW M3, M4 and competition – The boldest and most logical path for the M brand?
BMW takes their M cars seriously, very seriously, and creating a follow up for the literal definition of what a sport coupe or a sport sedan is, is a monumental task. But it has been done, and people are not happy. The front. Some say it looks like a couple of nostrils, and I must agree. After seeing a couple of renders with the F80 kidneys on it, from the looks alone I was completely sold, but after seeing it for a couple of days now, it is growing on me. BMW have a habit of changing their designs quite in radical fashion. If it is a foolish choice or a genius move, time will tell, but it is time to find out what the deal is with the new BMW M3 and M4.
Firstly, just go for the M4. The lines of this coupe is out of this world. Sharper and thinner has been the ethos, where a lot of shapes have been simplified, which in turn makes it look much softer and a lot less aggressive compared to the older F80, but everything is tied together very well. It is hard to screw up the shape of a coupe.
Forged alloy wheels, rear diffusor, carbon fiber roof (comes as standard), four real exhaust tips and larger wheel arches really sets the bar, as well as expectations, for what the car should deliver once you get behind the wheel. And what an interior it is! Available as a six speed manual, BMW really sets them apart as the true drivers´ car. Go for the competition, and the only choice is the M Steptronic automatic gearbox.
Being the first to receive an update of the big three from Germany, the M3 and M4 the interior of has embraced the meaning of angular. Opt out for the carbon M-sport seats and you it looks so special. It has just the right amount of sportiness and focus without lacking that finesse and attention to detail. Just look at the red M buttons at the steering wheel! Having buttons in a striking color on the steering wheel is so simple, but adds so much.
Having received a spanking from the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio in terms of performance and driving dynamics, it was time for an upgrade. Power comes from a straight six, producing 480 hp and 550 Nm, or 510 hp and 650 Nm in competition spec. Exactly the power of the Alfa. Coincidence? I think not. 0-100 km/h is done in 4.2 s, and 3.9 s for the competition. I don’t believe that for a second since it is proven that 0-100 numbers are often downplayed.
BMW talks about tradition, and for the longest of times, the M3 and M4 has been rear wheel driven. This is not the case anymore, as it is now possible to go for an xDrive all-wheel drive system. Luckily, it is still rear-wheel biased, but power is split to achieve optimal grip. Better traction helps sprints, and the rear bias helps with agility. A limited slip differential also comes as standard, as does chassis bracing. Not only simple bolt ons in the engine bay, but also strengthening of the A pillar, rear axle, underbody, boot and front axle. Everything has been tuned to give the cars a linear build-up of lateral forces, which in other words means that it shouldn’t be twitchy to drive.
As expected, you get a host of different settings. 10 stage traction control and brake pedal settings are the most unique ones, and will sure to stick out compared to the competition.
It is also possible to get M specific performance parts such as carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fiber rear wing and other glorious carbon fiber elements and details.
