BMW M3 and M4

PERFORMANCE AND WEIGHT.

Episode 01: BMW M3 & M4 Explained.

Performance and weight.Episode 01: BMW M3 & M4 Explained.
11. Jan 2021

The epitome of racing feeling in everyday traffic starts a new round. 35 years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW M GmbH presents the latest generation of its high-performance automobiles in the premium mid-size segment. Time to introduce the two new vehicles. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers have the floor.


In episode one, Klaus, responsible for Functional Integration BMW M3 and M4, explains how he makes the vehicles lighter and faster. He also answers questions from the BMW M community.

 

 

BMW M3 Sedan:
Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 10.8 (NEDC) / 10.6-10.3 (WLTP)
CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 248 (NEDC) / 241-236 (WLTP)

BMW M4 Competition Coupé:
Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 10.2 (NEDC) / 10.2-9.9 (WLTP)
CO2 emissions in g/km (combined): 234 (NEDC) / 233-227 (WLTP)

Read more
BMW M3 M4 Explained

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

 

Why is the new M4 not as wide as the new M3?

 

Klaus: The additional width of the M3 is a result of the required rear wheels arch covers in ECE spec models. (US spec models M3/M4 are identical in width.)

 

What are the tire sizes on the BMW M4 and M3 Competition?

Rear tyres: 285/30-R20 (standard: 285/35-R19).
Front tyres: 275/35-R19 (275/40-R18).

 

Can you get the M carbon bucket seats for the BMW M3 with manual gearbox?

Yes, for sure!

 

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Why is there no carbon strut in the engine compartment?

In the given geometry of this vehicle, the choosen concept is the optimum solution functionally.

 

Are pistons forged in the S58 engine?

SPOILER ALERT – Watch out for another episode to come …

 

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Why is the new M4 heavier than the old one?

 

First, in order to achieve a higher level of performance there are bigger brakes and wheels, lots of chassis stiffening measures, and sufficient cooling for stable racetrack performance. Additionally, the new generation has grown, as has the regular BMW 4 series. Furthermore, there are new emissions and safety standards in place which increase the vehicle's weight. Finally, the standard equipment of the car is higher than the base spec of its predecessor.

 

Does the competition version come with manual transmission?

The Competition models always come with M Steptronic.

 

How much does the new M4 with automatic transmission weigh?

The M Steptronic transmission adds 25kg of weight. Sedan models are 5kg heavier than the comparable Coupé versions.

 

Why have the models with manual transmission less hp than the automatic ones?

 

The manual gearbox is in combination with the generally high requirements for durability / longevity etc. not designed for the increased performance requirements of the Competition version.

 

Read more
BMW M4 Competition

 

 

What is the difference in weight between the M4 with all options and one with the minimal option?

The difference between maximum and minimum weight spec is approx. 70kg in the new BMW M3 and M4.

 

Is it possible to shift from xDrive to RWD in the AWD models of the M3/M4?

***SPOILER ALERT*** Yes, it is!
 

Read more
BMW M4 Competition

Does adding any options, such as sport differentials, add weight to either M3 or M4 models?

The Active M Differential comes as standard equipment for all M3 and M4 models. Of course, options can add weight (e.g. electric sunroof +23kg) or reduce weight (e.g. M Carbon bucket seats -10kg).

 

How big is the tank on the M4?

59 liters.

 

What is the capacity of the trunk of the M4?

 

440 litres.

 

Ceramic brakes for daily use? Is this a good choice?

***SPOILER ALERT*** Watch out for another episode to come …

 

What is your favourite part about this generation, compared to the last?

Overall: the driving characteristics. As a single part: the M Carbon seats.
 

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How long have you been at BMW?

Since 1997.

 

How did you get into your job?

I have been a petrol head since I was a child …

 

Your own configuration of the M3 or M4?

The M3 (with 6-speed MT) and M Carbon bucket seats.

 

What do you drive Klaus?

M3 Coupé Competition (E46) in Silver Grey metallic on black leather.
 

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MORE HIGHLIGHTS:

BMW M3 und M4 explained

M Drift Analyser.

08. Jul 2021
In episode 23, BMW M developer Thomas explains the M Drift Analyser for BMW M3 and M4.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

Launch Control M Steptronic.

05. Jul 2021
In episode 22, BMW M developer Stefan explains the launch control of the BMW M3 and M4 models with M Steptronic transmission.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

Launch Control Manual Transmission.

05. Jul 2021
In episode 21, BMW M developer Sebastian explains the Launch Control in combination with the manual 6-speed gearbox for the BMW M3 and M4.
Read article
BMW M3 und M4 explained

M xDrive.

15. Apr 2021
In episode 20, BMW M developer Peter explains the BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive system of the BMW M3 and M4 Competition.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

Steptronic Transmission

12. Apr 2021
In episode 19, BMW M developer Karsten explains the M Steptronic Sport transmission of the BMW M3 and M4 Competition.
Read article
BMW M3 and M4 explained

The Drive shaft.

08. Apr 2021
In episode 18, BMW M developer Torsten tells us about the drive shaft in the new BMW M3 and M4.
Read article
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  • The models illustrated include optional equipment.

    Due to regular software updates, screen designs in the communication may differ from the actual screen design in your car.

    Official data on power consumption and electric range were determined in accordance with the mandatory measurement procedure and comply with Regulation (EU) 715/2007 valid at the time of type approval. In case of a range, figures in the NEDC take into account differences in the selected wheel and tire size; figures in the WLTP take into account any optional equipment. WLTP values are used for assessing taxes and other vehicle-related charges that are (also) based on CO2 emissions, as well as for the purposes of vehicle-specific subsidies, if applicable. Where applicable, the NEDC values listed were calculated based on the new WLTP measurement procedure and then converted back to the NEDC measurement procedure for comparability reasons. For newly type-tested vehicles since 01.01.2021, the official data no longer exist according to NEDC, but only according to WLTP. For more information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures, see https://www.bmw.com/wltp.

    For further information about the official fuel consumption and the specific CO2 emission of new passenger cars can be taken out of the „handbook of fuel consumption, the CO2 emission and power consumption of new passenger cars“, which is available at all selling points and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

    All vehicles, equipment, combination possibilities and varieties shown here are examples and can differ in your country. In no way do they constitute a binding offer by the BMW M GmbH. Visit your local BMW website or see your authorised BMW M Retailer for accurate details on the offers in your country.