The M3 Coupe is dead (the last one rolled off the assembly line earlier this month). Long live the new M3 Sedan (F31 for BMW employees and fans alike) and the M4 Coupe (codenamed F32). By now, everyone should know that BMW has reshuffled its designations with the 3-Series Coupe christened the new 4-Series. What you might not be fully aware of is that the 4-Series is to the 3-Series exactly what the 3-Series Coupe was to its sedan counterpart – go figure…
Naturally, the same applies to the halo versions of the two separate model series, the M3 Sedan and the M4 Coupe, both of which put on their black and white outfits and went for a date on the illustrious Nürburgring track for their final stages of development.
The two cars share their platform, aerodynamic kits and powertrain, so there’s no point in talking about them separately.
The M3 and M4 will be lighter and brawnier than their respective predecessors with one of the main changes being the introduction of a brand new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, based on BMW’s next generation B58 family of engines.
It is related to the upcoming 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder unit, as well the new 2.0-liter turbocharged four. If you do the math, you will see that in each case, each cylinder has a capacity of 500cc.
The straight-six in the M models will only be marginally more powerful than the 414hp (420PS) naturally-aspirated V8 at a rumored 416hp (422PS), but it will deliver 100 lb-ft (135Nm) of more peak torque at 395 lb-ft (535Nm). A standard six speed manual or an optional dual clutch DCT transmission will deliver power to the rear axle.
Other goodies will include a much lighter and aerodynamically enhanced (notice the deep recession in the middle) carbon fiber roof, the usual assortment of aero parts plus blistered wheel arches to fit the wider tires and axles, a mechanical differential and even optionally available ceramic brakes for those who don’t mind spending a fortune on extras.
The M4 Coupe will be previewed at next month’s Pebble Beach Concorso d’Elegance in California as a concept model.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoopS
BMW M4 COUPE 
BMW M3 SEDAN 
