The BMW M3, first introduced on the E30 chassis in 1985, has proven its capabilities and performance potential by exceeding the tally of competition victories held by Porsche's 911. The BMW E46 M3, the third generation, was first introduced in October 2000 and appeared worldwide with a new 3.2-liter S54 M-Tuned engine. At the time of the car's introduction, and not including the McLaren F1, this Euro spec engine had the highest specific output naturally aspirated engine ever made by BMW. The engine offered 338 horsepower. The M3 was offered as either a coupe or convertible - the saloon version was no longer available. The E46 M3 came equipped with a 6-speed Getrag gearbox with an electro-hydraulically actuated clutch (no clutch pedal). A SMG drivelogic gearbox, also known as the SMG II, was offered as optional equipment. Shifting with the SMG was controlled by gear knob or the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. As with most M engines, the S54 again had 6 independent throttle bodies and this time electronically operated throttles (drive-by-wire throttle with no cable). The engine had a redline of 8,000 RPM.
By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2016
By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2016
The story of an exception: the BMW M3 is 25.
The story of an exception: the BMW M3 is 25.
The anticipation began in August 1985. That summer Germanys automobile magazines built up their readers expectations for the fastest 3 Series BMW of all times. The key data revealed a sports car that would punch way above its class 200 hp, top speed in excess of 230 kmh, sprint from a standing start to 100 kmh inside 6.7 seconds. However, the story was that the most dynamic BMW 3 Series drivers....
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The Champion in Touring Car Racing. 25 years ago the BMW M3 started its unique series of victories.
The Champion in Touring Car Racing. 25 years ago the BMW M3 started its unique series of victories.
In August 1985, a rumour surfaced in motor magazine Auto-Deutschland which emanated from a new sports car. An A Group Car from BMW that was a thoroughbred racing car according to the rules but was also to be produced in a version licensed to drive on open roads for everyday use. Speculation about this dream car that could take to normal roads and was intended for the Most dynamic among BMW 3 Series....
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