BMW M3 – Page 7 – Automobiles Review

CLP BMW M3 GT

BMW M3, designed at the Bavarian engine works, a sports car of high power, in the road traffic or on the race circuit, currently convinces in its fourth generation. The high level of perfection and attention to the parts from the supplier plant make the M3 a Brocken powerful mountain in relation to the modification topic.

CLP Automotive, the company specializing in the body kits, from the city of Georgensgmünd, Germany, responds to this challenge and is proud to provide BMW M3 GT, the top-class car.The long set of CLP, called, the “Interceptor”, which transmits its name to the BMW M3 GT, and which should be paid 8880 euro for, is responsible for the optics.

In a set you will receive:

the forebody section carbon facing
the motor hood
the front wing
the side channel bar
the sidewall jet
the rear apron
the rear spoiler

CLP BMW M3 GT - Front Angle

The solid 9 and 12×19 inch sports disks shine not only because of its white color, adapted to the rest of the car, but also due to the optical adapter plugs of the delayed firing, which gives the wheel a central attachment optics.

The power increase, based on the compressor, the responsibility for which lies on the 600 hp, can be found under the bonnet along with the optimized Bilstein-thread of the running gear, which monitors the binding driving pleasure. The Akrapovic titanium exhaust system – naturally with the suitable modified exhaust pipe – completes the set and contributes to the acoustic link.
There are the Recaro bucket seats and the modified fixture in the CLP-M3 GT saloon for the overtaking from Wiechers for the binding security. Naturally, the weight optimization is taken into consideration and is persistently carried out.

The total cost of the reconstruction is 69.000 euro.

Source: CLP Automotive

September 7, 2011

BMW M3 DTM Concept Car

BMW has introduced the new M3 DTM race car, which will be on show to motorsport fans and visitors to BMW Welt at the weekend. The car offers an initial impression of what the BMW M3 DTM will look like when it lines up at the start of the 2012 season.

BMW M3 DTM race car is powered by the powerful V8 engine equipped with the air restrictor as detailed in the technical regulations. It develops 480BHP (353 kW), which is enough to catapult the car to 100 km/h in about 3 seconds and to hit a top speed of 300 km/h.

“It is good to see how our DTM project is picking up speed,” said Dr. Draeger.

“Next year, BMW returns to the DTM after two decades. We will be facing our main competitors in the premium sector – and are already looking forward to this challenge. The DTM comeback sees BMW return to its roots. We have enjoyed great success in production car racing in the past, and I am convinced we will follow on in 2012 where we left off. Everyone at BMW Motorsport is working hard to ensure we get off to a successful start next season.”, he added.

Priaulx and Farfus have been confirmed as the first drivers to take to the track with the BMW M3 DTM in the 2012 season and during the intense test phase. Both drivers arrive in the DTM with impressive wins and titles to their names. Priaulx won the 2004 European Touring Car Championship for BMW, and followed that up with three World Championship titles between 2005 and 2007. The racing driver from the Channel Island of Guernsey (GB) has also proven his class in GT racing, with victory at the 2005 Nurburgring 24 Hours (DE) and first in the GT class at this year’s 12-hour race at Sebring (US).

Source: BMW

July 19, 2011

Monster MK1 – “Frankenstein” car

Here is an interesting car – Monster MK1. Practically, it is an experiment to see, which the worst combination of car parts, ever is. As you may suggest, there are part from the whole bunch of premium models currently on the market.

The ‘body parts’ of the ‘Nightmare MK1’

Make and Model	Car part
Audi A8	Brakes
BMW M3	Suspension
MG TF	Engine
Land Rover Freelander	Gearbox
Mercedes-Benz V-Class	Ignition
Renault Megane	Electrics
SEAT Alhambra	Air-conditioning
SEAT Toledo	Heating & Cooling systems
Volvo C70	Steering system

The Warranty Direct-inspired horror vehicle would break down every other month and cost an average of £2,050 to fix each year.

The Reliability Index is a unique tool that measures car reliability by considering average cost of repair, frequency of failure, age and mileage. Overall, the Monster Mk1 claims a Reliability Index figure of over 500 – more than five times that of the average car.

“The Monster Mk1 represents the worst-performing vehicles in every sector, from suspension to electrics, on our roads today.”, commented Warranty Direct managing director, Duncan McClure Fisher.

“The wide range of cars included in our special blend highlights how mostly reliable cars can be dragged down by one problem part.”, he added.

July 12, 2011

Vorsteiner BMW M3 GTRS3 Widebody

Vorsteiner has finally realeased M3 GTRS3, which is just staggering. The car is based on BMW M3 E92, but it is completely rebuilt.

The package of BMW M3 GTRS3 Widebody includes carbon fiber front bumper, carbon fiber wide arch front fenders, carbon fiber extended side skirts, carbon fiber wide arch rear quarter panels, carbon fiber wide arch rear bumper.

There are also clubsport carbon fiber vented hood, VRS aero carbon fiber boot lid, VTS type II Titanium sport exhaust system.

BMW M3 GTRS3 Widebody stands on V-309 three-piece Concave forged wheels fitted with Michelin PS2 ultra-performance tires.

GTRS3

GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Front Bumper with replacement splitter
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Front Fenders
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Extended Side skirts
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Rear Quarter Panels
GTRS3 Carbon Fiber Wide Arch Rear Bumper
GTS3 Clubsport Carbon Fiber Vented Hood
VRS Aero Carbon Fiber Boot Lid
VTS Type II Titanium Sport Exhaust System
V-309 3-Piece Concave Forged Wheels
Michelin PS2 Performance Tires

Source: Vorsteiner

July 4, 2011

BMW at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed

BMW has recently introduced the eagerly awaited BMW M5 F10, which will be exhibited at the The Goodwood Festival of Speed 1-3 July 2011. The new car will make its UK debut in the BMW pavilion along with a selection of the Bavarian manufacturer’s hottest current cars and some famous racing cars celebrating anniversaries from its glorious past.

M5 F10 is powered by a 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 with staggering 560PS at 5750RPM and 680Nm at just 1500RPM. It features M TwinPower Turbo technology, twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and a cross-bank exhaust manifold.

0 to 100 km/h takes 4.4 seconds and to 200 km/h just 13 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). However, the previous M5 was capable of doing more than 200 mph, so this will be faster. The car is equipped with 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic and Efficient Dynamics technology, including engine Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration. The fuel consumption is amazing – 28.5 mpg and CO₂ emissions – 232g/km.

M5 F10 is priced at £73 040 and it will be available in the UK in November 2011.

Other cars, which will be exhibited at the motor show are BMW Z4 GT3, BMW 328 and M3 E92 GTS.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held from 1- 3 July 2011. Representing BMW Group UK will be Martin Harrison, Media Relations Officer.

Source: BMW

June 21, 2011

2011 BMW Frozen Black Edition M3 Coupe

BMW has introduced a special 2011 Frozen Black Edition M3 Coupes for the US. The car boasts a matte black exterior with gloss black accents, red calipers and huge 19” GTS alloy wheels. Practically, the car is a successor to the last year’s BMW M3 Frozen Gray Coupe.

The interior comes with Novillo leather upholstery, red contrast stitching and carbon fiber trim with leather accents. Frozen Black Edition M3 also comes with heated front seats and premium audio system and GPS SAT NAV.

The engine remains untouched – 4.0 liter naturally aspirated hi-revving V8 with 420PS (309 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft). It is mated to a M-DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission). The acceleration to 60 mph takes 4.5 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

The price for this pleasure is $79 650. There will be produced just 20 units.

2011 BMW Frozen Black Edition M3 Coupe:

BMW Individual Frozen Black Exterior Paint
Black Extended Novillo leather with Red Contrast Stitching on seats, headrests, door inserts, armrests, middle console, and door pulls.
Black M3 GTS wheels, 19” diameter with high-performance summer tires
Red brake calipers
Gloss black kidney grills
Gloss black side-gill elements
Gloss black exhaust pipe tips

Additional specified equipment from M3 catalog:

M-DCT Transmission with Drivelogic
Competition Package

Lowered suspension
Sport mapping for EDC/DSC

Premium Package 2

Power folding auto-dimming mirrors
Universal garage-door opener
Power front seats
Carbon Leather interior trim
Interior mirror with compass
BMW Assist with Bluetooth

Convenience Package

Anti-theft alarm system
Comfort Access keyless entry system
Park Distance Control (rear)
Navigation System
Voice-command
iPod and USB adapter
Real-time Traffic Information

Heated Front Seats
Satellite Radio with 1-year subscription
BMW Individual Enhanced Premium Sound System

*Excluding $875 Destination & Handling and excluding $1,300 federal gas guzzler tax.

Source: BMW

June 13, 2011

2011 BMW M3 Carbon Edition

BMW has announced a new special edition M3, which will be available only in China.2011 BMW M3 Carbon Edition will be limited to just 111 units, which will be sold at the biggest car market. The sports car features carbon fiber roof, BMW performance front GT splitters, hood inlets and a trunk mounted lip spoiler. Of course, all elements come in carbon fiber.The special edition M3 is finished in white pearl metallic paint with black stripes. A Carbon Edition logo and huge 19” Style 220 M3 wheels in matt black fitted with high performance tires complete the exterior look.The interior received carbon fiber element, too. The “Carbon Edition” logo is present as well as white leather for the arm rest, door panels and center console. The final touch is the carbon fiber patterned material for the headrests.The engine didn’t get any power boost, because it already has a lot of it – a 4.0 liter naturally aspirated hi revving V8 with 420PS and 400Nm of torque. It is mated to a Drivelogic 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.2011 BMW M3 Carbon Edition is priced at 1.23 million yuan, which is around $189 000.

June 2, 2011

The evolution of BMW M3 series

The ultimate driving machine. This is how they call BMW M3 series. And it is for a reason. The MOTORSPORT division of BMW did their best to deliver the best possible experience from a BMW .

How it all began

In 1986 the first M3(1986-1992) was introduced. It was on the basis of E30 and had a 2,3 4 cylinder engine with 195 hp. The reason why the first M3 was actually produced was to homologate the car for the tourist car championship where it would compete with the Mercedes 190 EVO. Two more engines were used for the first M3. A 2 litre, 4 cylinder engine and also a 2,5 delivering the massive 250 hp, still naturally aspirated. The 2,0 version could be easily recognized, it lacked the curves of the wide arches. It seems like the M3 version does not have much in common with the regular e30. Besides the hood, roof panel, and sunroof it did not have much in common. These 4 cylinder engines were only reserved for the M3, and so was the firm suspension.

The 6 cylinders(E36)

Although nowadays 6 cylinders in a row is almost dead as conception, when the E36 M3 showed on the market, things seemed a little different. 1992 – the new M3 was introduced. With a 3 litre engine, 6 cylinders and output of 286hp. At first all M3s were based on coupe, but later the sedan and convertible models could also carry the M3 badge. Later in the production a more powerful engine was to be used – a 3,2 with 321hp . What is interesting, models sold in North America had 240 hp, regardless 3,0 or 3,2. Also, the 6 speed gearbox was never available in North America.

A special version – the M3 CSL is definitely worth mentioning. This model was sold with a trunk full of goodies to improve the performance of the car. Why they were not put directly into the car? Very simple, buying this version, the customer would sign a legal paper that they were aware installation of the latter would void the warranty of the car.

The production of E36 M3 seized in December 1999 with the convertibles being produced last.

The E46 M3

The next M3 came in October 2000. The engine is a 3,2 liter with code S54 – 343 hp available. What is new is the SMG II drivelogic transmission. It is basically the standard 6 speed manual but with electrohydraulically actuated clutch pedal. The E46 also had a CSL version, which is a real sports car that one could drive home. This version is cut off in terms of all unnecessary gadgets you do not need for the track, it does not even come with AC, stereo or navigation system.

What’s on the market now?

Well, it is the E90/92/93. First introduced in 2007 it did have a thing or two to show. The new M3 was a totally different car compared to its predecessors. First of all it has two more cylinders. Despite the return of the turbo mania, the new M3 is naturally aspirated. To be more precise it is a 4,0 litre v8 engine with 420 hp available at 8300 rpm. The latest M3 comes with a 6 speed manual or the optional M-DKG transmission which reduces the 0-100 time with 2 tenths of a second. The E92 M3 also has a light weight carbon-fiber roof to reduce the weight and lower the centre of gravity. At first the new M3 was supposed to be called… M4, but BMW realized this might not be well perceived by the customers and people who liked the traditions created more than 20 years ago. Many people say that market researchers and accountants are more and more involved in the build of cars. It seems like this has had some impact on the ultimate driving machine. The convertible suffers from the heavy mechanics that take care of the roof and the result is 1880 kg curb weight – not a good prerequisite for agility and speed.

A special model is also available(A special M3, ironic right). It is called the GTS. The 4,0 litre engine has been further developed to become 4,4 and to provide 450hp. What is more, it weighs about 150 kg less than the regular M3 making it a true beast on the road… or track. The production of GTS started in May 2010. Today all 250 GTS M3s have been sold.

To be continued…

May 27, 2011

BMW Motorsport – M3 GT

BMW Motorsport is preparing their cars for the very important endurance race – 24-hour Le Mans. Together with 52 other cars, the two BMW M3 GTs with car numbers 55 and 56 took to the “Circuit de la Sarthe” on Sunday, completing a total of 147 laps.

The team collected very useful data, which will be used for the settings of the M3 GT race cars. The 24h Le Mans race will be held on 11^th/12^th June 2011, so the team has a month and a half to prepare the two BMWs.

The No.55 BMW M3 GT, with Augusto Farfus (BR), Jörg Müller (DE) and Dirk Werner (DE) at the wheel, came third in the GTE Pro class after two four-hour test sessions with a lap time of 4:01.631 minutes. Andy Priaulx (GB), Dirk Müller (DE) and Joey Hand (US) shared driving duties in the second BMW M3 GT, finishing seventh after clocking a time of 4:03.856 minutes.

This test ahead of the 24-hour race definitely was an important one for us,” commented Team Manager Charly Lamm following the test day.

“Le Mans is such a unique and mighty venue that every single lap of this track helps. The team used the occasion to reacquaint itself with the special demands and workings asked for by this classic circuit. The test was of particular importance for Joey Hand. He was a Le Mans rookie and successfully qualified for the race held in June. Conditions were excellent, all six drivers managed to put in many laps and collected a lot of data.”, he added.

BMW Motorsport - M3 GT

Source: BMW Motorsport

April 26, 2011

Vorsteiner BMW E93 M3 Cabrio

Vorsteiner has just released its first exterior custom component (VRS Cabrio Boot Lid) for the BMW’s E93 – 3 and M3 Series. (more…)

April 4, 2011

BMW M3 Royal Edition

BMW has released a special Royal Edition of its renowned, high-performance BMW M3 Coupe model, styled exclusively to celebrate the upcoming royal wedding of HRH Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton. (more…)

April 2, 2011

BMW E92 M3 Matte Edition

BMW has unveiled a special E92 M3 Matte Edition for Chinese market. The sports coupe is finished in black or gray and boasts a staggering appearance with black chrome accents, red brake calipers and 19” alloys.

The interior has a lot of carbon fiber, black leather upholstery with red contrast stitching – just a perfect combination.

The engine stays untouched, but the performance it delivers is more than satisfying. A 4.0 liter V8 with 420PS (309 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.6 seconds and the top speed is around 300 km/h, but for safety reasons is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

The price is of an original BMW E92 M3 is € 72 900 and we are eager to see, how it will cost in China.

bmw e92 m3 matte edition

Source: BMW

March 29, 2011

Tag: BMW M3