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2006 BMW M3 news, pictures, and information
BMW M3 a winner all round
The 2003 BMW E46 M3 is acclaimed as Australia's Best Sportscar over $57,000 for the third year running.The E46 M3 has made a habit of winning, underlining the enduring driver appeal the high performance M3 offers, not only compared with its would-be rivals but across the entire market for high performance machines.
Power and performance continue to be the hallmarks of one of Australia's most acclaimed sports driving machines.
The BMW M3 Coupe sprints to 100 km/h from rest in just 5.2 seconds yet consumes just 11.9 ltr/100 km over the combined cycle.
Athletic in style, elegant in looks
From the very first sight, the new M3 exudes a sense of superb power, wide and muscular looks, as well as beautiful elegance. With its new front air dam with ellipsoid fog lamps and extra-large cooling air intake scoops, it stands out from all the other models in the BMW 3 Series range. The kidney grille, slightly modified in its position, blends with the new design of the front end.
Made of aluminium, the engine compartment lid is approximately 40 per cent lighter than the same unit made of steel plate. A particularly important factor is that despite this reduction in weight the engine compartment lid offers the same stiffness and crash safety as the steel plate unit in the 3 Series Coupe.
This was made possible using computer simulation to demonstrate how the geometric features responsible for stability affect the static and dynamic stiffness of the engine compartment lid.
The engine compartment lid on the M3 is characterised by the new contours of the power dome, a small hump in the middle of the lid, providing room for the new M3's engine. This sets the tone for the overall style and appearance of the M3, without one single feature serving only a visual purpose alone. Instead, all modifications versus the standard model are based on the clear rule that form follows function, offering beautiful styling and design at the same time.
The body of the new BMW M3, including the wheel arches is considerably wider (+20 mm) and features air scoops with the M3 emblem on the front side panels.
The wider body and flared wheel arches are needed to fit both the wider track as well as appropriate tyres and wheels. Indeed, the extra-wide 225/45 ZR 18 tyres at the front and the 255/40 ZR 18 tyres at the rear on newly designed M Styling double-spoke light-alloy wheels measuring 8 inches in width at the front and 9 inches at the rear provide a perfect match for this muscular appearance, clearly distinguishing the new M3 from the 'standard' 3 Series Coupe. The new M3 measures 4.49 metres in length, 1.78 metres in width, and 1.37 metres in height. The car's wheelbase is 2.73 metres.
New M exterior mirrors in aspheric design fold back electrically as an option whenever required. Special side-sill covers, as well as a streamlined rear air dam and a specially designed rear spoiler accentuate this powerful, dynamic look of BMW's new M athlete. The exhaust system with twin chambers and four tailpipes clearly identifies this model as a member of the exclusive M Car range.
The interior – sporting and elegant all in one
Benefiting from a typical BMW M instrument cluster with special scales on the instruments, the driver has a clear view of all the new M3's functions. Again in classic BMW M style, the circular dials so typical of BMW have, on this car, red indicator needles. A feature carried over from the M5 is the rev counter with its variable warning zone: Whenever the driver starts the engine cold, orange light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are illuminated as the engine speed reaches 4,000 rpm, they are then extinguished in steps of 500 rpm as oil temperature increases. As soon as there is only one orange and two red LEDs left on, the engine has reached its optimum operating temperature. A further standard feature is the oil temperature display.
The newly designed M multifunction steering wheel has a padded, extra-thick rim, M stitching and thumb supports making it not only attractive but also functional. A footrest in aluminium as well as the door cutout strips with the M3 symbol rounds off the special look and style of the car's interior.
The courtesy lights package, featured as standard, comprises both the illuminated gearshift lever with its six-speed gearshift pattern and M logo as well as the interior mirror with its automatic anti-dazzle effect. Automatic air conditioning with separate temperature control for the driver and front-seat passenger comes as standard. Passive safety is at the same high standard offered by the entire BMW 3 Series, frontal, side and head airbags featured as standard to protect the driver and front passenger, with two side airbags standard on the rear seats.
The Power Unit of the M3
The power unit featured in the new M3 excels providing its turbine-like power combined with equally outstanding running smoothness and refinement, fortes which have long become the synonym of BMW six-cylinders the world over. Now the new engine adds new meaning to these supreme qualities, introducing the BMW M high-speed features and technology at a standard equipment to that required by the most demanding and sophisticated competition engines in the world, the power units to be found in Formula 1.
Outstanding efficiency at all engine speeds and under all loads guarantees superior fuel economy in everyday motoring and a low level of emissions.Source - BMW
The BMW M3 is an extremely unique model that has lived up to its motorsport heritage. This has held true since the beginning of the M3's launch in 1986 all the way through to the 2007 version of the BMW M3.
Well known for its automobile performance, BMW offered a specific vehicle for the select crowd that wanted a vehicle more thrilling. BMW introduced an all new pure-bred sportscar in February of 2001, the M3 GR powered by a V8 engine. A small series was produced from the flexible production facilities of BMW Individual permit, along with road licensing. No comfort equipment was used in the creation of this vehicle by using carbon fiber body parts. The two-seater M3 GTR only weighed 1350 kilograms and was based on the prior generation of the 3 Series models.
The M3 featured a 4.0 liter V8 engine with a cylinder bank angle of 90 degrees. The road version of the BMW M3 generated more than 258 kW (350 hp). The road version was kept as technically close as possible to the racing version. The only differences was the dry sump lubrication, a 6-speed gearbox, the variable M differential lock, a two-disc sports clutch and the very light V8 engine.
The rear spoiler, the roof and the front and rear aprons were made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic that aided in reducing the weight of the M3, just like the race version. The aerodynamic body was enhanced by both the extended front and rear apron and the rear spoiler. The powerplant's thermal well-being was controlled by additional cooling slits in the bonnet.
Featuring a much lowered suspension and mass amounts of sporty suspension settings, the BMW M3 GTR has a compact V8 high-performance engine that allows for optimum weight distribution, along with 19-inch wheels that guarantees amazing handling properties. The base price for a 2001 BMW M3 GTR Street Version is approximately $250,000.
For the 2000 season the M3 coupe and convertible sat out before undergoing a refresh in the spring of 2001. Featuring 333-horsepower six –cylinder engines, the newest M3 now had 100 hp more than the regular 3 Series models. Unveiled in January 2001 at Detroit's North American International Auto Show, the M3 convertible followed the coupe that had debuted nine months earlier at the New York Auto Show. Priced at a whopping $45,970, according the BMW, the soft top M3 'is the only true high-performance full four-seat convertible in its market segment.'
Similar in appearance and dimensions to the regular BMW 330Ci coupe and convertible, the M editions carry very distinct differences that include a cross-hatch center air intake, elliptical fog lights and a new bumper and spoiler ensemble. Allowing for more space for the M engine below, a new aluminum hood has subtle ‘power dome' accenting. To accommodate the wide tires, the wheels openings are flared outward by an additional 20 millimeters. The side mirrors on the M series have a distinct aero shape while ‘gills' behind the front wheel openings display an M3 emblem.
At the rear is a subtle decklid spoiler that is above a special M bumper/apron design. The M3 models also feature a wider front and rear track than BMW models, along with a unique suspensions and underbody components.
Basically identical from the front end to the A-pillar, the third-generation M3 coupes and convertible featured a rising beltline that imparts a visually lower stance to the convertible. 54 inches tall, the M3 coupe measure 176.7 inches in length. The fabric top of the M3 folds into a variable stowage compartment which offers increased storage capacity when the top is raised. Satin chrome finished wheels are featured with 18-inch tires on both M3 models. In case a serious pressure loss occurs, a new tire-pressure control monitor alerts the driver.
The coupe and convertible both had room for four and featured black M cloth along with Nappa leather upholstery. The M3 coupe featured three types of sport seats, the standard 10-way manual, eight-way power in a Luxury Package or the unique new M sports seats as a separate option. The new M sports seats featured 14-way power adjustment along with adjustable backrest side bolsters. The M3 convertible featured standard power front seats; which was an easy-entry featured that made it easier to gain access to the backseat.
The M3 featured standard equipment that included power windows, power heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control. The convertible featured a heated glass rear window as a standard option along with a power-operated top. Only one button initiated the entire top-down operation from unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising a rigid magnesium cover before closing it again. The convertible also featured a wind deflector along with a removable aluminum hardtop. Available options were an optional roof rack and BMW's Park Distance Control system, a navigation system and a moonroof for the M3 coupe.
The BMW M-edition received the all new 333-hp, 3.2 –liter inline –six cylinder with continuous variable valve timing. The engine in the M3 features 93 more hp than its M predecessor from the previous generation. A new Getrag six-speed-manual transmission is featured along with a new M Variable Differential Lock that enhances both handling and traction on slippery surfaces.
Dynamic Stability Control, BMW's electronic stability system, combined traction control along with cornering-stability enhancement. This was the first time this system was installed in an M3. The convertible was capable of reaching 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds. The M3 Coupe reached 60 mph in only 4.8 seconds. To aid the driver and keep from over-revving a cold engine, a warming zone on the tachometer changes as the engine warms up, until it reaches the full 8,000-rpm ‘redline' limit.
The BMW M3 featured dual front airbags, all-disc antilock brakes and seat-integrated side-impact airbags all as standard featured. In the event of an impending rollover, a Rollover Protection System in the convertible automatically deploys stabilizer bars behind the rear seats. Optional are rear-seat side-impact airbags along with daytime running lights.Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click here© 1998-2009. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Well known for its automobile performance, BMW offered a specific vehicle for the select crowd that wanted a vehicle more thrilling. BMW introduced an all new pure-bred sportscar in February of 2001, the M3 GR powered by a V8 engine. A small series was produced from the flexible production facilities of BMW Individual permit, along with road licensing. No comfort equipment was used in the creation of this vehicle by using carbon fiber body parts. The two-seater M3 GTR only weighed 1350 kilograms and was based on the prior generation of the 3 Series models.
The M3 featured a 4.0 liter V8 engine with a cylinder bank angle of 90 degrees. The road version of the BMW M3 generated more than 258 kW (350 hp). The road version was kept as technically close as possible to the racing version. The only differences was the dry sump lubrication, a 6-speed gearbox, the variable M differential lock, a two-disc sports clutch and the very light V8 engine.
The rear spoiler, the roof and the front and rear aprons were made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic that aided in reducing the weight of the M3, just like the race version. The aerodynamic body was enhanced by both the extended front and rear apron and the rear spoiler. The powerplant's thermal well-being was controlled by additional cooling slits in the bonnet.
Featuring a much lowered suspension and mass amounts of sporty suspension settings, the BMW M3 GTR has a compact V8 high-performance engine that allows for optimum weight distribution, along with 19-inch wheels that guarantees amazing handling properties. The base price for a 2001 BMW M3 GTR Street Version is approximately $250,000.
For the 2000 season the M3 coupe and convertible sat out before undergoing a refresh in the spring of 2001. Featuring 333-horsepower six –cylinder engines, the newest M3 now had 100 hp more than the regular 3 Series models. Unveiled in January 2001 at Detroit's North American International Auto Show, the M3 convertible followed the coupe that had debuted nine months earlier at the New York Auto Show. Priced at a whopping $45,970, according the BMW, the soft top M3 'is the only true high-performance full four-seat convertible in its market segment.'
Similar in appearance and dimensions to the regular BMW 330Ci coupe and convertible, the M editions carry very distinct differences that include a cross-hatch center air intake, elliptical fog lights and a new bumper and spoiler ensemble. Allowing for more space for the M engine below, a new aluminum hood has subtle ‘power dome' accenting. To accommodate the wide tires, the wheels openings are flared outward by an additional 20 millimeters. The side mirrors on the M series have a distinct aero shape while ‘gills' behind the front wheel openings display an M3 emblem.
At the rear is a subtle decklid spoiler that is above a special M bumper/apron design. The M3 models also feature a wider front and rear track than BMW models, along with a unique suspensions and underbody components.
Basically identical from the front end to the A-pillar, the third-generation M3 coupes and convertible featured a rising beltline that imparts a visually lower stance to the convertible. 54 inches tall, the M3 coupe measure 176.7 inches in length. The fabric top of the M3 folds into a variable stowage compartment which offers increased storage capacity when the top is raised. Satin chrome finished wheels are featured with 18-inch tires on both M3 models. In case a serious pressure loss occurs, a new tire-pressure control monitor alerts the driver.
The coupe and convertible both had room for four and featured black M cloth along with Nappa leather upholstery. The M3 coupe featured three types of sport seats, the standard 10-way manual, eight-way power in a Luxury Package or the unique new M sports seats as a separate option. The new M sports seats featured 14-way power adjustment along with adjustable backrest side bolsters. The M3 convertible featured standard power front seats; which was an easy-entry featured that made it easier to gain access to the backseat.
The M3 featured standard equipment that included power windows, power heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control. The convertible featured a heated glass rear window as a standard option along with a power-operated top. Only one button initiated the entire top-down operation from unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising a rigid magnesium cover before closing it again. The convertible also featured a wind deflector along with a removable aluminum hardtop. Available options were an optional roof rack and BMW's Park Distance Control system, a navigation system and a moonroof for the M3 coupe.
The BMW M-edition received the all new 333-hp, 3.2 –liter inline –six cylinder with continuous variable valve timing. The engine in the M3 features 93 more hp than its M predecessor from the previous generation. A new Getrag six-speed-manual transmission is featured along with a new M Variable Differential Lock that enhances both handling and traction on slippery surfaces.
Dynamic Stability Control, BMW's electronic stability system, combined traction control along with cornering-stability enhancement. This was the first time this system was installed in an M3. The convertible was capable of reaching 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds. The M3 Coupe reached 60 mph in only 4.8 seconds. To aid the driver and keep from over-revving a cold engine, a warming zone on the tachometer changes as the engine warms up, until it reaches the full 8,000-rpm ‘redline' limit.
The BMW M3 featured dual front airbags, all-disc antilock brakes and seat-integrated side-impact airbags all as standard featured. In the event of an impending rollover, a Rollover Protection System in the convertible automatically deploys stabilizer bars behind the rear seats. Optional are rear-seat side-impact airbags along with daytime running lights.Jessica Donaldson
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