BMW changes up gear with M3

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

BMW has raised the level of handling dynamics in its new M3 with a set-up called the variable M differential lock.

It's basically a sophisticated limited-slip differential. But allied to the car's Dynamic Stability Control system and the anti-lock brakes, it anchors the car's rear to provide outstanding levels of traction, say European testers.

BMW itself says the new differential "gives the M3 driving qualities in winter previously regarded as quite impossible with a rear-wheel-drive sportscar."

It also gives keen drivers the chance to explore the high tolerance of the car's dynamics when the DSC system is turned off.

The ultimate BMW performance car is expected to go on sale in New Zealand about the middle of next year. No word on price yet, certainly not while the New Zealand dollar is on life support.

The new, slightly bigger M3 is the final addition to the E46 3-Series range launched in 1998. But its purposeful stance and improved potency clearly separates it from the others and adds to the model's reputation as a timeless performance car.

The in-line 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine has been further improved to give it one of the best specific power outputs (kilowatts per litre of engine size) of any naturally aspirated production car, thanks largely to BMW's double VANOS variable valve system.

Power is up 6.9 per cent from 232kW to 252kW at 7900 rpm and torque is up 4.3 per cent to 360Nm. But despite its high running speeds the engine offers a wide range of pulling power, 80 per cent available from 2000 rpm.

All this oomph translates to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h, a zero to 100 km/h split of 5.2 sec, and acceleration in fourth gear between 80 and 120 km/h in 5.4 sec.

The M3 comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. The unit is virtually unchanged from the previous model, except for a revision which allows the driver to exceed 100 km/h in second gear.

There is talk, however, that an improved SMG (sequential manual gearbox) might be optional. The previous SMG was criticised for its shifting qualities.

The suspension contains no surprises - struts and coil springs at the front and a multi-link set-up at the back.

But BMW says the springs and dampers have revised settings and the rack and pinion steering has been tuned "to enhance the previous model's handling to an even higher standard." A wider track and massive 18-inch wheels have helped too.

The brakes have been beefed up to suit the car's improved performance but BMW has redesigned them to reduce heat and increase service life. A tyre pressure warning device monitors the wheels and triggers an alarm if significant pressure is lost.

The previous M3 was launched in 1994 with a 3.0-litre engine. It quickly earned a reputation as a genuine Porsche rival, despite it looking like a regular 3-Series with fancy wheels. BMW updated the car mid-life, boosting the engine to 3.2 litres.

But the latest M3 is more of an individual, clearly apart from the pack. And its muscular elegance identifies it as something special. Even its exterior mirrors are sleeker and slimmer.

Inside, the car comes with sports seats which can be electrically adjusted every which way, including the side bolsters, and air-conditioning with separate temperature controls for the driver and passenger.

The safety package includes eight airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes, stability control and everything else the class demands.