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BMW M3 - What Car?
01.11.2000 |
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It's best to think of the latest BMW M3 as a slightly rebellious younger brother for the seminal M5.
Eschewing the subtle approach of its predecessor, it harks back to the road-racer appeal of the '86 original.
The power bulge in the aluminium bonnet really gives the game away. It's necessary to accommodate the new 3.2 litre straight six and the 343bhp it produces, but it's also in keeping with the prominent chin spoiler and flared wheel arches that give the car a planted, aggressive stance. This M3 will never be confused with a standard 3 Series.
Nor will the driving experience. With so much power available it's searingly rapid - 0-62mph takes just 5.2sec - but it's the pulling power that really impresses. A maximum of 269lb ft is offered at 4900rpm, which not only provides effortless overtaking potential, but also makes the M3 a doddle to drive in town, with 6th gear happy to pull from 1500rpm.
For press-on driving, there's a 'sport' button on the centre console which alters the engine management system to provide a sharper throttle response. Now the M3 really comes alive. The engine is never less than vocal but plays such a wonderful tune that you'll want to exploit it. The M3 feels much more nimble than the larger M5, turning in more sharply and exhibiting terrific body control, although the ride is firm.
All the major controls work with the well-honed precision that we've come to expect from BMW. The gear-change is sweet and accurate and the brakes stop proceedings with the force of a Lewis jab. The only slight disappointment is the steering, which lacks the intimate feedback of a Porsche helm.
Even when the urge to play Schumacher recedes a little, the M3 is still an accomplished companion. The plush cabin contains niceties as air-conditioning, sports seats for four and exquisite M-Power detailing like the three-spoke steering wheel. Safety is also well provided for with front, side and head airbags fitted as standard.
Verdict
At a likely £38,500, the M3 is almost double the price of a 318i, but to judge the two as brethren is to miss the point. The M3 is really a separate model and a genuine sports car fit to rival a Porsche 911. Viewed this way, it looks like a bargain.