2009 BMW M3 Coupe

More Photos

Since 1986, the label M3 has rhymed with high-speed autobahn dashes and fierce red light drag races. The M3 is undoubtedly the most famous sports car ever produced after the 911. The 2009 BMW M3 is the most powerful and insane M3 yet. With a brand new 4.0 liter 420hp engine the M3 can handle 0-100hm/h in 4.8 seconds and has the best handling of its segment. The brand new M3 becomes even more exciting when you find out it comes in three variants; coupe, 4-door and convertible. Yes it leaves the C63 AMG lagging behind on any of the most demanding tracks!

Specifications:
ENGINE:	4.0 liter V8	0-100km/h (62mph):	4.8 seconds
ASPIRATION:	Normal	TOP SPEED:	250km/h (limited) (155mph)
HP:	420hp	WEIGHT/HP:	3.96 kg/hp
HP/LITER:	105.0 hp/liter	1/4 MILE:	-
TORQUE:	295 ft-lb	1 KILOMETER:	-
WEIGHT:	1655kg (3649lbs)	PRICE:	-

BMW M3 COUPE Press Release
Most Powerful, Best Performing BMW M3 Ever Carries on Tradition of Race-Bred Performance

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – October 31, 2008 … BMW once again proves there is nothing inherently slow about evolution with the introduction of the 2009 M3 Coupe, fourth in the line of compact sport coupes that set the standard in minimizing any compromises between race-inspired performance and luxury and convenience. With a high-revving 414-horsepower V8 and balanced chassis designed to be “faster than its engine,” the motorsports arm of the German automaker, BMW M GmbH is offering the most powerful, best performing series production M3 to the North American market.

Racing provided the reason for the original M3’s 1986 creation as the company had to produce road-going homologation versions of its 3 Series Coupe to enter the motorsports version in the German Touring Car Championship. Popularity, proven by strong sales demand, provided the impetus to continue developing the M3, making it both a better performer and more inviting road car as it evolved along with the underlying 3 Series, the company’s most popular, upon which it is based.

In 1988 North Americans received their first taste of the high-rpm, naturally aspirated 2.3-liter four-cylinder M3 Coupe’s 192-hp and thus was born a legend on this side of the Atlantic. The next generation arrived in 1995 with a 3.0-liter (and later, 3.2-liter) 240-hp inline-six powerplant. That car began the next chapter of M3 racing history which would last for a decade. In 1997 the first M3 Sedan joined the family and the first M3 Convertible followed shortly thereafter. The most-recent version, available from 2001-2006 as either a coupe or convertible, again was offered with six-cylinder power, this time providing 333 hp from its 3.2 liters. From the 2002 model year, this vehicle featured BMW’s first use of SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) for the U.S. market.

The 2009 BMW M3 Coupe features a V8 engine, a first in a series production BMW M3 (along with its Sedan and Convertible counterparts) and will cost $58,325. It will also feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing engine response, steering, damping and stability (with an available steering-wheel-mounted “M Drive” button to store the preferences), and a sporting interior that can be optimized to the driver’s desires including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW’s 4th generation iDrive controller, which is new for 2009. Additionally, the M3 Coupe has received several option adjustments for the 2009 model: the optional M Double Clutch Transmission is available for $2,900; Le Mans Blue Metallic has been added as an exterior paint choice; and Sparkling Graphite Metallic is no longer available.

Lightweight, efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3

The move to eight cylinders in the fourth generation BMW M3 provides a powerplant offering the seemingly disparate characteristics of more power, increased efficiency and reduced weight when compared with the previous six-cylinder M3 engine. Displacing 3,999 cubic centimeters (4.0 liters), the new light-alloy engine produces 414 hp at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm with 85 percent of the maximum torque available consistently through 6,500 rpm. This power output represents a 24% increase over the six-cylinder from the last generation M3 and it comes with a 7% weight saving. Compression ratio is dialed in to 12.0:1 and redline is set at 8,400 rpm.

The V8 engine of the 2009 BMW M3 Coupe boasts the company’s variable double-VANOS camshaft management. Offering extremely fast and responsive valve timing, this technology reduces charge cycle losses and improves the output, torque and response of the engine, with a positive influence on fuel economy and emission management.

A separate throttle butterfly for each cylinder – eight in this instance – is a feature adapted from BMW M’s racing heritage and provides immediate reaction to the gas pedal at all times. Two stepper motors operate the four throttle butterflies on each row of cylinders, giving the engine a particularly sensitive response at low speeds together with an immediate reaction whenever the driver presses down the accelerator for extra power and performance.

A volume flow-controlled, pendulum-slide cell pump supplies the engine with lubricating oil, delivering the quantity required by the engine. Wet sump oil lubrication, optimized for dynamic performance, ensures consistent oil supply to the high-rpm engine at all times, particularly in extreme braking maneuvers. The system features two oil sumps—a small oil sump in front of the front axle subframe and a large oil sump behind it.

A new, comprehensive electronic management system coordinates all engine functions with optimum efficiency and maximizes operational integration with the clutch, gearbox, steering and brakes. In addition, the engine control unit performs a wide range of on-board diagnosis functions and masterminds the ancillary engine units.

A highlight of the engine management system is the use of ion-current technology to determine engine knock as well as misfire and poor combustion events within the cylinders. In contrast to conventional methods, this monitoring and control function is performed precisely where the phenomena occurs—within the combustion chambers. The spark plug in each cylinder senses and controls the risk of knocking, at the same time monitoring the correct ignition and recognizing any misfiring. In other words, the spark plug acts as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor monitoring the combustion process, and is therefore able to distinguish between a misfire and poor combustion. This dual function of the spark plugs facilitates the diagnostic procedures required in service and maintenance.

And the increased performance with better economy comes from the lightweight engine. At 445 pounds, it is 7% or 33 pounds lighter than the previous model’s Inline-6. Lightweight components do not stop with the alloy engine block. The crankcase is made of a special aluminum-silicon alloy eliminating the need for cylinder liners. Despite the need to resist high combustion pressures and engine speeds—this is the “fastest” production engine ever produced by BMW as it can reach 8,400 rpm—the engineers managed to keep the compact and rigid crankshaft weight down to 44 pounds.

Manual transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential Lock

Power from the BMW M3 Coupe’s V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The performance parameters of the M3 dictated heat management as a key design factor for both the transmission and clutch. The transmission features integrated temperature-dependent oil cooling management, while internal ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the twin-disc clutch.

The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces. Responding to differences in speed between the right and left rear wheel, the Variable M Differential Lock also offers ideal support further enhancing the positive features and characteristics of rear-wheel drive.


Optional M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic

In addition to the traditional 6-speed manual transmission, the new M3 is available with a unique 7-speed double clutch gearbox specially designed for a high-rpm engine. The M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic (M DCT Drivelogic) shifts gears without the slightest interruption in the flow of power. As a result, M DCT Drivelogic is able to extract the most performance possible from the car while also providing a smooth comfortable shift from one gear to the next.

The process of shifting gears is basically the same as on BMW’s proven Sequential M Gearbox, meaning that even when shifting gears manually there is no need for a clutch pedal and the driver may keep the gas pedal on the floor during the shift process.

The Drivelogic control offers 11 different shift programs to suit the needs of individual drivers. Drivelogic offers 5 programs that allow for automatic operation of the transmission as well as 6 manual programs. Manual operation can be performed via a new sports shift lever exclusive to the BMW M3 or via paddles on the steering wheel (pulling the right-hand paddle to shift up, the left paddle to shift down).
In its gearshift characteristics, M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic is ideally matched to the fast-revving V8 engine in the new BMW M3. For 2009, M DCT Drivelogic is available in the M3 Coupe (as well as the Sedan and Convertible) for $2,900.

Engineering a chassis which is “faster than its engine”

Providing sure-footed responsive handling for a high-performance, powerful and luxurious coupe, while keeping mass under control, presented numerous challenges for the BMW M3’s engineers. The result is a new, aluminum chassis developed specifically for this model. The design begins with placing components in such a way as to create a 51.2/48.8 front/rear weight balance.

Virtually all of the front-end components are aluminum, including the front struts, swivel bearings, central subframe and an additional thrust panel below the engine serving to maximize lateral stiffness of the entire front section.

From the rear axle subframe through the transverse arms and track arms, to the wheel mounts reconfigured in their kinematics and stiffness, to the mounting points for the longitudinal arms and the aluminum dampers, virtually every detail on the five-arm rear axle is made of aluminum and is new for this generation. These weight-reduction measures and materials help reduce weight by approximately 5.5 pounds when compared to the previous M3.

Both the front and rear axles feature hollow anti-roll bars optimized for their function and weight. Incorporating two additional longitudinal reinforcement bars, axle kinematics are perfectly tailored to the overall character of the car. The result, in terms of both stability and weight, conforms to the balanced performance concept of the BMW M3 Coupe.

Compound brake system

A suitably powerful braking system for a car with this much performance was specifically developed for the new M3. The internally-vented, cross-drilled cast iron discs measure 14.2 inches in diameter at the front and 13.8 inches in the rear. Featuring large compound disc brakes and electronic anti-lock, stopping power for the 2009 BMW M3 is strong, precise and consistent. Each disc is connected to a floating aluminum hub by cast-in stainless-steel pins. This configuration reduces the thermal loads on the discs, thus increasing their performance and service life. An electrically-driven pump provides the system’s vacuum power.

Service – and safety – are enhanced thanks to an integrated wear indicator which, through a dash display, allows the driver to monitor the condition of the brake linings. Brake service can thus be administered when necessary without guesswork.

Standard M-style light-alloy spoked wheels measure 18 x 8.5 inches with 245/40 low-profile tires at the front and 18 x 9.5 with 265/40 tires at the rear, can be supplemented by optional 19-inch versions in comparable widths and design.

Servotronic steering with two manually adjustable control maps

Rear-wheel drive keeps the rack-and-pinion steering of the BMW M3 Coupe free of drive forces. A further enhancement is hydraulic Servotronic power assistance controlling steering forces as a function of road speed. There is also a choice of two different control maps activated through normal and sport modes with a console-mounted button.

In Sport mode the BMW M3 provides direct and immediate response with a relatively high steering effort. In the Normal mode, power assistance is comfort-oriented and requires less steering effort.

Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control

The electronic Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) monitors driving conditions and intervenes through the application of brakes and reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3 and help avoid major over- or under-steer situations.

In addition to engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated in the DSC are Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the Start-Off Assistant, which prevents the car from rolling back when setting off on a grade, as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents the car from spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.

The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even greater driving safety. Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an immediate response. The Brake Drying feature removes water film from the discs in wet conditions, allow surer braking in the wet.

Electronic Damper Control recognizing the driver’s style of motoring

The optional Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to tailor the vehicle’s chassis dynamics to his or her preference through one of three modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort.

The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the dynamics of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the response of the car to his personal preferences.

The result of these many improvements to the chassis and suspension produced clear results on the race track with the new BMW M3 significantly outperforming the lap times of previous generations on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring, where all BMW M Cars are put through their paces for their ultimate test.

Optional M Drive personalizes the driving characteristics of the new BMW M3

The BMW M3 provides several standard and optional driver-controlled systems to tailor the driving characteristics to a driver’s personal preferences.

As standard equipment, the driver can choose, with conveniently located buttons:

• The Power button: Changes the throttle response between Normal, Sport, or SportPlus settings. The same button simultaneously changes the Servotronic steering assist from Comfort to Sport mode.

• DSC button: DSC may be switched off. As a default, the DSC will turn on again during the next start-up sequence.

• EDC button (Optional): The Electronic Damping Control is adjustable offering Sport, Normal and Comfort modes.

In addition to center console mount buttons, the above systems can be preprogrammed into the vehicle key – so that the car pre-selects your favorite driver settings when you start the car.

The 2009 BMW M3 will also be available with the steering wheel mounted M Drive button that made its first appearance in the M5. M Drive is included as part of the optional Technology Package, which also includes Electronic Damping Control, the BMW Navigation System with Real Time Traffic Data and the Comfort Access system that allows keyless operation of the vehicle.

In addition to allowing the programming of the driver selectable settings listed above, M Drive includes the M Dynamic Mode function for the DSC system, which allows for some wheel slip for very active driving while still maintaining much of the benefit of DSC. A push of the M Drive button will instantaneously activate the driver-selected configuration, turning the M3 into his or her personalized Ultimate Driving Machine. The settings are stored through menus shown on the dash-mounted screen and changed via the iDrive (located in the center console).

Brand-new in technology and design differentiates the M3 Coupe

The fourth generation BMW M3 Coupe differs greatly in looks as well as technical features from the latest 3 Series Coupe upon which it was developed. Apart from the car’s unique design as well as its drivetrain and suspension technology, conceived from the start for performance, lightweight technology came right at the top of the brief given to the engineers at BMW M. And the car’s power-to-weight ratio of 8.4 pounds per horsepower shows how well this goal was achieved.

A key factor in meeting this standard is the first production car within this segment to boast a roof made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic. The new BMW M3, with the exception of just a few components, is indeed completely new in its engineering and design concept, clearly reflecting the successful tradition of BMW M GmbH.

Apart from the load-bearing structure of the car, components carried over from the 3 Series Coupe are the two doors, the trunklid, the windows, the headlights and rear lights. All other body components were specially developed for the new BMW M3.

Athletic, sporting stance separates 2009 BMW M3 Coupe from the pack

Front to back, the design of the 2009 BMW M3 Coupe evokes a purposeful, sporting message in a package engineered, as are racing vehicles, for structural rigidity at the lightest most efficient weight thanks to the use of the most modern components and computer-aided design. The front end, clearly a BMW based on the double-kidney shaped grill, flat headlight units with standard Xenon headlamps, boasts three large air intakes below the grill. Since the structure and configuration is determined to primarily feed air into the engine compartment, the BMW M3 Coupe, like BMW M cars in general, intentionally forgoes fog lamps featured on 3 Series models.

The “face” of the 2009 BMW M3 also includes a power dome – flanked by an air intake on each side – in the middle of the hood which, though longer, and thanks to its aluminum composition is also lighter, than that of the 3 Series Coupe, blends harmoniously with the overall design,

The two front fenders boast a special sign of distinction characteristic of a BMW M car and referred to by the designers as “gills,” which incorporate the tri-color (blue/purple/red) M logo. Rear-view mirrors developed for the new BMW M3 fulfill an important aerodynamic function helping reduce air resistance. Further down the side-line, the pronounced side-sills give the BMW M3 a light and sporting look.

The 2009 BMW M3 Coupe looks muscular from behind, its design mirroring the look of the car’s front. A discreet lip spoiler on the trunklid optimizes the car’s streamlining and reduces lift on the rear axle. In its contours, the split diffuser beneath the rear bumper takes up the shape of the air intakes at the front of the car as the air guide and the dual tailpipes move towards the centerline of the car, visually contracting the rear end at the lower center point. The circular shape of the four straight tailpipes is pure BMW M style.
The four metallic paints reserved for BMW M cars (Melbourne Red, Jerez Black, Interlagos Blue and Silverstone) highlight the body, contours and proportions of the four-door with particular intensity. In addition to these unique hues, for 2009 the BMW M3 Coupe is available in Alpine White, Jet Black and the newly available Le Mans Blue Metallic.

Interior design oriented an active driving experience with luxury

The interior of the BMW M3 has always been a place designed for performance driving, but without compromising the comfort of the driver and passengers. The 2009 BMW M3 Coupe continues this tradition with the latest innovations. The four seats are surrounded by powerful contours and flowing lines highlighting in particular the concave and convex surfaces. The horizontal lines dominating the area around the dashboard as well as the harmonious surfaces of the side linings give the interior a dynamic note.

The cockpit control area tapers out between the front seats into a newly designed center console which discreetly “swings” towards the driver. Finished in black leather, the console harmoniously continues the instrument surrounds and the control area in terms of both color and shape, and incorporates three function switches (Power, DSC, and optional EDC) for activating and deactivating the electronic driving programs on the side facing the driver.

Apart from the clear design and optimum ergonomic arrangement of all controls and instruments, the choice of colors inside the 2009 BMW M3 Coupe helps the driver concentrate on driving. Regardless of the upholstery and trim color, the footwells, parcel shelf, headliner, A-pillar trim and the upper part of the instrument panel are all finished in Anthracite. This uniform, dark color scheme around the windshield helps the driver focus on driving.

There is no question as to the heritage of the vehicle upon opening the door of the 2009 BMW M3 thanks to the M car logo in the door sills. The unique nature of the vehicle carries to the dash where the dual circular instruments typical of BMW – the speedometer and fuel gauge as well as the tachometer and oil temperature display – are in specific M style. A feature typical of BMW M cars is the variable warning zone on the tachometer that informs the driver of the recommended engine speed depending on the engine oil temperature. The borderline between the yellow pre-warning zone and the red warning zone moves up as a function of increasing oil temperature to the maximum limit of 8,300 rpm. The digital displays presenting the time, the outside temperature and odometer, as well as the various warning lights, are positioned between the two circular instruments.

The M3’s leather steering wheel, with its thumb contours resting firmly in the driver’s hands, provides an optimum grip for precise movement of the steering wheel. The spokes within the steering wheel incorporate the remote control buttons for the audio system and mobile phone, as well as the optional M Drive button. An additional auxiliary button may be programmed through the optional BMW iDrive system.

As an option, both front seats are available with backrest-width adjustment, while the rear seats may be equipped with folding seatbacks which provides the 15.2 cubic foot luggage compartment even greater capacity.

A premium AM/FM/single-disc CD audio system comes standard with an auxiliary input jack. Individual entertainment options include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio and a USB-enabled port for control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player. These three options are bundled together in the Technology Package, should one choose to have them all together.

For 2009, vehicles equipped with Navigation, the comprehensive information and entertainment systems are controlled by BMW’s 4th generation iDrive system. The Navigation/iDrive option also brings the performance-oriented, steering-wheel-spoke-mounted M Drive button.