Spied 2014 F80 M3 Sedan

Spied: 2014 F80 M3 Sedan Gets Power Dome (Hood Bulge)!

We've just spied this afternoon this F80 M3 sedan prototype showing a power dome / hood bulge for the first time. The M3 may have now entered the FEP (Final Evaluation Phase) stage of testing. Until now some M enthusiasts have been disappointed to see the lack of a power dome on previous prototypes, but this mule confirms that the F80 M3 and F82 M4 will feature an aggressively shaped hood.

The rest of the camouflage remains as concealing as on prior mules. As seen clearly, the M3 kidney grilles are sportier than the F30 3 Series, yet not as thin nor wide as the recently exposed F82 M4 coupe grilles (pictured below for comparison). The headlights underneath the camo may (unconfirmed) also be a sleeker version of the F30 headlights, although they will join the headlights like the F30.

The sideskirts are also different than on previous mules, now with an upswoop at its end.
The side shots of the prototype show that the headlights will appear to be more recessed as a result of the beefy front bumper extending out further than on the F30 (think of the 1M headlight-bumper compared to the standard 1 Series). The production side view mirrors (which also be sportier in shape) have not yet been installed on any prototypes.

All in all, the appearance of a power dome, together with the super flared wheel arches and still-covered M body styling, is shaping the F80 M3 to be an aggressive looking sports sedan!

The F80 M3 / F82 M4 will be powered by an inline 6 cylinder engine with multiple turbochargers, pushing approximately 450 horsepower. The engine has been rumored to be an extensively reworked and reinforced N55 6-cylinder engine with a strengthened aluminium block with a heavily modified cylinder head. The Induction technology is said to be completely new as will be the latest bi-vanos variable valve timing. But, we also think there may be a possibility that the engine turns out to be a reworked/enhanced version of a successor engine to the N55 (which has not yet been introduced). Both a DCT and manual transmission will be available. The blue brakes resemble the new 3 Series' M Sport brakes, paired with steel cross drilled rotors.

The following is a summary of the facts we can be certain of regarding the F80 M3 / F82 M4:

•Lighter than current M3

•Faster than current M3

•More powerful than current M3

•More efficient than current M3

•Powered by an inline 6 cylinder turbo engine

•Offered with optional or standard manual transmission

•Electric Power Steering (completely reworked for precision for M3/M4)

Source: BimmerPost

BMW X1, Almost here!!

BMW unwraps Lime Rock Park special Edition of the M3

The BMW M3 is preparing to make its way out while a new generation prepares to step in. The current model though has still some life in it and to prove this point, the Bavarian carmaker unveils a special edition that was specifically developed for its consumers in North America in tribute of the Lime Rock Park in the northwestern portion of Connecticut.

The race track is operated and owned by Skip Barber, and the special edition BMW M3 Lime Rock Park aims to honor its long-time relationship with the race track, race drivers, and the fans that attend the events throughout the years.

The Lime Rock Edition of the BMW M3 will come with several enhancements that has been selected based on the collaboration of the designers with Lime Rock Park and Skip Barber.

The special edition M3 is based on the 2013 model of the coupe and will come in a customized body finish in Fire Orange. The interior gets an all black trim and Napa leather treatment. The Competition Package for the BMW M3 is also installed plus other elements like an Alcantara steering wheel that is flat on the bottom, carbon fiber aerodynamics elements, and inconel-titanium muffler.

Each of the special edition M3 will be marked with a unique number plaque that can be found on the center console, a decal on the quarter window on the rear left side, and a certification to prove its authenticity. Only 200 units will be produced.

There will be no major changes to the drivetrain. The output of the four-liter V-8 is pegged at 414 horses and produces a torque of 295 lb-ft. The car manufacturer did not mention about any specific gearbox so most likely that this M3 will get the 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox or a 6-speed manual transmission.

The M3 Lime Rock Park special edition can be in your garage starting at $70,995 plus destination charges. Delivery will start by September this year. With only 200 rolling out, we expect this M3 to go fast.

Source: BMW Talk