The latest F80 M3 spotting gives us the best look yet at its newest revealed features --
double slat kidney grilles and a
double-bubble carbon fiber roof.
Both the F80 M3 and F82 M4 will continue BMW's latest trend to fit M models with
double slat kidney grilles with a model badge affixed. The M6 and M5 LCI all feature this design.
And multiple M3 prototypes have now been spied with a camouflaged top, indicating a carbon fiber roof - first
in the U.S. and now in Germany. The closeup photos we've posted show that the carbon fiber roof will have a sporty
double-bubble shape - like the F82 M4 prototypes and M6 Coupes / Gran Coupes. A lightweight CF roof will also help to lower the F80 M3's center of gravity as well as shaving critical pounds off its weight.
As for performance, to recap, we previously reported on information gleaned from the M4 prototype's registered VIN information (
see here).
According to the VIN info, the M3 will be powered by a
310kW (415 hp) 3.0L inline 6 engine (s55) [
photos]. Consistent with the information
we've been posting, this would have the next M3 and M4 featuring similar horsepower figures to the current M3 (414 hp) from the 3.0L inline 6 multi-turbo s55 engine. But, we've also been previously told by trusty sources familiar with F80/F82 development that the cars will boast approximately
100 lb-ft more torque (in range of 395 lb-ft) (
source) and nearly 8000 RPM redline (
source).
Expect the F80 M3 to be available in the first half of next year.
Also see:
F80 M3 / F82 M4 Spy Photos, Videos, and Facts/Rumors Compilation
Follow our F80 M3 coverage at:
http://www.bimmerpost.com/m3/f80m3/