"I always advise to my M-Drivers..." (another first impression)

[IMrMark]

"...that they should test drive with the throttle open."

These words had been uttered to us from the poor BMW rep with such directness, perhaps with even a hint of excitement, as the engine of last night's test drive roared to life.

"Oh, more than happy to oblige!" said my companion, holding back a grin as we eyed the straightaway before us. The car: a mineral grey M3, complete with DCT, Adaptive Suspension, standard M brakes, sunroof (!) and around 100 well earned test drive miles already on the clock from prior drivers. "Well, she's definitely a beautiful car," he noted while bringing the car to bear on the straightaway near the dealership. My friend had brought his 2008 M5 to the dealership for what we believed to be a quick back to back comparison of the new M3. He's actually in the market for a new car, it turns out, and he came in with some hesitation towards the consideration of downgrading to the new M3. Before I continue: you should never, ever, confuse this car for a standard 3er in MG. With the sunroof this car had, I thought it would be grossly similar seeming but... it really wasn't (to me).

I wanna go fast.

"The power feels so immediate and consistent," I call out as he kicks off the acceleration of this beast, "but don't forget to keep it under 5000." Looking back, I'm not sure why I thought to add in the last bit. Maybe it was to offset the guilt of what I knew had to be on the menu. My friend was thinking he wanted another M5 - so, to see if the new M3 was anywhere near what he was looking for, this car was going to be put through the paces. Given the advice we received at the onset, really.. why did I even bother.

"Right! But - My God - God - this is fast! this is power!" he replied, quickly realizing that the DCT had obliterated any past impression of BMWs work with paddle-shifted manuals (coming from the SMG of his M5). "I really don't think this is the appropriate speed for a test drive." The shifts had been so quick, precise, and down right disturbing in their accuracy - and had brought us to a speed so insanely (and consistently) delivered that I think I'm best to keep it to myself rather than publish on a public forum. The quarter mile-ish distance had been obliterated to such degree that my friend mused out loud if his current v10 really held ground above the TurboCharged I6 at his fingertips. Only one way to be sure of the consistency.

"Let's do that again."

Before circling around, we navigated off the main road and along a bit of a curvy, more rural, setting. A quick series of twists and turns for good measure; after-all, it's not just the straights that we're after. The results were as many had expressed in many first impressions thus-far: "Planted. Absolutely fabulous. She doesn't budge." We felt a chirp of the rear at one point during our bit of back and forth, with the engagement of the MDM catching us and ultimately making my friend's driving seem way more professional than it was. Then, in a snap, we were pulling back onto the main road, and the near-instant delivery of the well documented slew of horses presented themselves once again. "Just incredible, this car - I had no idea they could make an I6 like this" he gushed after the next bit of straightaway, while simultaneously giving the standard brakes a solid test. They bite... hard, and that's in a good way.

but seriously, did I mention how good it sounds?

When asked about the active sound, my friend paused for a moment drawing a bit of a blank look on his face. "You know, sir, if you hadn't just reminded me of that.. honestly, I'd forgotten. I would never have guessed it otherwise." Did I mention this car has a roar all its own? The BMW rep who came along with us was quite insistent than active sound in the new M3 is not the same as what is found in the M5. I mean really insistent. At this point, tho, I've heard it all and just don't care. This will continue to be a subjective topic overall for some people I'm sure. For us though, windows up or down, didn't matter - this car not only felt alive, it had the sound of a well bred pornstar to back it up. I mean that. Lady in the street, freak in the... well, you know.

Yes, it definitely sounds like a turbo car. At idle, anyone who has been in or around other turbo applications will likely recognize the slight humming consistent across many a turbocharged car. This is not bad, and does not sound like a prius!

herp de derp

The smallest hint of lag mentioned by others was, in fact, noticed and... honestly, confusing. It seemed nothing like driving a traditional turbocharged application however; the full delivery of all that power once spool was (nearly immediately) achieved makes it almost impossible to remember that you had any sort of momentary pause to begin with. But we felt no difference between Sport or Sport+ modes - the anti-lag that has been mentioned so many times seemed absent. Our BMW guide wasn't sure of the minor details that might be at play there, and... to be really forward about it, we could have cared less in the moment. We really, really, could've cared less... but I'll be trying to scour down more info there, personally.

Yes, I know, we're terrible human beings for taking the car for a spirited drive so early in it's life. I'm sure this morning I'll find no parking at the metro, my computer will crash, and other universe-score-settling such events will occur. None-the-less, we felt that the car's performance was extremely consistent throughout and above 5000rpm, with any perception of "flat" simply being that of sensory trickery in our own bodies, perhaps in feeling the full power delivery so early on and adapting to it as we were propelled through the range. I understand there is always going to be some form of drop off as you near the top end, but I don't feel like there is any sort of disappointment in that area. YMMV as everyone will likely continue to have a different impression.

boy toy?

I will say that my friend did echo the earlier comment made by another M5 poster here, "It's like a really fantastic go kart!" Upon hearing that comment, I responded with what another on these boards has said, comparing the higher M models to really comfortable (blazingly capable) sofas. He chuckled a bit and agreed, these are different cars for different drivers. Those who want more of a touring feel, and are willing to accept what can be a significant weight difference (along with the higher level of "refinement" and options), may pass the M3 over. For him, he needed an M-car he could commute with (mileage improvement being nice), feel extremely comfortable in, and be excited to drive (track days tossed in there once and a while for good measure). Did the M3 pass muster? God yes. If that means I have to be 15 and awkward again, lucky me. She truly is a marvel.

where are the pics!?

As for photos, I only grabbed a couple that I thought would be worthwhile; 1) showing what I think is a good representation of the lines of the car in MG, given the lighting of the time and 2) a closer up view of the LED package. I know these aren't really unique or fantastic compared to what's out there, but I'd been hoping to see more of this myself so it's what I captured to share with others.

sum it up for me

I'd wrap this up with this: after about an hour, we walked away feeling that the car is a delight, full of all the naughty bits one could hope for - begging you to take it hard and fast, but equally content to slide elegantly by with only the slightest hint of debauchery to those around, all while providing excellent luxury and technical feel. Albert Biermann is truly... well, Santa, for lack of a better thought. The entire M-team has brought all the toys and refinement that seem fully deserving of the M3 name, in my humblest of opinions, while keeping apace with modern requirements and technology.



disclaimers:
yes, of course I'm biased, I have this car on order. So sue me!
my ownership comparison history: 2003 Subaru WRX (Stage 2), 2008 VW GTi (stock), 2008 Subaru WRX (stock)
obviously new to BMW ownership personally, but hopefully you guys find the impressions worthwhile regardless

[Money2536]

Nicely done sir! I'm guessing getting an M4 is a bit of a culmination of sports car evolution for you. I think I'm just as excited to get my second one. I have refrained from test driving or even going to see a car in person to ensure maximum gratification at delivery.

[Sedan_Clan]

Most people rave about the car........as many people who have been around long enough predicted. I'm glad the car is a hit!

[M3Power79]

This was a nice reading!

[RPiM5]

Extremely well written. Dare I say that the Artificial Sound Design of the F8x M3/M4 produces a better interior cabin sound than that of a stock S85 V10 E60 M5 engine? I only say this because I got to ride in a stock E60 M5 last week and I thought the interior sound of the F80 M3 that I drove was louder than the fully natural sound of the V10 engine.

[JoeFromPA]

Regarding being flat up top, technically it is: It's power continues at it's maximum level in a flat pace for ~2000 rpms. That is flat - power is not continuing to build.

But this should not be confused with "falls off up top" which I think some reviewers may be confusing it with. I've driven cars, like your WRX, whose last 1000 RPMs drop power like it's going out of style. They are not flat, they "run out of gas" as if the fuel pump can no longer supply the car.

I literally can't think of another car I've driven that has a 2000 RPM range at the top of the tach in which it's producing the exact same amount of HP. Therefore, I imagine it'll be a totally unique feeling

[IMrMark]

Originally Posted by JoeFromPA

Regarding being flat up top, technically it is: It's power continues at it's maximum level in a flat pace for ~2000 rpms. That is flat - power is not continuing to build.

But this should not be confused with "falls off up top" which I think some reviewers may be confusing it with. I've driven cars, like your WRX, whose last 1000 RPMs drop power like it's going out of style. They are not flat, they "run out of gas" as if the fuel pump can no longer supply the car.

I literally can't think of another car I've driven that has a 2000 RPM range at the top of the tach in which it's producing the exact same amount of HP. Therefore, I imagine it'll be a totally unique feeling

Hehe - yes, probably should have said more specifically that it doesn't "fall" flat.. You are correct that it would not continue to build, as full power was available basically at the onset! And lord the turbo charged experience was like night and day between WRX, as damn well it should/had better

[IMrMark]

Originally Posted by RPiM5

Extremely well written. Dare I say that the Artificial Sound Design of the F8x M3/M4 produces a better interior cabin sound than that of a stock S85 V10 E60 M5 engine? I only say this because I got to ride in a stock E60 M5 last week and I thought the interior sound of the F80 M3 that I drove was louder than the fully natural sound of the V10 engine.

You know, several times he noted he was hard pressed on which sounded better. Even back in his car on the way home, you got a feel for where I think they were going with the sound. Similarities are still there for sure. Still no way to make a comparison at idle though. They're just different animals. Not good or bad, I just think incomparable.

[IMrMark]

Originally Posted by M3Power79

This was a nice reading!

Thanks! I've enjoyed everyone else's so wanted to contribute

[IMrMark]

Originally Posted by Money2536

Nicely done sir! I'm guessing getting an M4 is a bit of a culmination of sports car evolution for you. I think I'm just as excited to get my second one. I have refrained from test driving or even going to see a car in person to ensure maximum gratification at delivery.

Work hard, play hard. luckily congress agrees with me and was willing to allow for the detour on our upcoming trip to make it all possible. I agree with you on holding out..... I convinced myself that the m3 and m4 are different so it doesn't count?

[IMrMark]

Originally Posted by Sedan_Clan

Most people rave about the car........as many people who have been around long enough predicted. I'm glad the car is a hit!

hoping to become part of and stay in the community for a long time! Be one of those old guys raving about the next iteration 7 years from now tho I expect this one to be with me for a long long time.

[Money2536]

Originally Posted by IMrMark

hoping to become part of and stay in the community for a long time! Be one of those old guys raving about the next iteration 7 years from now tho I expect this one to be with me for a long long time.

I'm sure you'll become one of the old guy purists that say that M cars are dead and the F8X is the only true M car.

[SOM3]

Originally Posted by RPiM5

Extremely well written. Dare I say that the Artificial Sound Design of the F8x M3/M4 produces a better interior cabin sound than that of a stock S85 V10 E60 M5 engine? I only say this because I got to ride in a stock E60 M5 last week and I thought the interior sound of the F80 M3 that I drove was louder than the fully natural sound of the V10 engine.

How many times we're going to go over this: It is engine noise just amplified, it is not artificial as in M5.

Thank you and have a nice day.

[JoeFromPA]

Originally Posted by SOM3

How many times we're going to go over this: It is engine noise just amplified, it is not artificial as in M5.

Thank you and have a nice day.

Umm, that was the original belief based upon M quotes. It's no longer accurate.

The most accurate statement would be,

"The M3 mics in actual engine noise and amplifies it with artificial elements to reach the designed interior perception of engine/exhaust sound."

[Money2536]

Originally Posted by JoeFromPA

Umm, that was the original belief based upon M quotes. It's no longer accurate.

The most accurate statement would be,

"The M3 mics in actual engine noise and amplifies it with artificial elements to reach the designed interior perception of engine/exhaust sound."

In other words, some people, like me, will be deleting it as soon as there is a solution and aftermarket exhausts are available. Although, I really like the 911 solution with their Sound Symposer. I guess we'll see. My dealer just send me a text to let me know their launch cars just showed up. I'm torn on whether I want to go see it or not.

[JoeFromPA]

Yep.

I personally just want "comfort" mode to yield a close-to-F30 like interior driving environment for highway cruising. I expect a bit more of everything, of course, but I drove 250 miles yesterday to north jersey and back. Pure highway and stop and go. I do this regularly. Part of my 'everyday car' demands is that it be enjoyable in that environment from a noise/comfort/performance blend perspective.

I will say that the video taken with in-ear microphones should probably be discounted to a large extent because of the rain. Rain creates a much noisier environment - it's noisier to drive through, it splashes up on the undercarriage, it smacks the windshield, and of course it hits metal all around you as it falls.

[SOM3]

Originally Posted by JoeFromPA

Umm, that was the original belief based upon M quotes. It's no longer accurate.

The most accurate statement would be,

"The M3 mics in actual engine noise and amplifies it with artificial elements to reach the designed interior perception of engine/exhaust sound."

Where did you get this? Link?

[JoeFromPA]

Honestly it's been all over this forum for maybe 3-4 weeks. Many different places, including revised quotes from M.

I'll see what I can find quickly and edit this post. If you don't see something from me, search.

Edit: Here ya go: http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=991627

"“The engine note in the cabin is largely pure,” said BMW M head of project management Carston Pries at the international launch of the new M3 and M4. “The electronic noise is minimized and only makes up 2% to 3% of the sound you hear.”"

"MotoringResearch reports the results of the latest Active Sound approach are impressive, particularly at high revs, with a rawness lacking in the BMW M5. It minutely varies in intensity and pitch according to engine load and accelerator position – a level of detail lacking in the M5′s Active Sound system, and a key reason why it’s now so convincing. Critically, many will never guess it’s electronically assisted…"

...

BMW continues to hem and haw over this a bit. The bottom line is it is NOT just mic'd in sound. Nor is it just Mic'd in sound "amplified".

It is also altered electronically based upon throttle position and engine load.

It's not a totally artificial/made-up sound like the M5, and I want to stress that. But neither is it totally natural sound.

[SOM3]

Originally Posted by JoeFromPA

Honestly it's been all over this forum for maybe 3-4 weeks. Many different places, including revised quotes from M.

I'll see what I can find quickly and edit this post. If you don't see something from me, search.

Edit: Here ya go: http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=991627

"“The engine note in the cabin is largely pure,” said BMW M head of project management Carston Pries at the international launch of the new M3 and M4. “The electronic noise is minimized and only makes up 2% to 3% of the sound you hear.”"

"MotoringResearch reports the results of the latest Active Sound approach are impressive, particularly at high revs, with a rawness lacking in the BMW M5. It minutely varies in intensity and pitch according to engine load and accelerator position – a level of detail lacking in the M5′s Active Sound system, and a key reason why it’s now so convincing. Critically, many will never guess it’s electronically assisted…"

...

BMW continues to hem and haw over this a bit. The bottom line is it is NOT just mic'd in sound. Nor is it just Mic'd in sound "amplified".

It is also altered electronically based upon throttle position and engine load.

It's not a totally artificial/made-up sound like the M5, and I want to stress that. But neither is it totally natural sound.

Oh good here is what I gathered from that article:

"Critically, there will also be no artificial sound generation – the electronic noise (which BMW calls Active Sound) will instead simply be a real-time amplification of induction noises actually produced by the engine."

Let's just put that to rest.

[smashhell]

Great writing style. You must be a professional writer. Great read, thank you.

[JoeFromPA]

Originally Posted by SOM3

Oh good here is what I gathered from that article:

"Critically, there will also be no artificial sound generation – the electronic noise (which BMW calls Active Sound) will instead simply be a real-time amplification of induction noises actually produced by the engine."

Let's just put that to rest.

My .02 on this front is to both read what BMW likes to stress and read the rest of the technical description of how they are doing this.

There is a reason they have spoken like politicians around this.

[Lups]

@IMrMark what do you do for living? I only ask, because when I rule the universe you are going to be forced to be a reporter.