BMW M3 Spy Photos!

Article by Andreas Conradt
Copyright by AUTOMEDIA

A new version of one of the world's best-selling high-performance car is preparing for action – and we have the pictures that prove it. Only one week ago, we revealed for the very first time spy photos of the all-new BMW M3 Coupe. And now our spies have caught the car testing at the German Nurburgrin and the saloon in northern Sweden. The next-generation M3 is the first V8-engined 3-Series, and offers 400 bhp – so expect it to race from 0-100 km/h in a fraction over five seconds, and go on to a limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Power will be fed to the rear wheels via a six speed manual gearbox or the latest SMG sequential manual, possibly with seven ratios. The new car should maintain the M3's reputation for outstanding handling. The V8 will be more compact than the current in-line six
cylinder model, while a longer wheelbase will help with weight
distribution. Externally, the car takes many cues from the M5, with twin-exit exhausts, front wing vents and discreet 'M' badges, while the look of the all-new 3-Series means
an aggressive nose and deeply sculpted flanks. Expect to see the M3 in
showrooms at the end of 2006. It will come in saloon, coupe, cabrio and
estate guise.

Check out the full suite of photos in the BMW E90 M3 Spy Photo Gallery.