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Driving Machine

EPISODE 7: M3 & M4 EXPLAINED.

EPISODE 7: M3 & M4 EXPLAINED.

4 min reading time

The drive train of BMW M3 and M4.

BMW M developer Stefan explains the drive train of the new BMW M3 Competition and BMW M4 Competition.

2 February 2021

The epitome of racing feeling in everyday traffic starts a new round. 35 years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW M GmbH presents the latest generation of its high-performance automobiles in the premium mid-size segment. Time to introduce the two new vehicles. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers have the floor.

The seventh video in our series is all about maximum propulsion. BMW M developer Stefan explains the drivetrain of the BMW M3 Competition and M4 Competition. He also answers questions from the M Community.

BMW M3 Sedan [1] :
Fuel consumption combined in l/100 km   10.1
CO2 emissions combined in g/km   230
CO2 class   G
BMW M4 Competition Coupé [1] :
Fuel consumption combined in l/100 km   9.9
CO2 emissions combined in g/km   223
CO2 class   G
EPISODE 07: DRIVETRAIN COMPETITION MODELS.

EPISODE 07: DRIVETRAIN COMPETITION MODELS.

Start Video

BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.

Why have you stepped away from dual-clutch setup?

Stefan: The new 8-speed M Steptronic offers a widespread between sporty use and comfort. Furthermore, it enables the introduction of M xDrive also for BMW M3/M4 for the very first time. We could utilize our very good experience of the BMW M8/M8 Competition as a starting point for calibrating it for BMW M3/M4 Competition.

BMW M in a drift.

What are the main differences between DCT and the new transmission in track day use?

Track performance of the new BMW M3 and M4 Competition is superior compared to its predecessor.

What is the max torque the transmission is capable of?

The identical transmission is being used in the new BMW M5 CS with 750Nm as well - just a differentiated calibration.

Can it cause a problem by clicking on the paddle shifters while in automatic?

No, that would not be a problem at all. When clicking the paddle shifters while being in D mode you will temporarily switch gears. After a while, when you do not click the paddles anymore in between, it will return to the fully automatic D programme - we call this feature "Tip-in D".

Paddle shifters.

Will driving with manual shifting only harm the transmission over time?

No, there is no issue with either the transmission or the engine when driving in sequential mode all the time.

Do you implement "over boost" mode for extra power when needed?

All power is available when you press the accelerator pedal 100%. No hidden reserves.

What is the optimum temperature range for performance driving?

The cars are tested on specific racetrack long runs at hot summer temperatures. However, due to thermodynamical efficiency, cooler temperatures are better for performance.

Do transmission and drivetrain suffer from launch control starts?

Extensive use of launch control is of course causing more wear and tear to the components.

Does the engine match the revs while downshifting, like heel and toe?

Yes, the 8-speed M Steptronic uses rev matching while downshifting.

BMW M3 and M4 waiting to go.

Does the new BMW M3 and M4 have a rev limiter?

Yes, there is a rev limiter for the engine which is set at 7,200 rpm.

If we hold down the left paddle to overtake, should we worry about spinning the crankhub?

No, there is no risk of getting above the engine's rev limiter while downshifting - no matter how long you hold down the paddle.

With overtake, does the accelerator pedal still have a kickdown button?

Yes, the pedal still has a kickdown button.

How fast does the M4 Competition go from 100 to 200 km/h?

The new BMW M4 Competition runs from 100-200km/h in 8.6 sec.

Back of a BMW M4.

What boost pressure is stock for the S58 in the BMW M3 and M4?

The new BMW M3/M4 run at 1.3 bars, the competition models at 1.7 bars relative boost pressure.

Can you start in Sport Plus mode?

Yes, that is possible. All you have to do is select Sport Plus in the SETUP menu before turning the engine on.

Do the drive modes affect the suspension in any way? If so, how?

The M Drive concept allows for independent setup of all individual systems - steering, suspension, brakes, DSC, Drivelogic … Hence, changes to the Drivelogic mode of the transmission do not affect other system settings at all.

Is there an "individual" mode where you can set up things how you personally like it?

Yes, you can store your preferred system settings for all individual systems using the M Drive feature - directly selectable via the red M1 and M2 buttons on the steering wheel.

Is any specific engine cooling done to increase performance in track mode?

Engine cooling as well as transmission cooling work independently of the M Mode concept. Depending on the actual conditions - namingly temperatures, loads, vehicle speed - the cooling system will be engaged to its full potential.

What car do you drive?

BMW M3 Convertible (E46), Carbon black over Cinnamon leather.

What was your first car?

My first car was a BMW 318i E30.

What is your favourite old school BMW?

For me it is the M3 E30.

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Next article

[1] Performance data of petrol engines apply to vehicles using RON 98 fuel. Fuel consumption data apply to vehicles using reference fuels in accordance with EU Regulation 715/2007. Unleaded RON 91 and higher with a maximum ethanol content of 10% (E10) may also be used. BMW recommends RON 95 fuel. For high-performance automobiles, BMW recommends RON 98 fuel.

Range depends on various factors, in particular: individual driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, heating/air conditioning, pre-conditioning.

For plug-in hybrid: Electric drive depending on battery charging level.

For plug-in hybrid: At temperatures below freezing, the fully electric drive system is only available after a few kilometres of driving, once the battery has heated to operational temperature.

For plug-in hybrid: Composed of combustion engine drive and electric drive. Electric drive depending on battery charging level.

For models with Boost function: Temporary uprating <10 seconds in excess of specified nominal value.

The models illustrated include optional equipment. Due to regular software updates, screen designs in the communication may differ from the actual screen design in your car.

All vehicles, equipment, combination possibilities and varieties shown here are examples and can differ in your country. In no way do they constitute a binding offer by the BMW M GmbH. Visit your local BMW website or see your authorised BMW M Retailer for accurate details on the offers in your country.

Official data for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, power consumption and electric range was determined in accordance with the prescribed measuring procedure and corresponds to European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the applicable version. For ranges, data determined as per WLTP takes into account any optional equipment (available on the German market in this case). For vehicles that have been newly type approved since 1 January 2021, only the official data according to WLTP exists. For more information about NEDC and WLTP measuring procedures visit www.bmw.com/wltp

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