BMW M3 E90 LCI, facelift 2008 CRT 4.4 V8 (450 Hp) M DCT


Overall Rating

8.4 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 5.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.9 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW M3:

The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 and E90 generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate for the first time, alongside the saloon variant....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E90 LCI, facelift 2008 Overview:

BMW M3 (E90 LCI, facelift 2008). With 440 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1580 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 4.4 s). The top speed reaches 290 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

CRT 4.4 V8 (450 Hp) M DCT Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

The ultimate expression of the E90 M3, this limited-edition CRT boasts an enlarged 4.4L V8, delivering blistering acceleration and an intoxicating soundtrack. Paired with the M DCT, shifts are lightning-fast, making it incredibly potent.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption is high at 12.7 l/100 km combined, which is expected for a high-performance, naturally aspirated V8. This trim prioritizes power over efficiency.

Best Use Case: Track / Collector / Enthusiast Driving

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Iconic high-revving naturally aspirated S65 V8 engine sound and character
  • • Exceptional handling and steering precision for a sports sedan
  • • Timeless design and strong M car presence
  • • Available with a highly engaging manual transmission
  • • Strong performance for its era, especially the CRT variant

Cons:

  • • High fuel consumption and running costs (maintenance, tires, brakes)
  • • Known S65 engine issues (e.g., rod bearings, throttle actuators) can be costly
  • • Firm ride quality may not appeal to all drivers for daily commuting
  • • Rear seat legroom is adequate but not generous for a sedan
  • • Hydraulic steering, while praised, can feel heavy at low speeds

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Convertible (E93): June, 2008 - February, 2010).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:M3
Generation:E90 LCI, facelift 2008
Modification (Engine):CRT 4.4 V8 (450 Hp) M DCT
Start of production:June, 2011
End of production:November, 2011
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:4
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:450 Hp @ 8300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:103.2 Hp/l [1mm less]
Torque:440 Nm @ 3750 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:S65B44A More details about the engine S65B44A
Engine displacement:4361
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:Double-Vanos
Engine oil capacity:8.8 l
Coolant:11.4 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:92 mm mm
Piston Stroke:82 mm mm
Compression ratio:12:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:18.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:9.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):12.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):18.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):9.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:12.7 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:4.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:4.4 sec
Maximum speed:290 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:3.5 kg/Hp, 284.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.6 kg/Nm, 278.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:4.2 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1580
Max. weight:1970
Max load:390
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:450 l
Fuel tank capacity:63 l
Size:
Length:4614 mm mm [1mm less]
Width:1817 mm mm [13mm more]
Height:1416 mm mm [24mm more]
Wheelbase:2761 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1540 mm
Rear (Back) track:1540 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.7 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeM DCT
Front brakesVentilated discs, 378x32 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs, 380x28 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 245/35 R19
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 9J x 19
Front suspensionSpring Strut, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

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