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BMW M3 E90 4.0 V8 (420 Hp) M DCT
Overall Rating
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 Overview:
BMW M3 (E90). With 400 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1625 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 4.7 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The BMW 3 Series (E90), on which the M3 is based, achieved an excellent 5-star rating for adult occupant protection in Euro NCAP tests, demonstrating strong structural integrity and safety features.
4.0 V8 (420 Hp) M DCT Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Exceptional performance with the S65B40A V8, delivering rapid acceleration and a thrilling high-revving experience. The M DCT gearbox provides lightning-fast shifts, optimizing track and spirited driving.
Fuel Economy
As expected for a high-performance V8, fuel consumption is significant, particularly in urban settings. However, it's competitive within its segment for the power delivered.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • High-revving, naturally aspirated S65 V8 engine sound and character
- • Exceptional handling and steering precision
- • Timeless and aggressive design
- • Engaging driving experience, especially with M DCT or manual
- • Strong performance for its era and current market value
Cons:
- • High fuel consumption and running costs
- • Known S65 engine issues (e.g., rod bearings) requiring preventative maintenance
- • Firm ride quality may not suit all drivers
- • Interior can feel dated compared to modern cars
- • Limited torque compared to turbocharged rivals
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E90 LCI, facelift 2008: June, 2011 - November, 2011).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | M3 |
| Generation: | E90 |
| Modification (Engine): | 4.0 V8 (420 Hp) M DCT |
| Start of production: | March, 2008 |
| End of production: | August, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 420 Hp @ 8300 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 105 Hp/l [34mm less] |
| Torque: | 400 Nm @ 3900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S65B40A More details about the engine S65B40A |
| Engine displacement: | 3999 |
| 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 |
| Piston Stroke: | 75.2 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 12:1 |
| Maximum engine speed: | 8400 rpm. |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 17 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 11.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 17 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 11.9 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 4 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h, Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 3.9 kg/Hp, 258.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.2 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 200 km/h: | 15.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1625 |
| Max. weight: | 2150 |
| Max. roof load: | 75 kg |
| Max load: | 525 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 450 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4580 mm [34mm less] |
| Width: | 1817 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1447 mm [31mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2761 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2005 mm |
| Front track: | 1540 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1539 mm |
| Front overhang: | 805 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1014 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.7 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | M DCT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360x30 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350x24 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
What’s the best feature of the BMW M3? Tell us in the comments!