The BMW M3 Generations

The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series compact executive car. It has been produced in several distinct generations since its introduction in 1986. Here's a brief overview of each generation:

1. E30 M3 (1986-1991): The first-generation M3 was produced from 1986 to 1991. It was powered by a naturally aspirated 2.3-liter inline-four engine that produced 192 horsepower and was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The E30 M3 was renowned for its handling and balance, and it won numerous touring car championships around the world.

2. E36 M3 (1992-1999): The second-generation M3 was produced from 1992 to 1999. It was powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced between 240 and 321 horsepower, depending on the model year and market. The E36 M3 was available as a coupe, sedan, and convertible, and it was praised for its performance and handling.

3. E46 M3 (2000-2006): The third-generation M3 was produced from 2000 to 2006. It was powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six engine that produced 333 horsepower and was mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The E46 M3 was praised for its handling and performance, and it remains a favorite among BMW enthusiasts.

4. E90/E92/E93 M3 (2007-2013): The fourth-generation M3 was produced from 2007 to 2013. It was powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produced 414 horsepower and was mated to a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The E90/E92/E93 M3 was available as a sedan, coupe, and convertible, and it was praised for its handling and high-revving engine.

5. F80 M3 (2014-2018): The fifth-generation M3 was produced from 2014 to 2018. It was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced 425 horsepower and was mated to a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The F80 M3 was praised for its handling and performance, and it was the first M3 to feature turbocharged power.

6. G80 M3 (2021-present): The sixth-generation M3 was introduced in 2021. It is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces up to 503 horsepower in the Competition model, and it is available with either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The G80 M3 features a controversial front grille design, but it has been praised for its handling and performance.

How does the G80 M3's engine compare to the F80 M3's engine?

The G80 M3's engine is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, while the F80 M3's engine was also a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. However, the G80 M3's engine is a completely new design, and it is more powerful and efficient than the F80 M3's engine.

The G80 M3's engine is available in two different versions: the standard model produces 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, while the Competition model produces 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the F80 M3's engine produced 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.

The G80 M3's engine also features a new cooling system, a redesigned intake manifold, and a more efficient turbocharger system. These improvements help to deliver more power and torque while also improving fuel efficiency.

Overall, while the engines in both the G80 and F80 M3s are turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-sixes, the G80 M3's engine is a more advanced and powerful design that builds on the strengths of the F80 M3's engine.

How does the G80 M3's fuel efficiency compare to the F80 M3's?

The G80 M3's fuel efficiency is slightly better than the F80 M3's, thanks in part to the new engine design and other improvements.

According to the EPA, the 2021 G80 M3 with the standard engine and automatic transmission has an estimated fuel economy rating of 19 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. The G80 M3 Competition with the automatic transmission has an estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg combined.

In comparison, the 2018 F80 M3 with the automatic transmission had an estimated fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg combined.

It's worth noting that fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions, and factors such as driving style, traffic, and weather can all affect a vehicle's fuel efficiency. However, based on the EPA estimates, the G80 M3 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the F80 M3.

10 Fastest German Cars