BMW M3: As practical as it is fast
If you consider only its technical features and its performance numbers, the BMW M3 Coupe is nothing like a family car. The data paints the picture of a road rocket with bad suspension sucking high octane gas like its going out of style while providing minimal comfort. Not exactly the car that the “cup-holder and trunk space crowd” had in mind, is it? In fact, those who buy this type of car are all about the 414 horses in the 4.0-litre V8 engine and the 4.76 seconds they need to go from 0-100 km/h. And just to hammer the point home, it takes only 12.9 seconds at more than 180 km/h to go a quarter of a mile!
What’s more, our test car was a real knockout with its white body and its all black carbon fibre top. Personally, I hate the fact that the new M3 has become more portly and that its dimensions are less sporty than they once were. A little like us mere mortals, cars have a tendency to develop a paunch with each passing year and each passing model. The result is a plush and comfortable passenger compartment. Two adults can even sit in reasonable comfort in the back seats, provided they are flexible enough to squeeze in.
Endless descriptions and explanations are unnecessary - this Bimmer’s handling and the performances of its V8 engine are very impressive. Granted, it is heavier, but it is also more neutral in turns and easier to control, and for day-to-day driving. By the way, the sound of this engine will be music to the ears of sports car enthusiasts.
Practical?
All too often, we become infatuated with a sports car’s looks, only to lose interest after a few days because of its ultra firm suspension, Lilliputian trunk and lack of cargo space. I know, I know, I sound like an old fuddy duddy, but at a certain age you do not want to be deprived of the little things in life. I am not a golfer, but the trunk can hold as many golf bags as there are seats in the car. You will definitely have the fastest foursome on the road. Personally, I was surprised to see this same trunk easily fit a large case of photo accessories.
Whether you opt for a sportier driving mode or if you simply want to tame a winding back road, the ride is superb. This car clings to the pavement like it is on rails and the suspension is neither too soft nor too firm. They seem to have found the winning combination in Munich in this regard.
Basically, for daily use, this M3 helps reconcile the practical and the fun. The supportive and comfortable seats also deserve mention. The only drawbacks that may curb the enthusiasm of potential buyers are a price tag of more than $70,000, an average fuel consumption of a little less than 16 litres per 100 km, and the fact that the car uses only super grade gasoline. But then again, nothing is perfect…