What I meant by engine/suspension upgrade is the point that they are applying the M3 logo to every body style in the 3-series. It feels like an upgrade package, rather than a dedicated car that is meant for road racing if needed. And in my mind, that dilutes the allure of the M3, much like what Cheyenne did to the Porsche brand.

E30 M3: 2760 lbs E36 M3: 3219 lbs E46 M3: 3415 lbs E92 M3: 3704 lbs E93 M3: 4145 lbs (convertible M3) 135: 3373 lbs

Need I say more? Even sedentary American are doing a better job in keeping our weight down.

It is sad to see even the 135 is only 42 lbs less than the last E46 M3, and the current M3 is HALF TON more than the original M3. What is BMW thinking?

To add insult to the injury, add a 4145 lbs convertible to the line up, a four door sedan, and a M3 wagon in 2009, BMW has essentially destroyed the famed M3 badge and turned it into an engine/suspension upgrade in its 3-series cars. Heck, why not offer a MX3 SUV while they are at it. Yes, I am sure overall sale will go up, as some wagon buyers would love to think they are driving a sports car (can we say Cheyenne?). But I think most prior M3 loyals like myself will shop elsewhere. It is going to take some serious work to make me come back.

I think 911 and Corvette fans can all let out a sign of relief as a big competitor has left the track due to obesity and busy picking up grocery at the local supermarket.

Yeh, like a 53 Buick!

Reason? Mass. I am very disappointed to see BMWs kept getting heavier and bigger, while the superb engines compensate for the acceleration, you feel the pull and tug at every turn. Also, on the M-3, it is becoming less exclusive by offering it as a 4-door family car again to please the practical buyers who needs easy access to the baby seats :-)

The 1-series is interesting, easy to drive fast, but lacking the edge of a M-car. If they ever produce a M1 with DSG, stiffened suspension, faster steering, and less weight, I may return to the BMW camp. The most interesting product from BMW Group these mays may well be the JCW Cooper.

After cancelling my M3 order, I ordered a C6.5 with Z51. I haven’t been in a Chev for years, but the power and torque of the engine, combined with a 3250lbs curb weight and low c.g., immediately points out the difference between a sports car and a fast sedan. I can take turns faster, more composed, and with less drama – which points out the advantage of shedding a quarter ton from the M3 weight. The power plant is also infinitely more flexible, delivering power on-demand no matter which gear I am in.

I still think my MINI has the most telepathic steering and superb body control, it is a great day-to-day work car, so that would stay in my collection. When I hear the cold start engine noise issue is fixed in the Cooper, then I will trade it for a JCW.

and grossly overweight!

There are many rumors floating around about this… and is the basis for much of the tii debate.

Hmmm… Sounds interesting. So my 300HP twin turbo will go away, or they are going to offer another variant of the 1 with a smaller – yet still powerful – engine?

Seconded.

The R56 JCW motor in the 1 series would be tasty!

Sign me up for a Turbocharged Prince powered 1-series Bimmer.