2009 BMW Sedan

The 2009 BMW M3 Sedan’s 32-valve, 4.0-liter V8 has been touted as the lightest V8 in the world, lighter even than the inline six that previously powered the M3. With 420 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, its maximum speed tops out at 8,300 rpm, and it features electronic throttle control and cooling, an aluminum and silicon alloy crankcase, a distributor-less electronic ignition system, and variable valve timing. The sole transmission, a six-speed manual with hill-holder clutch, gets EPA estimates of 14/20 mpg.

This rear-wheel-drive, four-door saloon has a unique sport suspension, including stiffened dampers and springs, an aluminum double-pivot gas-pressurized strut-type front suspension, five-link rear suspension with coil springs and gas-pressurized shocks, and stabilizer bars front and rear. 18-inch wheels spread 8.5 inches in the front and 9.5 in the rear, wrapped in P245/40ZR18 front and P265/40ZR18 rear performance tires. A limited-slip differential, traction control, and dynamic stability control are all standard.

M3-specifc features abound, like front air intake scoops, an M rear spoiler, flared fenders and wheel arches to accommodate the larger wheels, side air intake and fender gills, a chrome grille, clear signal lenses, unique M power heated mirrors, M door handles with ground lighting, and, of course - M badging. The M-specific features don’t end there, with an M three-spoke, leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio and phone controls, as well as M-color stitching and a special instrument cluster with faux-aluminum dials for the gauges. You’ll also get all the usual luxury of the 3 Series, with 8-way power front bucket seats, a driver memory system, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with digital media connection, tri-zone climate control, dynamic cruise, and full power, including heated door locks, remote keyless entry, and a power sunroof.

Exterior illumination includes daytime running lights and steering-linked adaptive xenon headlights, while lighted visor mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and ambient interior lighting keep things visible inside. Rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers with heated washer jets are standard. A center console leads back to the split-folding rear seat, while a trip computer and outside temperature indicator are expectedly included. Safety features include a tire pressure monitor, four-wheel ventilated swing-caliper disc brakes with vacuum assist and anti-skid, dual front, front side, and front and rear side head-protecting airbags, front-seat active head restraints, and a theft-deterrent system.

By Michael Perkins