I wouldn't go that far man.... with 400 bhp and less weight than its predecessor, which is a lighter car than a 996TT this car will definately be as fast, if not faster than a 996TT. Remember, it will be rwd, with a tqy V8 that will have amazing tuning potential. Imagine a S/C on that engine in the future, watch out... it will be a ferocious monster for sure.

Only thing is, I have heard that it will be 380bhp stock, not 400, which would be pretty weak imo.

 

You must remember that the U.S. version is always much more tame the the euro. Any released on engine performance to this point will most likely be the euro version of the car. I do think it looks incredible though, hard to believe Bangle pulled this one off. As far as tuning potential, that's up in the air. The e46s' coudl not be tuned very much, some companies have s/c kits now but I have heard that is still a sketchy road to go on with that car.

 

Euro version of the E36 was more powerful, but U.S. got the same version for the E46. Word is that a lightweight Club Sport version is also in the works with 440 hp!!

 

Bangle is no longer head of design for BMW... they have a committe that does the design work. That's why this M3 looks the way it does.

 

It is a PhotoShop as far as I can tell.

 

Horrible comparison, compare apples with apples.

 

Seriously, if it looks like this, I'm getting one. Nice daily driver

 

Once again, the M3 is NOT a sports car. Only the M3 CSL is.

 

rumor has it though, the new M3 will be "serviced" by the same "service" dealer network as the E4

 

I like it
It looks similar to these old photos I dug up.

 

Look at the pics posted by greyghost. Are those two different suspension settings? Bottom is 20" wheels?

If I'm a 996/997 C2/C4 buyer, I'd seriously consider the M3/M4 as an alternative. Easier on the pocket book and easier to live with in daily traffic.