BMW lover’s followers and fans of all its versions specially the E30, E36 M3s had been waiting for a smaller and lighter version of the M car. On the part of BMW, reasons not restricted only to the difficulty they face on using the “M1” name, have been a hurdle to them not making this type of a car till date. But now Kay Segler , BMW’s M division chief has stated that such a low price car would be made available soon.
Spy photos reveal a car that definitely looks hot. Much more attractive than the 135i even with its slightly disguised carbon-fiber roof panel and larger fenders. The trademark M quad exhaust tailpipes though is visible and closer looks would show the enhanced suspension of the car as well as engine and braking system.
The name of the car would not be M1, that’s for certain. The reason being due to the legacy that is attached to the mid-engine M1 model and its high seating. The M car is to be the entry level vehicle. The cost of the new entrant is expected to be in the range if $40,000, that’s somewhere between the $36,000 of the 135i and $58,000 of the M3 coupe.
Given its price the 1-series M car would be a formidable contender in the car market even though it lacks the sharpness and focus that a 2011 BMW 135i or for that matter the 2011 BMW M3 have with their dual clutch transmission systems. The new car would be able to nip at the larger car at certain points on the track as yet. It also has a twin turbo six cylinder engine giving 350 hp. This car is expected to hit the market in 2012 with a preview probably at the Paris Auto Show in October 2010.
