The BMW M3 (E90) equipped with the 4.0-liter V8 engine and M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) represents a pivotal moment in the M3 lineage. Produced from March 2008 to August 2008, this variant marked a significant departure from the inline-six engines that had traditionally powered the M3. It was the first M3 to utilize a V8 powerplant, and the introduction of the M DCT offered a cutting-edge transmission option. This model sat at the very top of the E90 M3 range, representing the highest performance and most technologically advanced iteration of the fourth-generation M3.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Generation | M3 (E90) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V8 (420 Hp) M DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2008 |
| End of production | August, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 285 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 15.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 258.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 8300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3900 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 8400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S65B40A |
| Engine displacement | 3999 cm3 (244.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.2 mm (2.96 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1817 mm (71.54 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2005 mm (78.94 in.) |
| Height | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm (108.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Front overhang | 805 mm (31.69 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1014 mm (39.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission M DCT |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×24 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19 Rear wheel tires: 265/40 R18; 265/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 18; 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E90 M3 is the S65B40A 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, unlike its predecessors, was designed from the ground up for the M3. It features an aluminum alloy block and heads, individual throttle bodies, and a high-revving nature, producing 420 horsepower at 8,300 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,900 rpm. The engine utilizes BMW’s Double-VANOS variable valve timing system for both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Fuel is delivered via multi-port fuel injection. The M DCT transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. It allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear changes via steering wheel-mounted paddles, offering incredibly fast and precise shifts. The M DCT features a dedicated oil cooler to manage the heat generated during spirited driving.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the high-revving V8 and the M DCT transmission delivers a thrilling driving experience. The M DCT provides near-instantaneous gear changes, eliminating the torque interruption associated with traditional automatic transmissions. The 4.5-second 0-60 mph acceleration time is testament to the engine’s power and the transmission’s efficiency. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on other E90 M3 models, the M DCT offers quicker acceleration and a more refined driving experience. However, some purists preferred the engagement of the manual gearbox. The gear ratios are tuned for both acceleration and high-speed cruising, making the car equally capable on the track and on the highway.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.0 V8 M DCT variant typically came standard with a high level of equipment. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in leather, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a navigation system. Exterior features included M-specific aerodynamic enhancements, such as a front splitter, rear diffuser, and quad exhaust outlets. Optional extras included carbon fiber roof panels, upgraded interior trim, and various driver assistance systems. The M DCT models often featured unique interior trim options not available on the manual transmission versions.
Chassis & Braking
The E90 M3 features a sophisticated chassis designed to handle the increased power of the V8 engine. The suspension consists of a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both with adjustable dampers. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 360x30mm, while the rear brakes are 350x24mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The chassis is reinforced compared to the standard 3-Series to improve rigidity and handling precision.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E90 M3 with the V8 and M DCT was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and technology. The M DCT transmission was particularly lauded for its speed and smoothness. However, some critics noted the increased weight of the V8 engine compared to the inline-six, and the fuel economy was relatively poor at 19.8 US mpg combined. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the M DCT offered a more accessible and user-friendly experience, appealing to a broader range of drivers.
Legacy
The E90 M3 with the V8 engine represents a significant chapter in the M3’s history. The S65 engine is known for its reliability and durability, although regular maintenance is crucial. The M DCT transmission has also proven to be reliable, but requires periodic servicing. Today, these cars are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors, commanding premium prices in the used car market. The E90 M3 V8 is remembered as a thrilling and technologically advanced sports sedan that set a new benchmark for performance and driving enjoyment.
