BMW M Series History – M Power, M Performance, M Sport

Riddle:

Which English letter is the fastest?

Answer: M

The M series models, regarded as the epitome of BMW's high performance, have been around for over 50 years. As the company's special forces, they have produced numerous classic models that dominate the racetrack. Various M road car models, like wolves in sheep's clothing, allow even non-professional racers to experience their power. This time, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of the origins of BMW's M series and explain the various M series.

The BMW M series originated from the GmbH division established in 1972, which was initially known as Motorsport GmbH. This initiative was driven by then BMW president Eberhard von Kuenheim (1928 - ), with the goal of overseeing BMW's motorsport activities, such as producing racing engines and components. Motorsport GmbH was led by Jochen Neerpasch, a former professional driver for Porsche and team manager for Ford. At its inception, it had only eight employees, but as it expanded, Motorsport GmbH transitioned from behind the scenes to the forefront.

In 1973, the company created the powerful 3.0 CSL, featuring a striking color scheme of factory blue, purple, and red, boasting 360 horsepower. The letters CSL stand for Coupé (two-door), Sport, and Leicht (lightweight), while the first letter 'M' from Motorsport marks the founding of the M series.

The 3.0 CSL was like a bolt of lightning, dominating European racetracks. From 1973 to 1979, it won the ETCC (European Touring Car Championship) six times and also claimed titles in the 1973 French Le Mans 24-hour endurance race, the 1974 Europe Challenge Cup, and the 1975 IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) championship in the United States.

The One and Only M1

Although the 3.0 CSL dominated the racetrack, it was also the catalyst for the launch of the M series models. The story began when the 3.0 CSL was unable to compete against the Porsche 934 and 935 in Group 4 and Group 5 events, prompting the manufacturer to commit to creating a new model. As a result, the M1 was unveiled to the world in 1978, featuring a mid-mounted inline-six engine and rear-wheel drive configuration, delivering 470 horsepower and a top speed of 300 km/h.

The M1 had a production run of only two years, with a total of 399 street cars and 56 Group 4 factory cars produced. Due to its limited quantity, the M1 has become a highly sought-after collectible among enthusiasts. Earlier this year, a Polaris silver M1 was auctioned for USD $742,000 (approximately HKD $5.79 million), a very handsome sum indeed.

After Motorsport GmbH entered the high-performance market with the M1, it took an unexpected turn by launching the M535i, designated as E12, in 1979, which is essentially the predecessor of the M5. The M535i was equipped with a 3.5-liter inline-six engine transplanted from the M1. Although its power was reduced to 218 horsepower and its top speed was 'only' 224 km/h, it was sufficient to qualify as a supercar in the sedan market at the time. Riding the wave of success, the M635CSi was introduced in 1983, continuing its popularity. These two M models not only established the image of high-performance sedans but also helped shape the M series family.

Independent Development of the M Series

To proactively develop the M series family, BMW decided in 1984 to establish the M series as an independent lineup. They moved the production base to a larger facility in Munich and, the following year, unveiled the M5, designated as E28, officially marking the beginning of the M series' journey of popularization. It continued to use the renowned 3.5-liter inline-six engine, but with an increased power output of 280 horsepower, solidifying its status as a high-performance four-door sedan in a class few cars could attain.

In 1986, BMW launched the first generation M3, developed based on the contemporary E30, featuring a 2.3-liter inline-four engine. The powerful M3 delivered 200 horsepower at 6,750 RPM and could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. It quickly owned the racetrack, winning numerous championships, including the World Championship, European Championship, and the German Touring Car Championship. However, what left the most lasting impression on Hong Kongers was the classic moment in the 1987 Macau Grand Prix, when the M3 secured the first, second, and third places!

With the rapid development of the M series family, Motorsport GmbH was renamed BMW M GmbH in 1993. In addition to the original high-performance vehicle development, it also took on three major areas: custom services and driver training. The M3 and M5 have become enduring models for the manufacturer, having evolved through several generations. Currently, the M3 and M5 have reached their sixth and seventh generations, respectively, with the new generation M5 now featuring a hybrid engine that delivers a combined output of up to 722 horsepower. The M3 retains a straight-six twin-turbo engine, producing a maximum of 530 horsepower. The M family has expanded beyond just two members, introducing models such as the XM, M4 coupe, 1M coupe, M2, and M8.

Since entering the 21st century, the BMW M series has continued to innovate, incorporating turbocharging technology and more advanced electronic control systems. The latest generation M3 (G80) and M4 coupe (G82) not only maintain the traditional high-performance characteristics but also integrate modern technologies, such as intelligent driving assistance systems and more efficient powertrains, making them truly powerful vehicles.

Analysis of the 3 Major M Series

After years of development, BMW has come to understand user needs, and the M series has evolved into different forms, such as M Power, M Performance, and M Sport. So, how do they differ from one another?

M Power

As the performance representative among the various series, M Power models boast robust power as their main selling point. They are the most traditional M series vehicles, such as the M3 and M5. Each M Power vehicle is meticulously crafted by M GmbH, featuring not only tuned engines with enhanced horsepower but also reinforced suspension, brakes, and chassis.

In terms of appearance, M Power models are equipped with aerodynamic components like front and rear spoilers and a rear wing, making them both practical and imposing. Additionally, the interface has been upgraded to a more sporty design, aimed at elevating the driver’s adrenaline levels.

M Performance

M Performance is a 'spicy' version based on the original model, offering higher power output and an upgraded braking system, as well as a more sporty appearance. It replaces chrome parts of the base model with carbon fiber or black components. The differences from M Power models can also be seen in the naming, with an 'M' added to the model names, such as Z4 M40i, X4 M40i, and X7 M60i. Inside, you can also spot the 'M' branding, including an M badge on the steering wheel, which serves to distinguish the M series.

M Sport

If M Performance is considered 'medium spicy,' then M Sport can be classified as 'mildly spicy.' M Sport primarily provides owners with more M accessories, such as body kits, wheels, and suspension upgrades, which can be applied across the entire BMW lineup. The interior features more elements representative of the M series, including blue, purple, and red accents, special decorative colors, and a sportier steering wheel.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the BMW M series appear? 

The BMW M series originated from the GmbH division established in 1972, which was initially called Motorsport GmbH. This division was driven by then BMW president Eberhard von Kuenheim (1928 - ) and was responsible for BMW's motorsport activities, such as the production of racing engines and components.

How can I distinguish between the different BMW M series models? 

The BMW M series has evolved into various forms, including M Power, M Performance, and M Sport. M Power is crafted entirely by M GmbH, featuring not only tuned engines with enhanced horsepower but also reinforced suspension, brakes, and chassis. M Performance is a 'spicy' version of the original model, offering higher power output and an upgraded braking system along with a more sporty appearance. M Sport mainly provides owners with more M accessories, such as body kits, wheels, and suspension upgrade packages.