The fourth generation of BMW M3 E93 cars belongs to the sporty versions of the BMW 3 series. They were introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Fresh developments feature more powerful engines with increased horsepower. Upgraded suspension elements and braking systems. Changes have been made to the internal and external structures of the cars.
The vehicles now sport «Motorsport» emblems. Although the coupes E92 and sedans E90 were introduced much earlier than the convertibles E93, the convertibles became their counterparts.
Exterior of BMW M3 E93
The external features include:
Signature 18-inch alloy wheels,
Enhanced hood designs with special vents for ventilation,
Front fenders with air intakes,
Updated bumpers and exhaust tips, now circular, with an increased quantity of four.
The new chassis provides a balance between the rear and front axles in the cars due to the new chassis. Featuring electromechanical, rigid type roofs, they mechanically fold in 22 seconds.
These cars were the first to be equipped with the new BMW V8 S65 engines. They were coupled with seven-speed gearboxes featuring dual-clutch M DCT, replacing the previous six-speed transmissions.
Cars come with self-locking rear differentials, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, and automatic windshield wipers.
Optics
Xenon optical devices with automatic adaptation. The BMW M3 E93, using built-in sensors, autonomously analyze the distances to approaching vehicles. The headlights then switch to low beam. After overcoming obstacles, they revert to high beam.
Hoods
Thanks to the prominent ridges applied to them, the cars exude aggressiveness. This not only enhances their appearance but also conceals stiffness ribs to absorb impacts during frontal collisions, ensuring maximum safety.
Interior of BMW M3 E93
The cabins of these cars are luxurious and feature innovative engineering solutions. The leather seats in the convertibles are made of SunReflectiv material. It is durable, resistant to low and high temperatures.
The upholstery does not fade or deform, even when exposed to direct sunlight. Initially, this leather was used for motorcycles before being employed in convertibles.
The interior features carbon fiber accents. The front seats are now sporty, providing lumbar and side support. Due to the inclusion of retractable roofs, the cars have gained 200 kg in weight, now weighing 1,810 kg.
The cabins are equipped with Bluetooth and USB interfaces, folding mirrors, keyless engine start, rear parking sensors, navigation systems with voice commands, and real-time display technologies.
The seats come with heating features. Additional developments include Premium Sound and power-adjustable front seats. They are sporty, with adjustments for side and lumbar support. Optional winter packages with heated front seats are also available.
The roofs are made of carbon alloy with integrated sunroofs.
Engines of BMW M3 E93 and the oils for them
The same engines used in the Sedan and Coupe cars are featured in the BMW M3 E93. These are eight-cylinder engines with a 4.0L capacity and 420 hp. Acceleration occurs in 5.3 seconds with a six-speed manual transmission and in 5.1 seconds with the optional seven-speed technologies.
Power outputs have increased by 22% compared to previous models. The V8 S65 engines have a top speed of 250 km/h. However, practical results have shown even higher performance.
Longitudinally positioned engines with direct injection systems and 4 valves per cylinder. They comply with Euro 4 emissions standards.
The camshafts and valves are located in the overhead valve system, with dual camshafts. The engines were tested differently, showing urban fuel consumption of 17.9 L, 9.2 L outside the city, and 12.4 L in combined cycles.
The cars were designed as supercars from the ground up, aiming to transform four-seat convertibles into high-performance vehicles.
The recommended oils for these engines are TITAN Supersyn 10W-60. They should be changed every 25,000 km or once every 2 years.
Important! To avoid complications, it is necessary to monitor the engines and oil. When changing oils, filters should also be replaced. It is essential to regularly check oil levels and refill with new products.
Although the manufacturer suggests changing oils every 7,500 km, each owner decides independently. Some opt for annual oil changes.
Mandatory replacements are required for:
- Mechanical gearboxes;
- Automatic transmissions;
- Differentials;
- Hydraulic brakes;
- Power steering mechanisms;
- Cooling systems.
Important! In the first months of operation, oils should be changed every 10,000 km.
Technological Aspect
The BMW M3 E93 is a rear-wheel-drive coupe-convertible with manual transmissions. They have two doors, left-hand drives, and are designed for four passengers. They belong to the S-Class.
Front suspensions feature independent shock struts, triangular transverse control arms, and stabilizer bars.
The rear suspensions are independent with lower and upper transverse longitudinal control arms, springs, stabilizer bars, and telescopic shock absorbers. The braking systems include ventilated disc brakes at the front and rear.
The ground clearance is 11 cm.
The car's dimensions are as follows:
— Width: 1.801 m
— Length: 4.615 m
— Height: 1.392 m
— Wheelbase: 2.761 m
— Weight: 2.355 kg
— Curb weight: 1.905 kg
— Front/rear tracks: 1.540 m / 1.539 m
Other parameters include specific features:
- 18-inch tire sizes;
- road clearances of 13.8 cm;
- transmissions can also be robotic;
- luggage capacities of 210 — 480 L;
- maximum accelerations with poor fuel quality at 7.1 seconds.
The cars run on gasoline, either AI 98 or AI 95. The adjustment of parameters is done by the drivers. When the engines were released, developers assumed that with new power units, which could be purchased separately by owners, the warranty would be valid for 2 years.
Electronic Equipment and Chip Tuning
Chip tuning is used in BMW M3 E93 to enhance the factory settings of Engine Control Units (ECUs). Mechanical adjustments are not applied; rather, engines are reprogrammed.
Their power outputs are modified, fuel consumption is increased or minimized, and programs are fine-tuned in sports cars with minor issues.
Chip tuning can be single-stage for engine enhancements or multi-stage with various levels. These developments increase power, torque, reduce consumption, improve transmissions, and engines.
Chip tuning involves three stages:
- Initially, the engine control program is read.
- Then, the firmware is modified through corrections.
- Finally, specific functionalities are disabled or power outputs are increased. The obtained programs are then stored in the ECU.
During such processes, car brands, models, engine conditions, technical integrity, residual resources, wear levels of components, and future usage conditions are considered.
Engine power can be increased by 10 to 50% or even up to 100%, depending on the factory specifications. If sports car upgrades are required and everything is already updated and reprogrammed, complete replacements may be necessary to boost power.
Reprogramming helps in better throttle response. Developers avoid this process because they are unaware of the region where the cars will be operated. They lack information about regional highways, environmental regulations, and fuel quality.
Chip tuning saves fuel by enhancing precision adjustments and fuel delivery to increase power. This results in lower fuel consumption.
Additionally, minimization occurs due to torque adjustments. Transmission functionality is altered, enabling gear shifts at low engine speeds.
Other electronic equipment in BMW M3 E93 includes multimedia devices with two-way front and rear speakers. These models come with equalizers and subwoofers. Small screens are accompanied by amplifiers.
During tuning, additional speakers are installed. The audio devices are equipped with standard stereos.
Equipment of BMW M3 E93
For safety, the cars are equipped with six airbags: front, side, front, and curtain types.
Auxiliary braking systems include:
- ABS.
- Emergency braking assistance.
- Devices for brake force distribution.
- As well as:
- antiskid mechanisms;
- child seat fixtures;
- immobilizers;
- pressure monitoring and stability control mechanisms.
The cars feature:
- Alloy wheels.
- Halogen lights.
- Heated windshields.
- Rear spoilers.
- Power-folding and heated side mirrors.
- Front fog lights.
- Rear wipers.
The interiors boast:
- Front power windows;
- Power steering;
- Analog instrument clusters with onboard computers, tachometers;
- Remote central locks;
- Adjustable steering columns for reach and height; power seats and seat heaters;
- Leather-wrapped steering wheels.
To ensure maximum comfort and convenience, audio devices, ventilation systems with climate controls, dust filters, and light sensors are installed.
Malfunctions
The rear wheel arches are designed in a way that passengers can feel them inside the cabins. This affects the sofa position, and drivers may encounter uneven flooring. Sometimes it becomes uncomfortable to place your feet due to small exterior mirrors, compromising visibility.
Electronics can also fail due to poor power supply and rapid battery discharges. Central locks and optical instruments may experience malfunctions due to poor functioning of the FRM blocks. Repairs can only be carried out at service centers. The equipment will need reprogramming.
Transmission failure may occur due to servo drive failures. The issue lies in the wear of conical bearings after 200,000 km.
The low beam headlights may burn out, a result of design flaws. Or there may be leaks in headlight washers. Some users install plugs, which increase the temperature inside due to accumulated dirt on the headlights, resulting in instrument burnouts.
While the rear suspension components of BMW M3 E93 are reliable, they may start producing an unpleasant squeak after 150,000 km. Driveshafts may click during gear changes, signaling the need for oil changes, which should be done every 10,000 km.
Additionally, spark plugs need to be checked, radiators cleaned. After 60,000 km, distributor cap covers should be replaced, and catalytic converters cleaned. Mechatronic valve bushings and filter replacements are needed after 80,000 km.
Conclusion
The BMW M3 E93 marks the fourth and final versions of stylish and sleek convertibles with retractable roofs. These four-seat cars feature stylish leather upholstery that is resistant to sunlight.
The eight-cylinder engines with 420 hp can be enhanced through chip tuning. Breakdowns will be less frequent if specific recommendations are followed. It is essential to diagnose the cars and collaborate with service centers.
