The new models draw the energy for their exceptional performance exploits from the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car. The high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops 441 kW/600 hp in the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible, and 460 kW/625 hp in the Competition models. The high-performance power unit teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, and the engineās power is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The model-specific chassis technology has been designed and tuned with the specific demands of track use in mind. One of the features of the chassis that stands out in particular is a newly developed integrated braking system, an M-specific version of which presents the driver with two different brake pedal feel settings. The new range-topping models from BMW M GmbH will celebrate their world premieres as part of the BMW Group #NextGen event taking place at BMW Welt in Munich on 25 ā 27 June 2019.
The precise interaction between powertrain, chassis technology and aerodynamics has been carefully honed over the course of intensive testing at the BMW Groupās test track in Miramas in southern France, the winter testing centre in Arjeplog, Sweden and the NĆ¼rburgringās Nordschleife circuit, along with other race circuits. Experience collected from the development of the BMW M8 GTE racing car also played a role in the configuration process. The performance-focused character of the engine, transmission and chassis allows the new BMW M8 Coupe and new BMW M8 Convertible to power from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.3 / 3.4 seconds. The new BMW M8 Competition Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, the new BMW M8 Competition Convertible in 3.3 seconds.
Fast responses, a thirst for revs, and sustained power delivery: V8Ā engine with signature MĀ performance traits.
The high-revving V8 engine presents a compelling blend of razor-sharp responses, a feverish appetite for revs and sustained power delivery across anĀ extraordinarily wide rev band. The MĀ TwinPower Turbo technology of the 4.4-litre unit includes a pair of turbochargers ā positioned in the āVā between the cylinder banks and boasting optimised efficiency ā and indirect charge air cooling, plus a direct fuel injection system working with maximum pressure of 350Ā bar. Another technological highlight is the cross-bank exhaust manifolds.
In the new BMWĀ M8 Coupe and new BMWĀ M8Ā Convertible, the engine serves up peak torque of 750Ā Nm (553 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,600Ā rpm ā and goes on to deliver maximum output of 441Ā kW/600Ā hp at 6,000Ā rpm, enĀ route to the 7,200Ā rpm cut-off. The power unit in the Competition models sustains its peak torque up to 5,800Ā rpm and develops maximum output ofĀ 460Ā kW/625Ā hp at 6,000Ā rpm, its race-derived, high-revving instincts takingĀ an even more prominent lead. The most powerful variant of the V8Ā teams up with a special engine mounting for a more rigid connection with theĀ vehicle structure. This results in even crisper engine response and alsoĀ has a positive effect on the immediacy of turn-in and the transmission ofĀ engine noise into the cabin.
A sophisticated cooling system ensures optimum operating temperatures atĀ all times, both in everyday use on urban routes and when the cars are stretching their legs on the track. The central cooling module, for example, isĀ flanked by two high-temperature water circuits. And the system also features an additional engine oil cooler and separate transmission oil cooler. The particular challenges of track driving are reflected in the design of the oilĀ supply system. The oil sump has a smaller front chamber, which steps inĀ when extra capacity is needed. An additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber. This ensures a reliable supply of oil at all times, even under extreme lateral and longitudinal acceleration.
Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and MĀ xDrive.
Power transfer is via an eight-speed MĀ Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The Drivelogic button on the newly designed selector lever allowsĀ the driver to select from three modes with specific shift characteristics for particularly efficient, sporty or ultra-dynamic driving. There are also MĀ gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.
Another factor in the enthralling performance of the new BMW M8 models isĀ the MĀ xDrive all-wheel-drive system with its rear-biased setup. The centrally controlled interaction between MĀ xDrive and the Active MĀ Differential ensures loss-free transfer of the engineās huge power to the road. And via the Setup menu, the driver can choose between the default 4WD setting and 4WD Sport mode, which diverts a larger slice of engine power to the rear wheels. Deactivating DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) brings 2WD mode into the equation. The transfer of power exclusively to the rear wheels and absence ofĀ stabilising inputs from the control systems add up to a driving experience ofĀ singular purity for the experienced wheelman.
M-specific chassis with extremely rigid mounting.
The new BMW M8Ā models provide a fresh take on the characteristic MĀ feeling that translates into unbeatable directional stability even in extremelyĀ dynamic situations, a linear build-up of transverse loads however strong theĀ lateral acceleration, and neutral steering behaviour even at the limit.Ā TheĀ chassis technology comprises model-specific components and aĀ setupĀ fine-tuned in intensive testing on race tracks. At the same time, theĀ chassis also lives up to the expectations of luxury car customers whenĀ itĀ comes to everyday and long-distance comfort.
The rear axle also incorporates purpose-designed components to meet theĀ exceptional handling dynamics required of high-performance sports cars.Ā The M-specific forged links are one of the factors in the fleet-footed agility ofĀ the M8, while the precise responses of the suspension and damping elements are partly down to the anti-roll barsā improved rigidity. Handling properties are given a further boost by the front endās high torsional strength, which has been achieved with a tower-to-bulkhead strut and a newly developed, exceptionally rigid shear panel with integrated side sill connection. A steel X-brace and an aluminium transverse strut are fitted for an even moreĀ stable connection between the rear axle and the body.
The new BMWĀ M8Ā models are also equipped as standard with M-specific Adaptive suspension including electronically controlled dampers and electromechanical MĀ Servotronic steering. The DSC system hooks up withĀ the MĀ xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Active MĀ Differential and also offers MĀ Dynamic mode. This mode allows a greater degree of wheel slipĀ and combines with the MĀ xDrive systemās rear-biased setup to deliver anĀ exceptionally sporty drive complete with controlled drifts through corners.Ā Standard specification also includes 20-inch MĀ light-alloy wheels inĀ twināspoke design and high-performance tyres (front: 275/35 R 20, rear: 285/35Ā RĀ 20).
Integrated braking system with configurable pedal feel.
As an alternative to the MĀ compound brakes specified as standard, the new BMW M8Ā can also be ordered with optional MĀ carbon-ceramic brakes. Both variants are fitted in conjunction with an M-specific version of an integrated braking system. Thanks to this cutting-edge technology, the brake activation, brake booster and braking control functions are brought together within aĀ compact module. The brake pressure required is triggered by an electric actuator, which means it can be generated more dynamically, pedal feel isĀ optimised and the interventions from the stability control system are significantly faster and more precise.
The version of the new braking system developed for BMW MĀ models also presents the driver with two pedal settings. The driver can choose between aĀ more comfort-oriented and a particularly direct, instantaneous pedal feel.
Distinctive design as an expression of dynamism and exclusivity.
The exclusive aura of the new BMW M8 models is further enhanced by model-specific features geared to the functional requirements of high-performance sports cars. Large air intakes and the BMW kidney grille withĀ familiar MĀ double bars at the front end, lavishly flared front wheel arches, MĀ gills in the front side panels, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, aĀ rear spoiler and a rear apron with diffuser elements in a contrasting colour create a fitting visual showcase for the dynamic potential and exclusive statusĀ of the new M contenders. An MĀ Carbon exterior package is offered asĀ an option.
Character-defining features of the new BMWĀ M8Ā Coupe include the double-bubble contour of its carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof, reminiscent of classic racing cars. Passengers in the new BMW M8Ā Convertible are protected from the elements by a high-quality fabric roof pulled taut over theĀ cabin. The multi-layer soft-top opens and closes in 15Ā seconds at the touch of a button, even while on the move.
Source: BMW Europe
