Has anyone picked up the new Automobile? It has the 5 current M cars (M3, M3 convert., M Roadster, M Coupe, M5) on the cover and an article on them inside.

For those too lazy to go get it, here are the important parts:

1) The writer liked the M Coupe more than the E46 M3, and there was a general consensus on this by all the testers it seems. I was looking for one (M Coupe) before I found the S2K. One of the new 315 HP ones would be really nice.

2) A little sidebar on the SMG II (clutch pedal-less manual). Basically it shifts really fast (potentially twice as fast as the F1 transmission of the Modena) and there are 11 different shift patterns to choose from. It will also allow a little wheelspin on full throttle. A less elaborate version will be available on non-M cars.

3) Sidebar on speculation of the future Ms:

M1 - based on future 1-series, engine will be new 2.2 four-banger (225 hp). 2005

M Roadster/Compact - chassis from 1-series and 3 series, all new 3.2 I-6 (300 hp). 2007 for Roadster, M-Compact (not for US) still unconfirmed

M3 - Coupe, convertible, wagon - based on next 3-series, 4.5 V-8 (400 hp). 2006

M5 - new 5-series chassis, 5.0 V-10 (500 hp) which may be put in the new M6 as well, also possibly MX5/7. 2004

The coupe/convertible 3-series may also be changed to "4-series."

Back to the rest of the article.. I was a little disappointed that it didn't really go into detail of the tester's driving impressions. It was more a split of M History and engine/drivetrain layout of the cars, all of which I know well enough by now. Oh well.. the cover is pretty.

If you have any questions..... go pick the magazine up yourself.


PS - There is a Mini article which is pretty interesting, since it will be basically, a FWD BMW, and pictures of the new VW Minibus (Why VW? Why? ).

 

thanks for the info