BMW M Boss: Next M3 to get tri-turbo 6-cylinder, would love to do M1, no decision on Z4 M

BMW M1 Hommage

BMW’s M3 has been the buy-word for the best combination in performance, practicality and luxury and has since spawned a modicum of M models to follow proudly in its wake. Continuing that trend, BMW M-Division’s Boss, Dr. Friedrich Nitschke confirmed that several new M models are on the way.

“Our pace of development must accelerate,” said Nitschke in an interview. “We can build more cars, and we can build a wider range of cars.”

Specifically with the M3, which is due in 2014, he said that the latest and greatest flagship 3-Series will be donning an all-new 3.3L six-cylinder that is supposed to be tri-turbocharged—yes, tri-turbocharged as in three of them—one of which is supposed to be powered by electricity than by traditional exhaust gases. Rumor has it that the new M3 will have around 450hp and will feature a mix of steel and ultra-light carbon fiber.

“There will be a bigger focus on very low fuel consumption and the new M3 will prove this.” Nitschke continued. “However, this more eco-friendly approach won’t dilute the M Division’s high-performance appeal – as a replacement for the M1 supercar is finally coming close to reality.”

Additionally, Nitschke also confirmed that the M2 is on the way along with the M3 as well as a new successor to the classic M1 supercar from the 1970s. Hmmm…

“We have a fantastic history with the M1,” Dr Nitschke said. “The decision on developing this car is open and has been on the drawing board for more than 11 years. We’d love to do it.”

No specific details regarding the M1 project have been released by Mr. Nitschke himself, but we could assume that the M1 will go against the likes of Aston Martin, Lamborghini and Ferrari. That said, we could expect the M1 to have either a V10 or a V12 under its bonnet, hopefully mid-engined.

Lastly, Dr. Nitschke mentioned that the M-Division is also considering a hardcore track version of the latest 1-Series M-Coupe and reintroducing the cult classic “clown show,” the Z3M-Coupe.

“There’s no decision on an M version of the Z4,” added Dr Nitschke, “but this is something we could do easily.”

– By: Chris Chin