BMW M GmbH is embarking on its first foray into the world of luxury motoring with two new high-performance sports cars, the BMW M8 Competition Coupé and M8 Competition Convertible.

The new models derive their performance from the most powerful engine ever developed for a BMW M GmbH car: a high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology producing 625hp. Two turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection with increased pressure, plus cooling and oil supply systems designed for driving at the limit on the track combine to deliver supreme performance and handling.

The high-performance power unit is aligned to an eight-speed M Steptronic before it is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The rear-wheel bias of M xDrive delivers assured handling with optimised traction. The performance-focused character of the engine and transmission enables the BMW M8 Competition Coupé to sprint from zero to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds and from zero to 124 mph in 10.6 seconds while the Convertible will complete the task in 3.3 and 11.1 seconds respectively.

All models have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, rising to 189 mph if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified. The Coupé’s average fuel consumption is 25.2-25.4 mpg with CO2 emissions of 253-252 g/km while the Convertible’s fuel combined fuel consumption is 25-25.2 mpg with CO2 emissions of 256-254 g/km.

V8 engine with signature M performance traits
The high-revving 4.4-litre V8 engine in the new models works alongside two turbochargers – positioned in the ‘V’ between the cylinder banks for optimised efficiency – and indirect charge air cooling help the engine to deliver outstanding performance.

The specially tuned responses of the engine powering the BMW M8 Competition Coupé and Convertible means that peak torque of 750Nm is delivered at 5,800 rpm and develops a maximum output of 625hp at 6,000rpm. The V8 teams up with a special engine mounting for a more rigid connection with the vehicle structure. This results in even more direct engine response and immediate transmission of power to the drivetrain. The stiffer engine mounting also has a positive effect on the immediacy of turn-in and the transmission of engine noise into the cabin.

Model-specific exhaust system with a racing soundtrack
The engine’s immense thrust is accompanied by a stirring soundtrack courtesy of the model-specific exhaust system that features twin tailpipes with a diameter of 100 millimetres apiece. The acoustic character also changes according to the set up selected by the driver. Whichever mode is engaged, the driver can dial down the engine’s aural impact using the M Sound Control button on the centre console. By selecting SPORT PLUS the engine’s response and sound becomes even closer to the world of motor racing.

M xDrive all-wheel-drive system
The rear-wheel-biased version of the M xDrive system only brings the front wheels into play when the rear wheels reach their power-transferring limits, and additional traction is required. The driver can also configure the distribution of power between the front and rear wheels, as required, via the Set-up menu. The default 4WD provides maximum traction and controllable handling while 4WD Sport mode turns the intensity of the driving experience up another notch with a noticeable sharpening of the car’s agility. Here, the system diverts a larger slice of engine power to the rear wheels. Deactivating the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) transfers power exclusively to the rear wheels for a more exhilarating drive.

Chassis: Poise and performance of the highest order
Minimised weight, a low centre of gravity, an ideally sized wheelbase and wide tracks along with excellent torsional rigidity from the M-specific chassis ensure the BMW M8 Competition models stand out for pure driving enjoyment. It is the result of extensive testing at BMW Group’s test track in Miramas in southern France, the winter testing centre in Arjeplog, Sweden and the Nürburgring Nordschleife, 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 model-specific chassis technology was designed and tuned with the specific demands of track use in mind while also delivering every-day driving and long-distance comfort.

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