BMW M3 2021-present

BMW M3 2021-present Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2021-Present BMW M3 drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, differential, and torque distribution. Ideal for technicians, enthusiasts, and BMW M3 owners.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2021-Present BMW M3, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search bar to find specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each section is clearly labeled for easy access.

Key Specifications

Engine Power

473 hp (353 kW)

Torque

406 lb-ft (550 Nm)

Transmission

6-speed manual / 8-speed automatic

Top Speed

155 mph (250 km/h)

Fuel Tank Capacity

59 L (15.6 gallons)

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and performance metrics

Engine Specifications

3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine
Maximum power output: 473 hp (353 kW) at 6,250 rpm
Peak torque: 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) at 2,650-6,130 rpm
Redline: 7,200 rpm
Compression ratio: 10.2:1

Transmission Options

6-speed manual transmission (standard)
8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission (optional)
Manual transmission gear ratios: 1st - 4.110, 2nd - 2.315, 3rd - 1.542
Automatic transmission gear ratios: 1st - 5.000, 2nd - 3.200, 3rd - 2.143
Drivetrain configuration: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or optional M xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD)

Note: The M xDrive system includes a rear-biased torque distribution for enhanced performance.

Differential and Driveshaft

Technical details about the differential and driveshaft components

M Differential

Electronically controlled M Sport differential
Locking ratio: 100%
Active M Differential with variable torque distribution
Integrated into the rear axle for improved traction
Weight: 22.5 kg (49.6 lbs)

Driveshaft

Carbon fiber reinforced driveshaft
Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 in)
Diameter: 80 mm (3.15 in)
Designed for reduced rotational mass and increased rigidity
Maximum torque capacity: 550 Nm (406 lb-ft)

Note: The carbon fiber driveshaft contributes to improved acceleration and handling.

Suspension and Steering

Information about the suspension and steering systems related to the drivetrain

Suspension System

Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers
Front suspension: Double-joint spring strut axle
Rear suspension: Five-link axle
Ride height: 140 mm (5.5 in)
Adjustable damping modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+

Steering System

M-specific Servotronic steering system
Steering ratio: 15.0:1
Turning circle: 12.4 m (40.7 ft)
Electromechanical power steering with variable assistance
Steering wheel diameter: 370 mm (14.6 in)

Note: The steering system is tuned for precise handling and feedback.

Performance and Efficiency

Performance metrics and efficiency details of the drivetrain

Acceleration and Top Speed

0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) acceleration: 4.1 seconds (manual), 3.8 seconds (automatic)
Top speed: 155 mph (250 km/h) (electronically limited)
Optional M Driver's Package increases top speed to 180 mph (290 km/h)
Quarter-mile time: 12.2 seconds (automatic)
Braking distance (60-0 mph): 32.8 m (107.6 ft)

Fuel Efficiency

City fuel economy: 16 mpg (14.7 L/100 km)
Highway fuel economy: 25 mpg (9.4 L/100 km)
Combined fuel economy: 19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km)
CO2 emissions: 227 g/km
Fuel tank capacity: 59 L (15.6 gallons)

Note: Fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and transmission type.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Engine

Type: S58 3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6

Displacement: 2993 cc

Compression Ratio: 9.3:1

Max Power: 473 hp @ 6250 rpm (Base), 503 hp @ 6250 rpm (Competition)

Max Torque: 406 lb-ft @ 2750-5500 rpm (Base), 479 lb-ft @ 2750-5500 rpm (Competition)

Redline: 7200 rpm

Part Number: 11002460110

Transmission

Type

6-speed manual (Base)
8-speed M Steptronic automatic (Competition)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.110 (Manual), 5.000 (Automatic)
2nd: 2.315 (Manual), 3.200 (Automatic)
3rd: 1.542 (Manual), 2.143 (Automatic)
4th: 1.178 (Manual), 1.720 (Automatic)
5th: 1.000 (Manual), 1.313 (Automatic)
6th: 0.846 (Manual), 1.000 (Automatic)
7th: N/A (Manual), 0.823 (Automatic)
8th: N/A (Manual), 0.640 (Automatic)
Reverse: 3.727 (Manual), 4.171 (Automatic)

Final Drive Ratio: 3.154 (Manual), 3.462 (Automatic)

Part Number: Manual: 23007629100
Automatic: 23007629200

Driveshaft

Material: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)

Length: 1.2 m

Diameter: 80 mm

Part Number: 26107629100

Differential

Type: M Sport differential with electronically controlled multi-plate clutch

Lock Ratio: 100%

Cooling: Integrated oil cooler

Part Number: 33107629100

Axles

Front: Type: Double-joint spring strut axle
Track Width: 1572 mm
Part Number: 31207629100

Rear: Type: Five-link axle
Track Width: 1607 mm
Part Number: 33307629100

Clutch

Type: Single-mass flywheel with organic clutch disc (Manual)

Diameter: 240 mm

Torque Capacity: 600 Nm

Part Number: 21207629100

Transfer Case

Type: N/A (Rear-wheel drive only)

Note: No transfer case as the M3 is rear-wheel drive

Propeller Shaft

Material: Steel

Length: 1.5 m

Diameter: 70 mm

Part Number: 26107629200

Fuel System

Type: Direct injection

Fuel Pressure: 350 bar

Fuel Tank Capacity: 59 L

Part Number: 16107629100

Cooling System

Type: Liquid-cooled with electric water pump

Radiator Capacity: 10.5 L

Coolant Type: BMW Antifreeze and Corrosion Inhibitor

Part Number: 17107629100

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the BMW M3 drivetrain

10000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect drivetrain components for wear
Check differential fluid level

Use BMW TwinPower Turbo 0W-30 engine oil

30000

Replace transmission fluid (Automatic)
Inspect clutch system (Manual)
Check driveshaft and propeller shaft for alignment

Use BMW M Performance transmission fluid

60000

Replace differential fluid
Inspect axle boots and joints
Check cooling system for leaks

Use BMW M Performance differential fluid

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2021-Present BMW M3 use?

The 2021-Present BMW M3 features an M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which can be configured to operate in rear-wheel-drive mode for a more traditional driving experience. The system includes an active M differential for optimized traction and handling.

What is the torque capacity of the M3's drivetrain?

The drivetrain is designed to handle up to 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque, ensuring robust performance under high-load conditions. This is paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission for precise gear shifts.

Can the M3's drivetrain be serviced independently?

No, the drivetrain components, including the M xDrive system and active M differential, require specialized tools and software for servicing. It is recommended to consult a BMW-certified technician for any maintenance or repairs.

What is the weight distribution of the M3's drivetrain?

The M3's drivetrain contributes to a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, enhancing balance and handling. The M xDrive system dynamically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear axles for optimal performance.

Are there any specific maintenance intervals for the drivetrain?

BMW recommends inspecting the drivetrain components every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. This includes checking the differential fluid, driveshaft, and transfer case for wear and proper lubrication.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW M3 Drivetrain Technical Overview

Coming Soon

A detailed guide to the M xDrive system, active M differential, and torque distribution mechanisms.

M3 Drivetrain Maintenance Checklist

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for inspecting and maintaining the drivetrain components, including fluid levels and wear indicators.

BMW M xDrive System Explained

Coming Soon

An in-depth explanation of the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and its integration with the M3's performance features.

Genuine BMW Drivetrain Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

A comprehensive catalog of genuine BMW parts for the M3's drivetrain, including differentials, driveshafts, and transfer cases.

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