BMW 1 Series M Coupé: Biermann talks about the new M model

BMW M GmbH has revealed further details on the BMW 1 Series M Coupé through its Head of Development, Albert Biermann. The new information handover was made as the international press was being given its first driving impression of the present level of development. Biermann revealed that the details on the 1 Series M Coupé will be presented in December.

Asked about what makes the 1 Series M Coupé so special, Biermann answered that that it’s because it follows the tradition of the first BMW M3. According to him “It is compact, focused on the essential, and presents outstanding driving dynamics. In addition, it opens the door to BMW M – in particular its price will also make it more accessible than our other products.”

The Head of Development of BMW M says that the price tag will lay between the 135i Coupé and the M3 Coupé. For that price customers will put their hands on a vehicle powered by a 3.0 litre inline six cylinder bi turbo engine delivering about 340 hp, with the power being transferred via a six speed manual gearbox. Biermann says that the prototypes already reveal several similarities to the chassis, brakes, and rear differential of the BMW M3.

Asked wether the 1 Series M Coupé would be a small BMW M3, Biermann answered: “To a certain extent, absolutely. Yet, on the other hand, not really. There are parallels between the power and weight of the BMW 1 Series M Coupé (we expect about 1500 kg) and the BMW M3 E46. On the performance side, though, it will be in its own league. We assume that the 1 Series M Coupé will be about ten seconds faster than the M3 predecessor on the Nordschleife. And of course it will have its own particular character.”

Biermann has already confirmed that the 1 Series M Coupé will be about 80 mm wider than the 135i. About the other details he directs everyone to the internet, where some details can already be seen. The Head of Development at BMW M confirms that “you can expect to find the usual M icons both inside and outside.”

The whole detailing on the new BMW 1 Series M Coupé will be announced in mid-December, with the its World premiere taking place at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2011. Vehicles should start being delivered in the beginning of summer.