BMW believes we’re getting bigger – or at least it seems that way because their cars keep getting bigger. The new F30 3er sedan is dimensionally longer, has a wider track (front & rear) and a longer wheelbase. The one thing is has managed to keep in check is additional weight. The F30 3er is about 80 plus pounds lighter than the old car.
BMW is using high strength steel and heat pressed components to help increase torsional rigidity. The use of high strength specialty steels helps shave weight, since it is more rigid per pound than other steels. For a car to gain a couple of inches in wheelbase and length, as well as having a wider track and still weigh less is very good.
Engine choices at the introduction are both ‘TwinPower’ turbo-charged gas engines. The 328i will be powered by the 2.0L in-line four known as the N20, and the 335i will be powered by the familiar N55 3.0L in-line six. The N20 produces 240 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque in this application and is capable of accelerating the 328i from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
The N55 in the 335i manages to accelerate to 60 in 5.4 seconds from a standstill. Hmmmm . . . three tenths of a second difference between the two?