2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe

The first-generation E30-series BMW M3 wasn't the fastest M3 ever built. It certainly wasn't the most luxurious or the most refined. But it was the smallest, purest and, in the opinion of many, the most dynamic M3 from a driver's perspective. And it's the E30 M3 that BMW attempts to channel with the new 1 Series M Coupe.

Consider the 1 Series M Coupe's dimensions. Measuring 172.4 inches from nose to tail, the car is just 1.3-inches longer than a 1988 M3. Of course, the M Coupe is wider by 4.8 inches, has a longer wheelbase by 3 inches, and is heavier by several hundred pounds (3296 compared to the 1988 M3's 2800-pound curb weight). Still, compared to the current 3700-pound M3 coupe, the 1 Series M is a lightweight.

Compared to the 135i, the 1 Series M Coupe features some significant design changes. Flared fenders and rear quarter panels are necessary to cover a track that has been increased by 2.8 inches up front and 1.8 inches out back. The new front fascia contains a wide central air intake covered by a honeycomb-pattern grille, flanked by two smaller ducts on either side -- mandatory to feed air to both the oil cooler and the supplemental radiator during track stints. On the extreme sides of the front fascia, openings BMW calls air curtains allow high-pressure air to "curtain" the front wheels, reducing turbulence. The technology is applied for the first time on the 1 Series M Coupe. Out back, the rear fascia features ducts similar in style (though not in function), and a lip spoiler is fitted to the trunk lid. M3-style side mirrors are wind-tunnel optimized and M-characteristic fender vents incorporate both turn indicators and the M badge.

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