The standard version of this new 2021 BMW M3 is rumored to come with a 475 hp engine and the competition configuration will have an engine that can achieve over 500 hp. But while we haven’t officially seen anything yet, it appears the new M3 was recently filmed making rounds at Germany’s infamous Nürburgring by YouTube user Automotive Mike.

The video shows the 2021 M3 easily and quickly handling all the tough corners of The Nürburgring. According to Car and Driver, the same 3.0-liter engine that BMW’s X3 M uses will also power the 2021 M3. This 2021 M3 will also have improvements in its body and aerodynamics in order to provide smoother handling and superior performance compared to the current M3 model. 

The Next Generation of Power

As we get closer to the official reveal of the new M3, we’ll get a better idea of its specs. What we do know is that it’s likely more powerful than its predecessor, the 2019 M3, which came with a 3.0-liter engine capable of hitting 425 hp and a Competition configuration that had an engine that could hit 444 hp. This means that if the rumored 500 hp competition engine is true for this new M3, then it would have vastly more power in both trims. 

The overall weight of this new M3 series will also be slightly less than its predecessor, and thus, the power-to-weight ratio should increase as well. In terms of specs, this should translate to the new M3 having a faster acceleration than the older model. The 2019 M3 with the competition package could go 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds according to Car and Driver.

This is slightly slower than competing sports sedans like the Cadillac CTS-V or the Mercedes-AMG C63 S according to them. With a much more powerful engine, the next generation of the M3 should be able to compete with and potentially outclass its rivals. However, it remains to be seen how this new M3 performs compared to sports sedans like Tesla’s Model 3, which beat the 2019 model handedly in some performance tests. 

Other Improvements

BMW is always looking for ways to improve and innovate on their cars, so the rumored improvements to its performance are not likely all that BMW is doing with this 2021 M3. According to Car Magazine, the new M3 will have improvements to its suspension, bodywork, and handling. The new M3 will also have an emissions filter that will make the M3 more eco-friendly. The standard trim of the new M3 is also expected to have an updated and more advanced interior that’s expected of a premium car in today’s market.

At an estimated starting price of about $70,000, this new M3 will feature the latest safety features and entertainment suites. However, for fans of cars who simply care about its performance and handling, BMW will also be offering a trim that strips down all the comforts and amenities and focuses the car on its power and maneuverability. 

The video captured by Automotive Mike at Nürburgring gives us a sneak preview of this new M3 as it’s preparing to make its global debut in the near future. When it’s finally revealed to the world, we’ll know how it truly compares to its competitors. But given what we know so far about it, we can say with confidence that this new M3 will be another great entry into BMW’s famous line of sports sedans.