Quote:
Originally Posted by StealYourFace
My quote function is messed up, but to Pete above, I feel exactly the same as you we want something that hasn't been dreamed up yet. But what if the displacement of a n20 based 4 cyl was beefed up to like 2.4L, through the use of larger piston bores, not a stroker. Could in theory keep a higher redline, while getting the increased low end torque out of the motor allowing for a bigger huffer. Granted, the way BMW must modify existing motors to make things make sense to the bean counters that may not be possible. Way back in the late 80's GM (Oldsmobile) had a modified HO Quad4 with a turbo that made like 250 hp. given the dramatic advances, I feel like there's something here. Even AMG has that hopped up 4 popper that is getting some nice reviews, but that thing is running some pretty insane boost right off the showroom floor.
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So if I was at BMW... normally aspirated version of the S55.
We all know, the future of M is turbo, because of market pressures, etc. But what if it wasn't? Porsche just released two amazing new N/A motors in the GT3 and 918. Both make about 130 hp per liter, while the latter weighs just
308 lbs and makes 608 hp, nearly 2 hp/ lb. For reference, an S85 V8 is 445 lbs and 420 hp, or a bit under 1 hp/ lb.
If BMW wanted to, they could probably do a 3L, 375 hp motor for the M2 weighing little over 250 lbs. The lower torque of the motor would allow for a lighter gearbox as well, so total this would save nearly 200 lbs off the nose of the car vs S55. And since BMW doesn't mind making things heavier in the back to maintain close to 50/50 weight distribution, total saved overall might be closer to 250 lbs over the M3/ M4, and that's before you save weight with a smaller body and other stuff.
Sure CO2 will be higher than a turbo 4, but if there is one place you can deal with that it's in your smallest, lightest M car. 2900 lbs, 375 hp, normally aspirated and razor sharp. Sounds like a worthy E30 M3 successor to me.