Quote:
Originally Posted by DGthe3
What I don't get about the V8 in the new M3 is that it is being hailed as being soo lightweight but its still heavier than an LS3. Its still a great engine, but I think there might be a little too much hype for it.
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The M3 Engine is amazing because its a V8 that makes >100hp/L... it does this with a VERY high redline, something that has not been seen in a street car before.
Why does this matter? In Europe (and most of Asia) cars are taxed on engine displacement! Thus, if your a poor Frenchy that wants a fast car, the new M3 will be as fast as a car with a larger engine. BUT you won't pay the taxes on the larger engine (taxes on a 6.0L vs. 4.0L are dramatically different).
Does this matter in the U.S. of A.? Nope. We can have as big an engine as we like, provided it meets emissions regs (which the LS3 does with ease). In fact, the only reason for overhead cams, turbo's, etc is to increase an engines specific output... but there comes a point where this begins to hurt you.
For instance, the LS7 in a Corvette weighs a couple HUNDRED pounds less than the V10 in the BMW M5, but it produces the MORE power and torque!
Why?
More moving parts = more internal friction = reduced efficiency = worst fuel economy!
So ideally we'd all want an engine with as FEW moving parts as possible to reduce internal losses... which is exactly what the modern LS series engines does!
Me? I'll take an LS7 anyday! Best modern V8 on the planet. Compare hp/weight ratios of ANY other engine you like, and you'll see there isn't anything that can hold a candle to it!
~LSx