‘M TO THE FOUR’
Added 11th August, 2021
, updated 10th August, 2021
By Jonathan Crouch
So. How can we sum all of this up? Well, it’s certainly interesting to note that, unlike its direct M3 predecessors, this M4 was built in exactly the same factory on Munich’s Preussenstrasse that was used to construct the car that started this iconic model line back in 1985, the E30 M3 coupe. That fact apart though, there’s not actually a lot of commonality between that original and its modernday interpretation. The focus here changed from a raw, track-tamed screamer to something a lot more measured.
Don’t get us wrong; this ‘F82’ M4 is still hugely thrilling - even if you invoke just 50 per cent of its capability. Its agenda though, was changed. If you were one of those who had a poster of an E30 M3 on your bedroom wall back in the Eighties, then the mature adult in you would probably find that car too wearing now. Instead, you’d want something like this. That’s where this M4 is so clever. It took its customers with it, understanding that people spending this sort of money on a sports coupe don’t necessarily want something that’ll bite back, give them the shakes and necessitate a trip to the chiropractors.
Are there drawbacks? Well, steering and throttle response aren’t quite as sharp as they were in this model’s M3 predecessor. Nor is the engine note quite as memorable. Many will feel though, that these are small prices to pay for the much bigger benefits offered elsewhere. And the fact that this still remains the most exciting and involving car of its kind from this period. Even its closest rival, the V8 Mercedes-AMG C 63, can’t come close to this M4’s agility and driver feedback. So yes, if this is progress, we’ll take it. In Austin Yellow metallic, with the twin-clutch gearbox, the head-up display and a set of carbon brakes. We’d better start saving.