BMW UK has announced details of the new BMW M3 coupe, a model that 21 years ago created an entirely new segment for super-high-performance compact cars.

Originally powered by BMW's first 16-valve four-cylinder engine and subsequently by three litre and 3.2 litre powerplants, BMW M3 engines took top honours on a record six successive occasions in the Engine of the Year awards.

Racing derivatives have also won more Touring Car titles than any other car as well as numerous endurance races. With the new M3's engine linked to that of the BMW Sauber F1 Team, the racing connection is maintained in the fourth generation M3.

The new M3 coupe engine develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit, and red-lines at 8,400rpm. To highlight the flexibility of the engine, 85 per cent of torque is available from 6,500rpm.

Power is transferred to the road by BMW M's six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential which conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip. Like its predecessor, the new V8-powered BMW M3 easily breaks through the magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre. This engine powers the car from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph.

The new M3 coupe is the first full production car in its class to feature a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic roof panel with exposed weave. In isolation, the carbon-fibre roof panel saves 5kgs over a conventional roof panel but it also lowers the centre of gravity to contribute to the M3's benchmark driving dynamics. The drivetrain in the new M3 coupe features lightweight, but high-strength, materials. Using an engine block manufactured alongside F1 engines at BMW's light-alloy foundry at Landshut, Germany, the new V8 powerplant weighs a mere 202kgs, 15kgs less than the six-cylinder engine it replaces.

To further highlight the weight advantages, the crankshaft in the new engine is made from one complete forging and weighs only 20kgs Additionally, the front axle components are constructed entirely from aluminium.

The new BMW M3 Coupé goes on sale in September and prices will be announced nearer the launch date.