BMW

G8X M3/M4 (2021-Present) 

The G8X chassis of the BMW M3 and M4 caused quite the controversy with its unveiling in late 2020. While the interior, performance, suspension, and just about everything about the generation received a massive improvement, the front grille became a massive talking point for enthusiasts everywhere. 

One of the main changes to the G8X’s drivetrain was the introduction of X-Drive, BMWs 4 wheel drive platform, to the M3 and M4. With all prior generations of M3 being strictly RWD, this was definitely viewed as controversial as well. Luckily RWD is still an option for the M3 and M4, with X-Drive models being able to switch into RWD on the fly. 

The G8X also introduced the new S58 motor. Just like the S55 it replaced, it is a 3.0L inline six with two turbochargers. With a considerable power bump over the S55, the S58 also proved to be much more responsive to modifications. 

Popular modifications for the S58 are similar to that of the S55, a high flow exhaust, intake, tune, and ethanol tuning can yield over 600whp on the stock turbos. Pair this with some carbon fiber upgrades and you can build the G8X to your exact liking.

F80 M3/M4 (2015-2020)

The long-lasting BMW E-Chassis finally has come to an end; and to replace it, the F-Chassis is born. The F80 M3 came with a slew of changes from the E9X, including the introduction of the M4; BMW’s new moniker for the 2-door M3 equivalent. 

Powered by a 3.0L Twin Turbo Inline-6, BMW went back to its roots of an inline 6 engine in the M3, yet modernized it with the introduction of forced inductions. This solved the low-end torque issues of the E9X, and introduced a whole new world of aftermarket possibilities.

Rated at 425hp and 406lb/ft of torque, the S55 powered F8X is no slouch in stock form. Despite most manufacturers straying away from manual transmissions, the F8X comes standard with a 6 speed manual transmission, with its 7-speed DCT counterpart being optional. 

With the addition of an aftermarket set of downpipes, intakes, and intercooler and heat exchanger, power levels of 500whp+ are easily achievable. Add E85 and methanol injection into the mix and you can reach 600whp on the stock turbos. If that is not enough for you, upgraded turbos are an option as well, allowing for 700whp+. 

As with most BMW M-Motors, the S55 has its achilles heel as well, the dreaded crank hub issue. Similar to the rod bearing in the S65, this issue is constantly debated upon in the forums and groups. The general consensus is that the issue is more common in DCT cars that have been modified, yet some instances of the crank hub (spinning) have been reported in bone-stock cars. We believe that if you are looking for piece of mind and want to be able to drive your F8X without worry, then you should consider upgrading your crank hub.