MB did it, why can't BMW?

Remember the E klass? They called it a CE, then E klass coupe, then a CLK, and now an E klass coupe!

 

merc doesnt have the heritage invested in the e class like bimmer does in the m3 though. really sad if they do decide to call it the m4. not too long ago bmw was pretty sure that they werent even going to make a m3 sedan anymore. now, not only are they making the m3 sedan, but theyre changing the name of the coupe? ridiculous..

 

At the end of the day, I know it's just a name. But I would take much more comfort in what you've said if the E-Class name was comparable to the M3 moniker.

My point exactly. The M3 represents some of BMW's most legendary machinery. How can there be an M3 sedan, with the coupe being called an M4? I know they are competing directly with Audi and all (i.e. RS4 / RS5; sedan / coupe respectively), but the M3 played an integral part in creating this segment way before the RS4 ever came into existence.

 

It's pricing. They want to charge more money for the coupe so they have to give it a higher model designation.

That's exactly what MB did with the CLK which was a C Class Coupe for E class money. The current E Coupe is also a C Coupe for E money - check out the identical wheelbase. They even have same suspension and powertrain if configured with active suspension.

 

It's obviously a financial-based decision; however, is more money worth doing away with the legendary M3 coupe name?

Still not so sure of this...

 

If they build the right car, the M4 will equally legendary. A few years ago nobody had heard of the M6 and now that is even more legendary than the legendary M5. Nobody said the M6 should also be called M5 because it shares a platform with the sedan.

 

Fair enough... but the M6 does have lineage within the BMW brand's history. But I can see what you're saying, if the M4 turns out to have the same characteristics we've grown to love about M cars, then it'll be a hit.

 

Exactly. Lineages can be created. BMW has done it many times before.

 

Seems like most automakers are going to the dumpster these days.

 

Yeah like Porsche with it's plan for a full range of SUVs and Sedans, and it's plans for a 4 cylinder Boxster S. I wonder if they will just be rebadged Audis 10 years from now.

Bentley with it's SUV plans.

Maserati with it's rebadged jeep.