The last M3 coupe

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The German manufacturer signaled an end to one of its most iconic models last week when a fitting Fire Orange number rolled off the production line, ending a 26 year lifecycle.

The M3 nameplate will now be reserved exclusively to the flagship 3-Series sedan, while the next-generation coupe and convertible will fall under a new M4 series.

The Last M3 CoupeThe Last M3 Coupe

The M3 coupe dates back to the original E30 model line produced in 1986. The current fourth-generation E92 has been produced since 2007, with more than 40,000 units sold worldwide. An additional 10,000 sedans and 16,000 convertibles have also been rolled out.

The next generation M4 coupe will feature a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine producing around 335 kW and 550 Nm of torque, up 26 kW and 150 Nm respectively on the current 4.0 liter V8.

The new M3 sedan will be launched at the beginning of next year, with the all-new M4 coupe and convertible to follow months later.

The current M3 convertible will remain in production until September, while the next generation M3 sedan is expected to debut at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show in September. The M4 Coupe and Convertible will be revealed at the 2014 Geneva motor show next March.

There will be many people hoping that they will be on show at the Bangkok International Motor Show next March as well.