BMW M4 proves an impressive machine

IT is not unique to petrolheads, but their ability to engage in lengthy, detailed and often terribly dull discussions about the relative merits of individual cars — or, specifically, their engines — can characterise the breed.

A case in point is the ongoing debate about the BMW M3 and the replacement of the old V8, normally-aspirated powerplant with a twin-turbo straight-six, which has engaged BMW-istas like few other topics.

Indeed, the level of vitriol against the company, across a variety of internet and social media forums, is almost bewildering.