Like the M5 and M6 or will it have the 6 spd manual?

 

412hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
7-speed SMG III with DriveLogic is standard.

 

This is correct.

 

Motor Trend lists the power as 414 and torque of 295
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...ogy_specs.html

 

I just realized the M3 has a 4L V8 while the IS-F has a 5L V8 yet they make similar power... Lexus must really be holding back!

 

The M3 engine has to rev very high to achieve those numbers and it also has alot less torque.

 

295 trq 8300 redline vs 371 trq 6800 redline, M3s engine tone is wimpy compared to the IS-F

 

Time for the M3 to get an IS-F engine transplant!

 

And the IS/IS-F to get a M3 manual transmission transplant.

 

Yes, they are holding back! It was an absolute must that the ISF avoid the gas guzzler tax and remain ULEV compliant. Lexus could get 500 hp out of this engine easily but it would not have met their goals. ALL M3 buyers will be paying the gas guzzler tax premium.

 

Perhaps if they had proper tips connecting to the muffler they could've squeezed the extra 80HP.

 

lol.. I think you need to here the soundtrack of both cars again.. The M3 V8 sounds like a classic muscle car with cowl induction, while the IS-F sounds like a Ford Econoline van.. Seriously...

 

really??? that's scary!

 

Not that there is anything wrong with 6800RPM redline but anything above@ 8000+ RPM redline, the sound is mesmerizing. Listen to the sport motorbikes or the F1 cars... my friend... that is MUSIC.

 

Ahhh so the tips don't attach but they are still twin exit. Cause I remember the mule running with tipless twin exit exhausts.