BMW M3 Review Research New Used BMW M3

The BMW 3 Series has long been regarded as the benchmark compact sport coupe. In the Bimmer world, the letter M stands for the companys Motorsports performance division. These fun-loving engineers tweak a given BMW models engine for more output, upgrade the suspension for even more agile handling and add sporty exterior and interior design elements.

Current BMW M3

Based on the present-generation 3 Series, the M3 is offered in only one trim level among the coupe and hardtop convertible body styles. A six-speed manual is the standard means of sending power to the rear wheels, and a seven-speed automated-clutch manual gearbox with paddle shifters is optional. M3s also get specific hardware upgrades such as more powerful brakes, stiffer suspension tuning and a specialized limited-slip rear differential.

Like previous M3s, the current model comes well-equipped with the latest luxury amenities, which in this case includes xenon headlamps, leather upholstery, heated power sport seats and a 10-speaker audio system. The convertible features a nifty hardtop and sun-reflective leather. Features like 19-inch wheels, heated seats, satellite radio, the iDrive navigation system and M Sport personalized performance settings are optional. The Competition package available on the coupe adds a lowered suspension, a wider track and reprogrammed electronic damping and stability control systems.

While past M3s have been performance stars, the M3 coupe is quite simply one of the best cars to grace our test track.

 Used BMW M3 Models 

The present-generation BMW M3 was introduced for 2008 in coupe, convertible and sedan body styles. Changes have been limited to feature additions, with first-year models featuring a less user-friendly iDrive system and slightly different sedan styling. The Competition package was added for 2011 for the coupe and sedan.

The previous M3 lasted from 2001-06 and was available in coupe and convertible body styles. The latter allows manual-style shifting via paddle shifters next to the steering wheel, and although it was popular, we werent fans of its herky-jerky performance.

Every road test of this M3 sang the cars praises in terms of its incredibly balanced handling, prodigious grip and telepathic communication between car and driver. The downsides of this no-compromises performance car are few: a stiff ride, tinny exhaust note, and more wind and road noise in the convertible than one might expect. For die-hard sports car enthusiasts who need four seats, it doesnt get much better than the BMW M3. Along with a buttery-smooth 240-hp inline-6, this generation of the M3 wooed enthusiasts with its ripping performance, finely balanced chassis and everyday livability. The first-generation BMW M3 was the most radical. Running from 1988-91, this M3 was essentially a hard-edged, racetrack-ready version of a 3 Series sport coupe.

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