BMW
The benchmark sport sedan. Six generations from E30 to G80. M3 has been the standard against which all sport sedans are measured.
The BMW M3 is BMW's most iconic performance car, in continuous production since 1986 across six generations: E30 (1986-1991), E36 (1992-1999), E46 (2000-2006), E92 (2007-2013, only V8 M3 ever), F80 (2014-2018), and current G80 (2021+). The M3 has been the benchmark against which all sport sedans are measured for nearly 40 years. The E30 M3 (1986-1991) is the original. Boxed fenders, S14 four-cylinder, homologation special for Group A touring car racing. The car won more touring car races than any other car of its era. Limited production (around 18,000 units total) and motorsport pedigree have driven values to over $200,000 for clean examples. The E46 M3 (2000-2006) is widely considered the best M3. The S54 inline-six revs to 8,000 rpm naturally aspirated, the chassis is balanced and engaging, and the manual transmission (or SMG automated manual) was offered. The CSL variant of the E46 M3 is even more focused, with reduced weight, stiffer chassis, and exclusive trim. The E92 M3 (2007-2013) is the only V8 M3 ever produced. The S65 4.0-liter V8 makes 414 horsepower at 8,400 rpm. The chassis is heavier than the E46 but provides a different character; the V8 sound and the response across the rev range are distinct from inline-six M3s. The current G80 M3 (2021+) uses the S58 twin-turbo inline-six making 473-543 horsepower (depending on trim). Available with manual or eight-speed automatic, RWD or M xDrive AWD optional. The aggressive front grille has been polarizing. On WhipJury, M3 submissions are highly active across all generations. E30, E36, E46, E92 (V8), F80, and G80 examples all submit regularly. The community recognizes the M3 as one of the seminal sport sedans.
E30 (1986-1991). Boxed fenders, S14 four-cylinder, homologation special. Won more touring car races than any other car of its era.
E36 (1992-1999). S50 or S52 inline-six. North American versions were detuned but remained highly regarded.
E46 (2000-2006). S54 3.2-liter naturally aspirated inline-six revs to 8,000 rpm. The connoisseur M3.
E92 (2007-2013). S65 4.0-liter V8 making 414 horsepower at 8,400 rpm. Only V8 M3.
F80 (2014-2018). S55 twin-turbo inline-six. First turbocharged M3.
G80 (2021+). Current. S58 twin-turbo inline-six, 473-543 horsepower. AWD M xDrive optional.
M3 submissions are highly active. E46 examples are particularly popular. E92 V8 cars reliably top voting. The community recognizes the M3 across all generations as one of the seminal sport sedans.