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BMW M3

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BMW M3: The benchmark sport sedan. Six generations from E30 to G80. M3 has been the standard against which all sport s
Photo: Alexander Migl / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

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.

M3 generations

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 on WhipJury

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.

Frequently asked questions about BMW M3

Which M3 is the best?
The E46 M3 is the most common answer, prized for its naturally aspirated S54 inline-six and its balance of weight and power. The E30 wins on motorsport heritage. The E92 V8 wins on engine character. Modern G80 wins on outright capability. All four have strong supporters.
Why are E30 M3s so expensive?
Limited production (around 18,000 units total), motorsport pedigree, and strong demand from collectors. Clean low-mile examples now sell for $150,000 to $300,000 at auction. Even projects with documented history fetch six figures. The E30 M3 transitioned from used car to collectible in the early 2010s and prices have not stopped climbing.
Is the E92 the only V8 M3?
Yes. The E92 M3 (2007-2013) is the only V8 M3 ever produced. The S65 4.0-liter V8 was a unique engine to this generation. All other M3 generations have used inline-four (E30) or inline-six (E36, E46, F80, G80) engines. The V8 character is distinctive and gives the E92 a unique identity within the M3 lineage.
Are M3s reliable?
Reliability varies by generation. The S54 in E46 M3 has rod bearing issues that require periodic replacement. The S65 V8 in E92 M3 has rod bearing issues that should be replaced periodically. The S55 (F80) and S58 (G80) twin-turbo engines have been generally reliable. With proper maintenance and known service items addressed, M3s can be reliable.
How much does an M3 cost?
Used pricing varies dramatically by generation. E30 M3: $80,000-$300,000+. E36 M3: $20,000-$50,000. E46 M3: $30,000-$80,000+. E92 V8 M3: $40,000-$80,000. F80 M3: $35,000-$65,000. G80 M3: $60,000-$95,000+. Limited variants (CSL, GTS) command significant premiums.

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