BMW M3

Since its first appearance in the 1980’s the BMW M3 has held a special place in the hearts of many motor enthusiasts. The early models earned their reputations on the track, at first glance you may be forgiven for thinking that the latest model was a little tamer, you couldn’t be more wrong. In a time of concerns of global warming and CO2 emissions, BMW have again managed to pull their magic trick  of increasing the size and power output of the engine whilst at the same time reducing emissions and fuel consumption. Facing ever stiffer competition from the likes of Audi and Mercedes, the BMW still leads the pack.

Performance

The previous model was powered by a 3.2 litre V6, the new one replaces that with a whopping 4-litre V8. This engine is made at the same factory where BMW produce their Formula 1 engines. M3 models have always produced more than 100bhp per litre and this one is no different giving a maximum output of 420bhp at a high revving 8300rpm. This impressive power core accelerates the saloon version from 0-62mph in a mere 4.9 seconds whilst the coupe will shave a little off of that to achieve it in 4.8 seconds. The heavier convertible is as expected a little slower at 5.3 seconds. The M3 comes with a manual gearbox as standard but the semi-automatic DCT version is available as an option at £2,500. Although the DCT box is quicker, the changes can be jerky and you still have to control the revs whilst changing gear due to the lack of a torque converter. If you are expecting to buy a fully automatic version of this car then you may be disappointed.

Handling

The M3 has one of the best chassis on the road. There is next to zero body roll when cornering and acceleration is instantaneous. As with all BMW’s the steering may feel heavy at first but it just adds to that solid feel, the steering is very responsive and feedback through the wheel is good. The best part is the sound, it sounds like a formula 1 car with a rampant lion trapped under the bonnet, if you buy the convertible version you will be looking forward to travelling through tunnels, it is that good. Despite the fact that this is a very powerful rear wheel drive car, the grip seems endless, giving you a lot of confidence in all driving conditions.

Comfort

The M3 may be a high performance machine but it still offers enough comfort to be able to use the car day to day. Leather seats are standard on all models as is satellite navigation and automatic climate control.

Practicality

The car is surprisingly practical, especially if you opt for the saloon version. All models have split and fold rear seats and added to the 450 litre boot of the saloon this adds up to a lot of luggage space. The coupe has a slightly smaller boot at 430 litres and as expected, the convertible has the smallest starting at 350 litres which is reduced to 210 litres when the roof is down.

Equipment

The level of standard equipment on the M3 is impressive but then again it should be on a car that costs in excess of £50,000. All models comes with 18-inch graphite coloured alloy wheels, Sports suspension, Dynamic Stability Control, rear parking sensors, xenon headlights, leather M sports seats, climate control, cruise control, electric windows and metallic paint. There are a lot of options available too such as 19-inch alloy wheels, the DCT semi-automatic gearbox, adaptive headlights, heated seats, folding mirrors and electronic damper control (DCT).

Safety

The M3 is yet to be separately crash tested but the current 3-Series salon gained the maximum 5 stars from Euro NCAP. The M3 is certainly well equipped safety-wise with front and side airbags for front seat passengers and head airbags for all passengers. DSC stability control is standard on all models and includes ABS, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Engine Drag Control (MSR) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Overall

The new M3 carries on the tradition of each model becoming better than its predecessor. The engine is more powerful yet more economical and the list of safety features gets more and more advanced. The car is a lot of fun and sounds amazing yet manages to be practical at the same time. The only downside is the price, the M3 has always been expensive but then again you do get what you pay for. Compared to the offerings from BMW’s rivals, the BMW still has its nose out in front.

1. 

   David Patterson says:

   September 30, 2009 at 12:06 pm

   Distinctly average – it has nothing whatsoever on my BMW m5. Its just a paupers BMW… might as well walk around with a big “I am poor” sign on your back.
2. 

   Mac says:

   September 30, 2009 at 12:16 pm

   And anyone who feels the need to write a comment like that certainly doesn’t own an M5. Push bike and living in mums basement, ring any bells?