The BMW M3 is quite simply an engineering masterpiece. There is no doubt in my mind it will quickly put a huge grin on the face of any driving enthusiast who is lucky enough to pilot one.
There really isn't anything else in M3's price range that offers as much all-out performance and agility. Plus, when driven civilly, the M3 behaves politely enough to be an everyday driver.
For 2010 you can get the M3 as a sedan, coupe or hardtop convertible. Whether you choose the sedan ($55,000), coupe ($58,000) or convertible ($67,000), the M3 is worth every penny.
Under M3's bulging aluminum hood is a Formula One-inspired V-8 engine that pounds out 414 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine features eight separate throttle butterflies (one for each cylinder) that respond quickly to propel the M3 from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 exhilarating seconds.
The engine delivers a pleasing roar and surprisingly revs up to 8,400 rpm. The M3 amazingly bursts through the quarter mile in just 12.7 seconds.
A pleasing six-speed manual gearbox is standard. However, some M3 buyers will want to step up to the optional seven-speed M double-clutch transmission, or DCT.
The DCT takes the driving experience to higher levels. With the DCT, shifting can be accomplished automatically or manually with either the console-mounted gear shifter or steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The M3 also features a specialized locking rear differential to manage the transfer of torque to the rear wheels.
Pushing the M3 hard through twisty roads is incredibly fun. The M3 feels well balanced, has a taut suspension system, offers fantastic steering feel and feedback, and features impressive stopping power thanks to internally vented, cross-drilled disc brakes measuring 14.2 inches up front and 13.8 inches in the rear.
To add to the driving experience, M3 buyers can opt for M drive. M drive provides the driver with the opportunity to change M3's driving programs from normal, sport or sport plus with the push of a button. The M3 behaves quite differently in each of those settings.
Obviously, most of M3's attributes will be experienced on the road, or on the track, but I also find the M3, regardless of body style, to be quite appealing.
The sedan is basically a coupe with four doors. The coupe features a carbon-fiber roof. The convertible features a power-retractable hardtop.
All M3s look fantastic. Their sexy exterior styling and rich finish draws the attention of other motorists.
The cabin features comfortable and supportive leather-trimmed seats and a long list of standard amenities.
My 2010 BMW M3 tester was a sedan, but the sedan doesn't have much room for rear passengers. According to the website, it's called a sedan for insurance purposes. Obviously, you don't buy the M3 for the purpose of chauffeuring passengers. You buy the M3 for the pleasure of driving.
M3 is a beautiful driver's car. It's well sculpted and has satisfying performance that could easily be classified as barely street legal. Thanks to the M3, BMW continues to prove that "M" is the most powerful letter in the world.
2010 BMW M3 sedan
ENGINE: 414-horsepower 4.0-liter V-8
TRANSMISSION: six-speed manual
DRIVETRAIN: rear-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 14 city/20 highway
BASE PRICE: $55,400
AS TESTED: Not available
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