What I liked about the BMW M3:
- Utterly brilliant engine
- Utterly brilliant to drive
- Reasonably priced considering all it does
- Price includes all routine maintenance for 4 years/50,000 miles
What I didn't like:
- Gives boring BMW fanatics something to brag about
Those looking for the ultimate in practical performance -- this is it
Who should not buy the BMW M3:
Anyone who can't stand being labeled as a BMW owner
Details and specs:
- Body style: 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan
- Seating capacity: 4 (coupe), 5 (sedan)
- Trim levels: (one)
- Price range (including options and $1300 gas guzzler tax): $55,875 - $73,895
- Test car model/price: BMW M3 Coupe, $69,145
- Base engine: 4.0 liter V8, 414 hp @ 8300 RPM, 295 lb-ft @ 3900 RPM
- Optional engine: None
- Premium fuel required? Yes
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, 7-speed double-clutch automatic
- Driveline: Front engine, rear-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 14 MPG city/20 MPG highway (manual and automatic)
- Observed fuel economy: 15.4 MPG
- Where built: Germany
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side (torso) airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, locks, mirrors and seats, keyless entry and ignition, automatic climate control, CD player, alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming mirrors
- Major options: Upgraded leather interior, electronic shock absorbers, backup warning sensor, upgraded stereo, GPS-linked navigation system, iPod adapter, sunroof
- Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 12 years/unlimited mileage outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 4 years/50,000 miles free maintenance, 4 years/unlimited mileage roadside assistance
