The M3 was first launched in 1986 by M GmbH who took what they learned on the race track to develop a high-performance street car that lives up to its motorsports heritage.
The M3 is powered by a high-revving 4.0-liter V-8 engine that produces 414 horsepower. All that power is driven through the rear wheels via two different transmissions, a six-speed manual or a seven-speed double-clutch, and a variable differential lock. High-performance anti-lock brakes with cross-drilled discs work with electronic stability control and M sport suspension to keep things under control. Available options include electronic damping control, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, navigation system, heated seats, various dash trim choices such as aluminum, wood or leather, BMW Assist, satellite radio, USB audio adapter and park distance control.
For 2010, HD Radio has been added as standard equipment.
A standard-setting engine, suspension, and transmission put the 2009 BMW M3 at the top of its class.
Some questionable ergonomics and the overcomplicated iDrive system couple with a pricetag that sails past fifty grand to make owning a 2009 M3 just slightly less pleasurable.
For more than twenty years now, the M3 has shown us exactly what BMW is capable of, and this year is no different. The lower weight and center of gravity that come with a carbon-fiber roof may be slightly too esoteric for some consumers to give up their sunroof, but it’s a nice feature nonetheless. Forget the iDrive, grab a map or two, and enjoy how fun motoring really can be.
Since 1986, the M3, BMW's performance-oriented top-tier incarnation of the 3 Series, continues to push the limits of performance. It’s available in three incarnations: a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and two-door convertible.
With skid-pad ratings that push 1g, the lightest V8 in the world, and 4.5-second 0-60 times, the M3 stands ready to remind you what it was like to be young, dumb, and invincible. With a carbon-fiber roof, aggressive and aerodynamic body kit, upgraded brakes, and a “race-tuned” suspension, the M3 takes the standard-setting performance of the 3 Series and turns the dial to the proverbial “11.” Cheaper than a divorce and without any of the sacrificial pride of a toupee - the 2009 M3.
BMW has shoehorned a 4.0-liter, 414-hp V8 into the M3, which doesn't make its peak power until a staggering 8,300 RPM and boasts itself as the lightest V8 in the world. Before 2008’s redesign, the M3 sported an inline six, and shockingly the V8, dubbed the S65, is lighter even than that - 33 pounds lighter. All this means 0-60 times as low as 4.5 seconds, and with 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,900 RPM, you won't want for low-end power, either. Some questions have been brought up about midrange power compared to its competitors, but overall this engine is 22% more powerful than the previous M3 powerplant. The M3 has the option of the six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic, both of which will deliver 14/20 mpg and have been praised as smooth and precise.
The 3 Series' suspension is possibly the best setup on the market. The M3's even firmer suspension, 18- or optional 19-inch wheels, and low-profile tires still absorb most irregularities and inconsistencies well, but bumps will be felt. That's the price one pays for an almost track-ready suspension, and subsequently ride comfort over rough road is actually sub-par when compared to the M3's competitors. That said, its composure over ruts, ripples and bumps isn’t overly jarring, and its performance on the skid pad is darn near a full g, at .98g, which puts it at the top of the list when it comes to handling. This is no surprise. The 3 Series is the industry standard when it comes to handling, and the M3 simply takes everything the 3 Series does so well and does it even better.
Is it ironic or tragic that BMW, father of the no-frills, all chills 2002, has graced us with the iDrive system? iDrive has been accused of being responsible for taking more enjoyment out of driving than any feature previously offered by a manufacturer. Hyperbole aside, be glad that it’s optional for the M3, even though it’s referred to as “M Drive” on this model. While a slightly simpler version than is offered on other models, it’s still unnecessarily complicated and counter-intuitive. Other controls are simply too far out of sight, or otherwise blocked by the steering wheel, but at least everything looks pretty. Wood grain has been deleted as well as the power sunroof, in favor of a weight-saving carbon-fiber roof, although those who desire may delete that option as well and go back to the standard 3 Series steel ceiling and integrated moonroof.
Several options packages are available, including a premium package which includes power folding mirrors, a universal garage opener, Bluetooth, BMW Assist, a leather interior, and a choice of three optional interior trims. Additionally, there’s the technology package, which adds electronic damper control, M Drive, Comfort Access, and M Drive with voice recognition, high-def radio, and keyless entry and starting.
Comfort is not in short supply, even for taller drivers, and support in the seats is appropriate for the suspension’s pretensions. A fully adjustable steering wheel and seat mean nearly anyone can find a comfortable position, although those who like to sit low and long may cause problems for anyone sitting behind. That said, with a driver of average stature, even those approaching 6 feet or more can find comfort in the back.
Visibility is exceptional even in the convertible, shockingly, and structural rigidity in that model may just be best in class. Also, noise reduction in the convertible is exceptional, with the power top up or down, even allowing you to actually hear your passengers while cruising, a novel concept to be sure.
The M3 comes standard with dual front and front side airbags, and all but the convertible additionally get front and rear side head-protecting airbags, while convertibles get automatic roll bars. The M3 gets upgraded antilock four-wheel disc brakes, an antiskid system, front-seat active head restraints, a tire pressure monitor system, and daytime running lights. NHSTA crash test ratings have yet to be released.
Owners since the 2008 redesign have been especially impressed with the incredible acceleration and handling of the M3, although some have talked about a slightly uneven powerband with a small lag in the middle of the RPM range. Ride comfort will obviously be a bit compromised with the aggressive suspension of the M3, but it’s to be expected. The same complaints heard about the control ergonomics of the 3 Series and the iDrive system carry over to the M3.
Here is my thoughts about BMW M3...
Whether it’s the coupe or the sedan, the 2009 BMW M3 makes its thundering performance known with bulges, vents, slits, and badges.
Car and Driver observes the 2009 BMW M3’s “bulging aluminum hood” and says “visually, there's no confusing the M3 with a standard-issue 3-series, even though both cars share doors, windows, headlights, taillights, and trunklid.” The other panels have been massaged, and BMW replaces the normal steel on top with a "carbon-fiber roof," says Cars.com; it’s the "the flared fenders and nose-low, hunkered-down profile that suggests a nearly audible snarl." Autoblog points out the "M-specific quad pipes" that "let Bimmer cognoscenti know that they're behind something special." "The BMW M3 appears as a 3 Series Coupe or Sedan that's been to the gym," explains MyRide.com, "not like a dude on 'roids but rather someone who's been doing twice-a-days and eating nothing but chicken and tuna." The front and rear fascias are "revised," the hood has "rippled aluminum" with vents, plus "additional vents on the fenders," they add, summing up its styling as "an exquisite machine that doesn't require exaggerated body kits to draw attention." Edmunds agrees that it has “more aggressive body styling” than the usual 3-Series coupe or sedan.
"Heavily-bolstered," the seats "feel custom-made to your body." Plus, the "thick-rimmed steering wheel" gives the driver a "sporty feel," while cruising down the highway. Additionally, "leather trim" and "door sills with the M logo" round out the interior of the "high-performance" M3 BMW, says MyRide.com, with the added comfort typically left out of such sporty vehicles. “The M3's interior has undergone fewer alterations than the exterior, but there are a number of significant changes,” Car and Driver proclaims. “The usual M treatment includes sportier seats with deep torso and side bolsters, a thick leather steering wheel, and a new M-badged tachometer.” The "aggressive design of the front seats" in the BMW M3 captures the attention of Edmunds.
