The M3 enjoys a firm place as a classic nameplate, alongside more historical names like Corvette and 911. The newest version only perpetuates that legend.
Even though the 4.0-liter V-8 hiding beneath that provocatively bulged hood isn't very torquey (295 lb-ft at the top), this powerplant screams its way to its 8300-rpm horsepower peak with such ballsy strength that you can't help but make it sing its highest note at every opportunity. I haven't driven a car at speeds this fast in a very long time.
From the appearance department: the wheels look sweet, and the carbon-fiber-look fabric covering the face of the dashboard is extremely nice.
The only thing wrong with the M3 is that Mercedes-Benz has finally come up with a formidable competitor in the C63 AMG, which somehow has better, sharper steering than the M3's. And while this manual gearbox is perhaps the best BMW stick that I've driven, I found the M3's clutch to be too springy and the gear change not positive enough for my tastes.
Rusty Blackwell, Copy Editor ...next page >>