Getting firsthand information from an actual car owner is one sure way to get an idea of car performance once it leaves the lot. Autobytel features real consumer reviews that give the unbiased experience of a car.
Easily my favorite sports car
Pros: Style and design
Cons: Exhaust note
I've owned a number of cars in my 25 years of driving... 3 being M3s. My wife wanted me to sell the e46 M3 coupe (manual) because it 'wasn't family friendly'. A year and a half later, I still couldn't get over it. I looked at a 335 sedan but couldn't do it for some reason. Ended back with another e46 M3, this time a convert SMG so that she can drive it on occasion. Couldn'tPros: Amazing power and handling.
Cons: Bit bumpy on bad roads (know the bad ones and stay off them, no big deal)
Advice: Get the Dinan racing software installed.
The M3 is far above and beyond all my expectations. Be sure to get the Dinan racing chip installed, once you do this the acceleration and throttle response will blow you away. I was able to get up to 184 mph and it still felt comfortable. I know the saying is overused, but it corners like its on rails. Pick one up if you can, it will take you for the ride of your life.Pros: the engine
Cons: HUH?
Advice: life is short
A fabulous machine. The competition package is worth every penny. The nav system is extremely helpful on a trip. The SMG transmission is a hoot and my wife and kids can drive, too. The 333 horses under the hood are always ready to run. My 2 children can fit into the back if needed. A dream car that works for me.Pros: Engine and its power
Cons: Trunk lock system
Advice: Buy this car and drive all day with a smile on your face
This car is a beast and drives absoluetly fantastic. I am totally in love with this vehicle. The 19' are a must, the HK upgrade is well worth it. I bought a titanium silver car with Imola red leather and it turns headsPros: Performance
Cons: Trunk Size
Advice: Get one
Great car. Trunk is a little small, but everything else is great.Pros: Performance and maneuverability
Cons: Ergonomic design of the window buttons - on the center console.
Advice: Don't hesitate to buy, you will not regret it.
This car, while expensive is truly a 'poor man's Porsche.' You get similar performance, but for thousands of dollars less. Have owned the car for two months now and like it more each day. The car was designed for maneuverability and performance and it does both like no other car I have ever owned or driven. It rides a little rough, as a sports car must, but the true blame for this is the poor quality of our American roads. I look forward to driving the car every day.Pros: The engine (and constantly being surprised by discovering pleasant amenities)
Cons: Initially the exhaust note was too shrill, but it grew on me and now I like it.
Advice: Negotiate a good price -- there are plenty of them out there now.
BMW did everything right with this vehicle. My M3 corners like it's got Audi's quattro AWD, accelerates just as well as a Porsche 911, looks classy, and has room for four. Despite not getting a 100 for comfort, it's still very comfortable on road trips or in the city, and more comfortable than any other sports car I've driven. The 19' wheels look incredible and provide great cornering, but the ride might be too jarring for some. Get the 18s if you want a softer ride. Unlike in most cars with a sport button, this one really does make a difference. Some complain about the HK sounds system, but I think it sounds good. If you can afford it and you like to rev the engine to get your power (unlike in a larger displacement V-8), get this vehicle. It has, no kidding, supercar performance with practicality.