BMW M3 Review
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By Anna Finger
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The BMW M3 series is a high-performance version of the classic BMW 3-series. The first reproduction of the M3 series was based on the 1986 E30 3-series. This
early reproduction of the M3 series was notable because BMW marketed it primarily as a racing vehicle. The M3 was adapted into a road car specifically because
of its racing focus. BMW sought to break into the touring car racing market to compete with Mercedes-Benz.
This racing focus was what spurred BMW to make the M3 different from the standard 3-series, adopting a more aerodynamic body and a wider track for increased
stability. Most of the subsequent changes to the M3 have mostly been to keep the car up-to-date with the year to year changes in the homologation rules. As a
result, the M3 has won more road-races than any other model in history.
Despite its distinguished pedigree, the E36 M3 GT special edition, which was released in 1994 specifically as a race-car, has rarely been raced in competitive
circuits outside of the BMW CCA club racing circuit. In 1995, the E36 series added a six cylinder engine, along with a more powerful engine and a six-speed gearbox.
The next reproduction in the M3 series came in 2000 with the release of the E46 M3. The E46 came equipped with the most powerful engine of its type, a 3.2 liter
LS54B32, giving the car more than 100 horsepower. Additionally, the E46 M3 was produced without the clutch pedal. In 2001, BMW introduced the M3 GTR, which upgraded
the line to an eight cylinder engine that once again brought the series into its racing prominence.
The fourth generation of M3 cars premiered in 2007, with the release of the E90 M3. The E90 kept the 8-cylinder engine of the M3GTR, but with a 4 liter engine. In
2008, the series added a double-clutch, which enabled the car to switch gears in less than a tenth of a second. The newest M3s are now available in a four-door sedan
model, in addition to the traditional coupe version.
Upcoming changes to the M3 series include a lightweight version as well as LED taillights. The new-model M3s have been announced as being entered in the prestigious
Le Mans race, which can possibly mark its return to prominence in the world of professional street racing.
