I've owned almost every iteration of the BMW M3 except the E30 which is actually one of my favorite cars. A college buddy had one in the mid 90's when we were in school and I was always envious about his little 4 cylinder. At the time I could not afford one and had a Eclipse GSX. Although both cars were 4 cylinders they could not be more different!
I've had the E36, E46, and just a few weeks ago picked up a E90 m3 just for DD duties when I have the kids with me. Love the car and can't complain too much with the new addition to our stable. It does everything well 90% of the time. The M3 replaced another 4-door V8 car, my IS-F and I swear the IS-F is much less thirsty than the M3.
Positives:
- DCT tranny is amazingly fast and smooth (light years ahead of SMG)
- Chassis and brakes are near perfect for balance and feel
- Steering wheel is so meaty I can hold it forever!
- Seats 5 if needed and fits my kids Recaro perfectly
- Fold down seats means I can still carry paintings and one kid at the same time
- Exterior lines are the meanest of any sedan
- V8 exhaust note with the Akrapovic is harmonious
Negatives:
- Still dislike the iDrive compared to Lexus touchscreen
- No backup cam, has the ancient PDC beep beep
- Super thirsty for fuel, computer shows 14.5 mpg (and this is light footed driving)
- BMW Service can learn a few things from Lexus still
But the best part of this car is that I can share the fun driving experience with my kids which ranks at the top of my list these days
Siblings sharing garage space!
I've had the E36, E46, and just a few weeks ago picked up a E90 m3 just for DD duties when I have the kids with me. Love the car and can't complain too much with the new addition to our stable. It does everything well 90% of the time. The M3 replaced another 4-door V8 car, my IS-F and I swear the IS-F is much less thirsty than the M3.
Positives:
- DCT tranny is amazingly fast and smooth (light years ahead of SMG)
- Chassis and brakes are near perfect for balance and feel
- Steering wheel is so meaty I can hold it forever!
- Seats 5 if needed and fits my kids Recaro perfectly
- Fold down seats means I can still carry paintings and one kid at the same time
- Exterior lines are the meanest of any sedan
- V8 exhaust note with the Akrapovic is harmonious
Negatives:
- Still dislike the iDrive compared to Lexus touchscreen
- No backup cam, has the ancient PDC beep beep
- Super thirsty for fuel, computer shows 14.5 mpg (and this is light footed driving)
- BMW Service can learn a few things from Lexus still
But the best part of this car is that I can share the fun driving experience with my kids which ranks at the top of my list these days
Siblings sharing garage space!