Despite the base by BMW, Series 3 practice, the M3 has become a fundamental component of the world of performance cars. A day at the Nürburgring or the day would not be complete without at least one M3. Only the first race, the M3 E30, had become a true racing pedigree, but that was about 31 years, the M3 is faster and more impressive. Now, whatever their fundamental room, the M3 must ensure a balance between performance and handling at any Supercar driver without preparation.
But to know how the F80, is in many ways to the old M3 this model. First, it is the first M3, which is only four doors. Indeed, the BMW model has changed and what the 3 Series Coupe will become the new 4-series. Therefore, the M3 coupe is now the M4.
Read our review of the BMW M4
Moreover this is the first generation, which is driven by a turbocharger. This means that the high-speed, very charismatic M car engines - especially the M3 - disclosed. Instead, the F80 has an effective hammer of an engine that makes the M3 a brutal weapon of B roads and roads like never before.
Performance and pace of early versions of the F80 was never questioned, but they were not suitable for very uneven and wavy British roads. A bad control of the body, especially the back, it is difficult to control the car and predict. The situation was exaggerated by the thorny nature of the M3 drive train.
Retouching during his life have the M3 F80 is nice and even more fun to drive a car. All of the competition (a £ 3000 bonus on the standard M3) made things even better.
BMW M3 in Detail
Performance and 0-60 times - M3 torque makes an amazingly fast car. It goes from 0-60 mph in 4.1sec and 100 mph in only 8.6sec.
Engine and Transmission - The output of the naturally aspirated engine could have provoked the anger of the M3 purists, but the M3 F80 has one of the most exciting and intense turbo engines to sell.
Ride and Handling - The F80 does not have the finesse that the M3 has built its reputation, but it is always fast and pleasant to drive.
MPG costs and operating summary.-The turbo engine could look economical on paper, but in fact as expensive as running any high performance vehicle
Indoor and Technology - The M3 used primarily functional interior glamor, but not the 3 series. A dash of carbon fiber is really the only difference.
Design - A Haubenwulst, flared arches and deep spoiler give the M3 a very aggressive look.
BMW M3 Prices, Specifications and Competitors
The base price for the M3 is £ 56,605. For 425bhp and 406lb get-feet torque, and manual navigation by satellite transmission. TCD dual clutch optional is another £ 2495 - but from our experience, which would keep the manual transmission basic. The race package, with lowered suspension, 444bhp, black coating, which costs another £ 3000. But it's worth the extra money.
M3 plus were not known to be blessed with superb brakes, much less. The F80 is indeed much better, however, but if you intend time to submit to its M3 on the track, the carbon-ceramic brake could (a choice of £ 6,250) to consider.
Audi is launching a new version of the RS4 - something expected this year - not a lot of choice in small and fast sedans.
Mercedes C63 S latest sedan is more powerful than the M3; Its biturbo V8 sets at 503bhp. Despite a Merc shock got 0-62 mph in 4 seconds, only 0.1 seconds faster than M3. The C63 also lacks the precision and commitment offered by the M3.
The BMW M3 finds its biggest challenge in the form of a new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifolglio. The Alfa coincides with the powerful Merc with 503bhp, but can strike 62 mph from the stop in 3.9 seconds. When the Alfa really excels is the way it drives. Yes, it feels fast, but the suspension is flexible enough to allow Julia, insisting on rugged and rugged British roads. Its quick drive and usable rear-drive chassis makes it fun and affordable.
