BMW M3

If you’re after an everyday supercar, few vehicles can rise to the challenge like BMW's third-generation M3. Capable of delivering thrills with every drive, the M3 offers a sublime chassis with a beautifully free-revving 3.2-litre straight six motor.

Superbly built and fabulously equipped, the last six-cylinder M3 is a truly great car, but there are potential pitfalls too. Here’s how to avoid getting caught out.

History
The third-generation M3 was part of the E46 3-Series range and was introduced in October 2000. It had a lot to live up to, but those expectations were exceeded as BMW’s M Division proved to be on top of its game.

By the following summer there was a convertible option with a fabric roof. Around the same time, BMW also introduced its SMG transmission, offering fully auto or sequential manual modes.

The most hardcore version appeared in summer 2002 wearing the legendary CSL badge. With a carbonfibre roof, an extra 17bhp, stronger brakes and 19-inch alloys, it looked great and went even better. However it sold for an incredible £19,000 more than the standard car.

The M3 CS arrived in summer 2005, with 19-inch alloys, drilled brake discs, a track mode for the stability control and more direct steering. It was billed as a cut-price CSL, but it lacked the flagship’s 110kg weight reduction.

What to look for
The M3 is popular with keen drivers, but crashed cars are still common. That’s why you’re often better off buying through a BMW dealer and getting a car with a warranty, instead of taking the private route.

If you do go it alone, carry out an HPI check and invest in a full inspection. Pick a convertible and a factory hard top is desirable (if you have somewhere to store it), although the triple-layer soft-top is good at keeping the elements at bay.

Work out whether you want the manual or SMG transmission; both are fine but they give the car different characters – if you do a lot of urban driving the SMG makes more sense.

Alternatives
The M3’s obvious rivals both hail from Germany - the Audi S4 and Mercedes CLK 55 AMG. While the Audi was available in saloon, estate and convertible forms, the Mercedes is only available in coupé form.

You could try the C55 saloon or estate if this is too impractical. Neither of the BMW’s rivals offers the same thrills, but they’re subtle, superbly constructed and devastatingly quick.

If you want something a little less predictable, try the Vauxhall Monaro. With a Corvette V8 in a discreet coupé bodyshell, it’s an enticing prospect – especially with prices starting at under £15,000.

Useful contacts
www.m3forum.com
www.bmwm3.com
www.justm3cars.com
www.bimmerforums.com
www.m3post.com
www.bmw.co.uk
www.mtorque.co.uk (previously www.bm3w.co.uk)
www.cartribe.co.uk

Thanks to David Evans for the loan of the M3 pictured.

Verdict

The third-generation M3 marked a return to the original model’s hardcore roots; a much more driver-focused machine than its predecessor, there’s astonishing performance on offer. Many M3s were bought by timid drivers who have covered tiny mileages without ever straying near the car’s limits and these make great used buys.

However, if you’re buying on a budget and plan to drive the car hard make sure you can afford the upkeep. Maintaining these cars is not cheap – but you’ll struggle to find a more rewarding drive for the money.

Extra Info

Buyer beware!

• Check there’s plenty of tread on the tyres because fresh rubber is costly. You can save money here by shopping around.
• Did the car get its 1,200-mile running-in service? This is crucial for the engine’s long-term health and resale values.
• Cars with 19-inch wheels have an uncompromising ride, so make sure it’s comfortable enough before buying.