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BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3-Series automobile made by BMW Motorsport. First introduced at the Amsterdam Motor Show in 1986, the M3 has been made from various 3-Series versions throughout the years, including the E30, E36, E46, E92 and the F80. The model range generally included a saloon, coupe, and convertible, however only the E92 and E36 consisted of all three types.

From E30 up to E92/E93 M3 only with 2-door body style both coupe and convertible; E92 M3 introduced a sports saloon version while retaining its powertrain. By the introduction of F80 M3 body style only in saloon. M-version M3 is differ from the regular 3-series but some components were changed purposely built both performance and track. A unique box-flared wheel arches were used to accommodate a wider track width and larger wheels/tyres.

BMW M3 temporary cease the production in the effect of emission changes, then returned in 2021 with newer G80. Like F80, it retained the powertrain with the optional of ZF automatic gearbox only in 4WD (AWD).

Overall dimension is increased after the introduction of the E36 M3 but retains it's shape with redesigned signature Hofmeister link in B-pillar.

Over time the M3, recipe, changed drastically, but still followed suite. The E36 became the first to have an inline-six engine and likewise the E46 came with the option of a flappy paddle gearbox. E92 M3, consisted of both manual and flappy paddle gearboxes as well as a V8. The F80 was the first M3 to be turbocharged, fitted with a double-clutch gearbox and electric power steering. The AWD is also offered as optional after the introduction of the G80, it retains the turbocharged with newer engine and the manual gearbox (offers only in RWD).

E30 M3 only in smaller inline-4 with 2 to 2.5-litre.

Appearances[]

  • In Apocalypse Clarkson, when finding out the best handling car, Jeremy praises the E36 M3, due to it feeling not that different to a sports car despite being a saloon. Despite this it doesn't make the top 3.
  • In Series 2, Episode 2, at the Top Gear Test Track, Jeremy compares the E46 M3 to the Audi S4. While he admits the S4 is a better road car, he believes the M3 is a more exciting car. At the hands of the Black Stig, the M3 sets a lap of 1:31.8 .
  • In Series 3, Episode 2, Jeremy heads to the Isle of Man to test out the E46 M3 CSL. He praises the car's speed, handling, excitement and rawness, stating that its "BMW at it's absolute best". At the hands of the Stig, around the Top Gear Test Track, it sets a time of 1:28.2.
  • Later that same episode, Richard and James take a look at three M cars in the Isle of Man. Richard reviews, the ultimate M car, the E30 M3, praising it's racing nature, huge power and addictive handling stating that it would make him live on the Isle of Man.
  • In Series 3, Episode 3, Jeremy puts the E46 M3 CSL in the "Seriously Uncool" section of the Cool Wall, with both Jeremy and Richard criticizing the CSL's carbon roof.
  • In Clarkson: Hot Metal, Jeremy revisits the E46 M3 CSL, once again praising its handling, speed and excitement and racing it against an original 3.0L CSL overtaking the original in just 3 laps, concluding that the new CSL is the best BMW ever.
  • In Series 10, Episode 10, Richard tests the E92 M3 Coupe at the Ascari Race Track in Spain, against James in the Audi RS4 and Jeremy in the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. Despite losing in a drag race, a practicality test to the AMG, and breaking the Cock-o-meter, the M3 proves to be four seconds quicker than both of it's rivals around the track and a more effective drifter than the AMG. After initially teasing Richard over the M3, Jeremy states it to be a sublime masterpiece, with all three agreeing that it was the best.
  • In Series 11, Episode 1, the E92 M3 Saloon takes part in a fuel economy test against a Toyota Prius, keeping up with the Prius, and proving to be more economical.
  • In Series 11, Episode 2, the E92 M3 is promoted to the "Cool" section of the Cool Wall, while the B7 Audi RS4 is dethroned into the "Uncool" section, becoming a new "cock car".
  • In Series 12, Episode 5, Jeremy compares the E92 M3 Saloon to the new Lexus IS-F at the Top Gear Test Track. Despite stating that the IS-F did some things brilliantly, he stated that the M3 did everything brilliantly and that those who didn't buy one were "cocks". At the hands of the Stig, the M3 sets a time of 1:25.1.
  • In Top Gear Australia, S01E01, the Stig sets a lap in the M3 of 1:13.40.
  • In Clarkson: Duel, Jeremy attempts to teach test driver Anthony Davidson how to drift an E92 M3 Coupe. Despite this the M3 fails to hit any of the apples, being two poised rather than a drifter.
  • In Series 15, Episode 2, Richard buys a used E36 M3 as the best Track Sport Saloon, against Jeremy's Ford Sierra RS Sapphire Cosworth and James' Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5L Cosworth. Despite being the fastest both in a straight line and round the track as well as the most practical (according to the Umpa band), it was shown to have poor build quality. Ultimately Richard loses to James, due to his Mercedes being cheaper.
  • In Series 16, Episode 5, Jeremy compares the E92 M3 Competition Coupe to the Audi RS5 at the Top Gear Test Track. He finds both cars to be irritating and pointless, with the M3 Competition having no improvements over the standard car and the RS5 to be simply awful. At the hands of the Stig, the M3 Competion sets a time of 1:26.2 on a wet track.
  • In Top Gear: The Worst Car in the History of the World, Jeremy and James test out a limited edition E92 M3 Competition Coupe, stating it to be pretty much perfect and way way better than the X3.
  • In Series 20, Episode 2, an E92 M3 travels at a speed of 90.25mph through the follow through during Jeremy's review of the BAC Mono.
  • In Series 22, Episode 4, Jeremy reviews the F80 M3 at the Top Gear Test Track. Despite being critical of its new electric power steering, he praises its sublime handling, speed, refinement and build quality. He then decides between the M3 and the new hybrid i8 in Whitby, ultimately preferring the i8, but then later decided on the M3 due to the i8s faults.
  • In Series 23, Episode 5, Harris uses both an F80 and E36 M3 when reviewing the M2.
  • In Series 24, Episode 2, during his review of the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, Harris compares it to the F80 M3 Competition, ultimately preferring the Alfa. The M3 proves to be 0.2 of a second slower than the Giulia.
  • In Oh' Canada, the trio's SUVs prove to be slower than an F80 M3 round the Area 27 Race Track.
  • In Series 27, Episode 2, during his review of the Tesla Model 3 Performance, Harris manages to beat both an F80 M3 CS and a Giulia Quadrifoglio, but fails to beat a C63 AMG S.
  • In Bah Hambug-atti, the E92 M3 participated with it's office employee in the office car park race, where the race becomes competitive at the finals against the SEAT Leon Cupra R. Initially, fell behind on the corners includes the oversteer but managed to catch-up on straight, then won the race.
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