When it comes to legendary performance cars, few badges carry as much weight as the BMW M3. For nearly four decades, the M3 has been a symbol of motorsport heritage and street-ready performance. It has evolved dramatically—from a homologation special to a high-tech super sedan—but at every step, it has embodied the thrill of driving. Let’s take a journey through the history of the BMW M3, from the original E30 to today’s cutting-edge G80!
BMW E30 M3 (1986–1991): The Original Motorsport Legend
The story begins in the mid-1980s when BMW needed a road-going version of its race car to comply with Group A touring car regulations. That car was the E30 M3, a boxy, aggressive machine powered by a high-revving 2.3-liter inline-four known as the S14. It produced up to 235 horsepower in its ultimate Sport Evolution form and was paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
More than just a pretty face, the E30 M3 was engineered to dominate on the track, and it did exactly that, becoming one of the most successful touring cars in motorsport history. With flared fenders, lightweight panels, and a near-perfect chassis balance, it wasn’t just a car; it was a precision tool that earned instant icon status.
BMW E36 M3 (1992–1999): The Civilized Powerhouse
After the raw, motorsport-inspired E30, the second-generation E36 M3 marked a clear step toward refinement. It introduced a more aerodynamic and elegant design language and came equipped with a naturally aspirated inline-six engine. European models enjoyed up to 321 horsepower, while U.S. versions were slightly detuned but still offered exhilarating performance.
This generation broadened the M3’s appeal, offering not just coupes but sedans and convertibles. It balanced comfort and performance like never before, proving that the M3 could be both a canyon carver and a luxurious daily driver.
BMW E46 M3 (2000–2006): The Modern Icon
Ask any car enthusiast to name their favorite BMW M3, and they’ll probably say the E46. This era combined everything BMW fans loved—balanced handling, muscular looks, and one of the greatest engines ever built: the 3.2L S54 inline-six. With 333 horsepower and a redline of 8,000 RPM, the BMW E46 M3 delivered a raw, visceral driving experience.
Additionally, the E46 introduced the SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox), an early attempt at creating an automated manual transmission; however, purists often preferred the traditional six-speed manual. The ultimate version of this generation was the rare and revered M3 CSL, a lightweight, stripped-down, carbon-fiber-enhanced track weapon that took everything great about the E46 and made it sharper, louder, and more thrilling.
BMW E90/E92/E93 M3 (2007–2013): The V8 Era
The E90-generation of the BMW M3 was the only one to feature a V8 engine. The 4.0L S65 V8 engine screamed to 8,400 RPM, producing a glorious 414 horsepower. It was a departure from the high-revving six-cylinders of the past, but it was a thrilling change, delivering a soundtrack that enthusiasts still dream about.
Offered as a coupe (E92), sedan (E90), and convertible (E93), the E9x generation also introduced dual-clutch transmission (DCT) technology for faster, smoother shifts. It was heavier than its predecessor but more powerful and refined. This V8 engine became a unique chapter in the BMW M3 story.
BMW F80 M3 (2014–2018): Turbocharged and Tactile
The BMW F80 M3 ditched its naturally aspirated roots in favor of a twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline-six engine, with tightening emissions regulations and the demand for more low-end torque. Producing up to 444 horsepower in Competition trim, the F80 was fast and packed with modern performance tech like an active rear differential and adaptive suspension.
Furthermore, this generation marked the beginning of a new naming strategy—BMW split the M3 and M4 into separate models, with the F80 M3 available only as a sedan. While some purists missed the drama of the naturally aspirated V8, the F80 proved that turbocharging didn’t have to mean losing soul. In fact, it made the BMW M3 quicker and more capable than ever.
BMW G80 M3 (2021–Present): Bold, Brutal, Brilliant
The BMW M3 marks a new chapter with its bold front grille garnering significant attention, and impressive performance and advanced engineering truly shine. Let’s explore this generation with the latest model, the 2025 BMW M3 G80 facelift!
What are the 2025 BMW M3 Specs?
2025 BMW M3 Engine and Performance
The 2025 BMW M3 offers three distinct powertrains, all based on the robust 3.0L turbo inline-six (S58):
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BMW M3 Base (RWD, 6-speed manual) delivers 473 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.1 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
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BMW M3 Competition (RWD, 8-speed auto) boosts output to 503 horsepower and 417 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
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BMW M3 Competition xDrive (AWD, 8-speed auto) is the most potent, producing 523 horsepower with 479 lb-ft of torque, and achieves 0-60 mph in around 3.4 seconds.
2025 BMW M3 MPG
Fuel efficiency remains competitive for a high-performance sedan:
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RWD models (manual or auto) are rated at 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined.
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Competition xDrive (AWD) slightly dips to 16/23/18 mpg.
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With a 15.6-gallon tank, the RWD version can travel nearly 300 miles per fill.
2025 BMW M3 Interior
The cockpit blends high-end materials with modern technology:
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Features the curved BMW display system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, running the newest iDrive 8.5 interface.
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Trims include Merino leather seats, brushed aluminum or optional carbon-fiber accents, and a flat-bottom, M-branded steering wheel sporting a red 12 o'clock marker.
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Comfort features include heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, USB-C ports, ambient lighting, and wireless charging.
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Cargo space measures 16.9 cubic feet, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats adding versatility.
2025 BMW M3 Exterior
Updated styling and purposeful design define the new model year:
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The refreshed front fascia includes sculpted LED headlights with vertical “arrow”-style daytime running and turn signals, optional Shadowline elements on Competition trims, plus quad exhaust outlets.
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The aggressive stance is emphasized by 19-inch forged front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, along with M-specific bodywork, adaptive headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a small rear spoiler—all standard.
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Dimensions remain unchanged: 189.1 inches long, 74.3 inches wide, and 56.6 inches tall, sitting on a 112.5-inch wheelbase. Curb weight ranges from ~3,840 lb (manual RWD) to ~3,990 lb (xDrive AWD).
What are the 2025 BMW M3 Trim Levels and Pricing?
Some of the key features for the 2025 BMW M3 trim levels include:
2025 BMW M3 Base
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473 hp / 406 lb-ft, six-speed manual gearbox with rear-wheel drive
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Adaptive M suspension, M Sport limited-slip differential, and adjustable drive modes
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18-inch front/19-inch rear wheels, carbon-fiber roof, quad exhaust tips, LED headlights
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Safety suite includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot and lane-departure warnings, front/rear parking sensors
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BMW M3 Price: Starting at $76,700
2025 BMW M3 Competition
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503 hp / 479 lb-ft, eight-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
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19-inch front/20-inch rear performance wheels, gloss-black trim on spoiler and exhaust
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Aero kit with air curtains “Air Breathers” and upgraded cooling
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Option to equip the high-end Carbon Package (adding carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber trim and seats, and M Drive Professional with Track Mode), plus Executive and Driving Assistance packages
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BMW M3 Competition Price: Starting at $80,900
2025 BMW M3 Competition xDrive
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523 hp / 479 lb-ft, eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive with selectable drive modes (2WD, 4WD, 4WD Sport)
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0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds, enhanced traction and acceleration
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Includes the M3 Competition’s exterior upgrades and shares all optional packages
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BMW M3 Competition xDrive Price: Starting at $86,000
Elevate Full Throttle Performance of Your BMW M3 with Pedal Commander®
If you’re after refining your M3’s performance even further, the Pedal Commander® throttle response controller is the ultimate plug-in upgrade for your car. It is compatible with all BMW M3 variations starting from the E46 era. This ultimate throttle controller delivers instant throttle response, multiple modes to customize it, quick installation, and simple removal. More specifically, Pedal Commander® eliminates the drive-by-wire throttle lag, remapping pedal input and offering lightning-quick throttle feel.
Pedal Commander® takes customization to the next level with its four adjustable driving modes: Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+. Each mode is carefully calibrated to adapt to various road conditions and needs. Eco mode allows you to save some fuel, but more importantly, it perfectly doubles as a valet mode when you need to hand over your M3’s keys to someone else. City mode delivers a zippy throttle response perfect to spice up your daily commutes, while Sport and Sport+ modes are right there at your fingertips when it’s time to enjoy your M3 to its full potential on backroads or the race track.
Also, Pedal Commander® goes beyond performance thanks to its Anti-Theft feature. When activated, this feature allows you to disable your M3’s gas pedal, preventing unauthorized use. Enjoy the Anti-Theft feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander® mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year—cheaper than a gas station snack!
