The BMW M3 is a high-performance German sports car that was first available for sale in the late 1980s. The first generation M3 has an inline four-cylinder engine with 2.3L of displacement. BMW built the E30 M3 to fulfill homologation requirements, and the M3 shares very few parts (hood and roof) with the mass-produced 3-Series car. The wider fenders, more aggressive bumpers, extended rocker panels, spoiler, and modified C-pillar to lower the angle of the rear glass give the M3 a more aggressive look while improving aerodynamics.

Switching from an inline four-cylinder to an inline six-cylinder engine is one of the most notable updates of the E36 M3. The introduction of the M3 sedan was another significant change. Previously, the M3 was only available in coupe and convertible body styles. The first year the E36 M3 was available in the United States was 1995, with a 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine. The following model years utilize a 3.2L six-cylinder engine that produces the same 240 horsepower but increases torque output from 225 LB-FT to 236 LB-FT. While 11 LB-FT of torque may not seem like a significant improvement, the peak torque is lower in the RPM range, making it more useable during everyday driving.

Featuring softer bodylines than the first two M3 generations, the E46 M3 features the signature kidney grilles, which have become more prominent throughout the following generations. The E46 M3 features a 3.2L inline six-cylinder engine like its predecessor, but the power output differs significantly. With a redline of more than 8,000 RPMs and over 100 additional horsepower, the newly designed engine further elevated the M3's performance to a new league.

Departing from the decades-long tradition of using inline engines, the E9X M3 (E90, E92, E93) models feature a 4.0L V8 engine with an 8,300 RPM redline and over 400 horsepower. The high-revving V8 engine makes the E90 arguably the best-sounding M3 ever produced and unique since it's the only generation to feature an eight-cylinder engine.

BMW further boosted the performance of the M3 during the F80 generation. The F80 returns to the M3's roots using a 3.0 inline six-cylinder engine, but it also marks the first appearance of forced induction. Twin-turbocharging the engine allows maximum torque output lower in the RPM range, and the forged crankshaft helps improve performance and reliability.

Building upon the turbocharged success of the F80 M3, the G80 turns the boost up another level. Although the peak torque happens higher in the RPM range, it shouldn't be noticeable during spirited driving in the upper end of the powerband. Also, the nearly 50 additional horsepower will improve performance at higher speeds. The G80 M3 is known for its supercar-like performance and polarizing style. The sixth generation of M3 features the most prominent kidney grilles that stretch from the top to the bottom of the front bumper.

BMW M3 Generations

Used BMW M3 Prices by Generation

BMW E30 M3 - $101,164 Average Price
BMW E36 M3 - $31,476 Average Price
BMW E46 M3 - $31,298 Average Price
BMW E9X M3 (E90, E92, E93) - $36,795 Average Price
BMW F80 M3 - $47,769 Average Price
BMW G80 M3 - $82,430 Average Price

BMW M3 Buying Tips

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1988 BMW M3