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By 
Marty Padgett, Executive Editor
TheCarConnection.com’s car experts researched road tests of the 2008 BMW M3 two-door from across the Web to write this definitive review. TheCarConnection.com also drove the new BMW M3 in Europe and in the U.S. to provide an expert opinion to guide our review, to add more information where necessary, and to help you by choosing reputable reviews and by explaining where they might differ in opinions.
Likes:
- Stunning V-8 power
- Precise manual transmission
- Supercar levels of traction
- Grippy sport seats
Dislikes:
- Techno overload with adjustable steering and suspension
- Hefty, hefty, hefty curb weight
- Cool interior -- maybe a little too cool
- A bargain in its class, but no bargain
The 2008 BMW M3 is the first M3 in history to sport a V-8. That's double the number of cylinders it had when it first arrived in the United States some 20 years ago. Thanks to the twofold increase, the 2008 BMW M3 has supercar-style performance in a $57,000 package.
The heart of the new M3 is its 4.0-liter V-8, which kicks out 414 horsepower through a delightful six-speed manual transmission. This tarted-up 3-Series coupe (a sedan is also offered) will claw its way to 60 mph in only 4.8 seconds, and rushes to a 155-mph top speed.
Along with the stunning straight-line performance, it's the M3's stupefying handling and traction that draws in enthusiasts. The M3 grips corners firmly, while the body stays tightly in line like a race car. BMW's added too many electronic aids that can interfere with the driving experience--adjustable shocks, steering, and stability control among them--but fortunately, they can all be turned off for maximum fun.
Its price tag is now a stunning $57,000, but the 2008 BMW M3 handily turns in the kind of performance that brought Porsche 911s and Chevy Corvettes fame on the racetrack and on the streets.
The Bottom Line:
The 2008 BMW M3 redefines the performance envelope for BMW's 3-Series range--but at a significant weight and price penalty. You might be going too fast to notice, though.
Other Choices:
If you like the 2008 BMW M3, also consider:
- Audi RS4
- Mercedes-Benz C63
- Lexus IS-F
Though the BMW M3's reputation brings a legion of fans with it, the new 2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG may actually be faster, though like the Audi RS4, it comes only as a four-door sedan. The Audi supersedan also offers standard all-wheel drive, but it's slower and its price tag is nearly $10,000 higher than that on the BMW M3 or the Benz C63. Lexus's IS-F is a new entrant in this battle; its 416-hp V-8 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission give it a technical edge on the M3 and the others, but loyalty counts in this crowd.
Buying Tip:
Be prepared to wait for your place in line. Even with the 2008 BMW M3's $57,000 sticker, buyers are lined up for the first-year models, which are destined to become collectibles. BMW will offer the same engine and performance bits in an M3 sedan and an M3 hardtop convertible late in 2008, and those cars will come with a new dual-clutch transmission that promises lightning-fast gear changes without having to use a clutch pedal.
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