2008 BMW M3
By Benjamin Cyr
Manageable and Muscular
When you start the M3, you're not particularly impressed by the engine sounds. This holds true till about 2,000 revs. Subsequently, it's a whole other story; you feel the V8 power at 3,000 revs and the thrust never stops. While most related motorizations stop climbing at 7,000 revs, this one offers maximum sensation and power between 7,000 and 8,300 rpm. The symphony is simply remarkable. The performances reached while accelerating, in gear and out, will impress everyone: 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and the ¼ mile in 12.7 at 175 km/ph! Lest we forget, the M3 surpasses the Audi R8 and the Porsche 911 Carrera S.
Though this new generation has put on a little weight compared to its predecessor, the M3's manageability and driver communication remain intact. One points the vehicle and it reacts immediately; easy and gratifying, that's piloting this speedster. The rear sliding is child's play given the exemplary weight distribution; even the six-speed manual stick shift handles beautifully. Truly difficult, the task of finding fault with the M3 on a track or road. The suspension seems a bit brittle for our Québec roadways but I've seen worse. Please don't be tempted by the optional 19 inch wheels unless you expect to roll on perfect pavement all day long.
The big negative with the M3 concerns the price. For $70,000, there's a dearth of equipment and comfort. You must go the expensive options package route to adequately equip the M3 which inflates the final tally at a minimum of $75, 000. This adds up to an enormous price difference compared to the 335i which offers superior comfort for daily driving, yet delivers serious performance. That being said, for the Motorsport series lovers, nothing will replace the M3 and I understand that perfectly. |
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