2013 BMW M3

The M3 was first launched in 1986 by M GmbH who took what they learned on the race track to develop a high-performance street car that lives up to its motorsports heritage. The M3 is powered by a high-revving 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 414 horsepower. All that power is driven through the rear wheels via two different transmissions, a six-speed manual or a seven-speed double-clutch, and a variable differential lock. High-performance anti-lock brakes with cross-drilled discs work with electronic stability control and M sport suspension to keep things under control. Available options include electronic damping control, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, navigation system, heated seats, various dash trim choices such as aluminum, wood or leather, BMW Assist, satellite radio, USB audio adapter and park distance control.

What makes the M3 a unique automotive icon is not just how well it can provide an enthralling driving experience (and it does), but that it can do so without sacrificing everyday drivability, practicality or even price. So why mess with a winning formula like that? BMW agrees and essentially left both the coupe and convertible M3 models as-is for the 2013 model year.

The 2013 BMW M3 has few peers that are as well-rounded. But for the money, there are three natural competitors, and each comes from a similar "special division." The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG boasts a larger, comparatively more brutish V8 engine and similarly adept handling that combine to give the M3 a run for the euros. Also from Germany is Audi's new RS 5, which looks fantastic and has superlative grip exiting corners thanks to its standard all-wheel drive. Meanwhile, the 2013 Cadillac CTS-V is a larger, American-style take on the M3 ethos.

Performance
Base engine size 4.0 liters
Base engine type V-8
Horsepower 414 hp
Horsepower rpm 8,300
Torque 295 lb-ft.
Torque rpm 3,900
Payload 882 lbs.
Drive type rear-wheel
Turning radius 19.2 ''
Base 2dr Rear-wheel Drive Coupe

Fuel tank capacity 16.6 gal.
EPA mileage estimates 14 City / 20 Hwy