Few cars in automotive history stir emotions quite like the BMW M3. First introduced in 1986, the original M3 was built by BMW Motorsport. Only the roof and doors came from the regular 3-Series—everything else was new or modified. From the start, the M3 stood out as something truly special.
The model’s evolution has been complex. The first M3, the E30, came as a two-door sedan and convertible. Later versions included coupes and sedans. Today, the M3 name is reserved for the sedan, while the coupe version became the M4. Despite this shift, the M3 remains one of BMW’s most iconic creations. Originally built to meet requirements for the German Touring Car Championship, it has since grown into the flagship of BMW’s performance lineup.
BMW has built many remarkable cars over the years, including the exotic M1, the futuristic i8, and the high-powered M5. Yet none match the M3 in capturing both performance and accessibility. It’s not a supercar, but it feels like one. Unlike many performance vehicles, it’s within reach for those with strong credit or a good financing deal. For many drivers, an M3 offers all the power and precision they will ever need.
The very first M3 used a naturally aspirated M10 four-cylinder engine. Its cylinder head was based on the legendary M1 supercar. Over the years, however, the M3 has adopted turbocharging. The current G80 model uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six that produces 523 horsepower—more than double the E30’s 195.
Yet tucked between those generations lies a gem that is often overlooked: the last naturally aspirated M3. It represents a time before downsizing and electrification changed the auto industry. This version doesn’t quite fit into the M3’s traditional story. It’s part supercar, part luxury coupe. But it offers raw driving pleasure, and now, it’s a bargain.
For enthusiasts looking for big thrills on a realistic budget, this M3 stands out. It’s wild, pure, and powerful—and it’s available at a secondhand price that’s getting harder to ignore.
Used car experts at Hagerty provided valuation data for this article. Their tool shows that this M3 might just be one of the best performance deals on the used market today.
