2003 BMW M3 Review
Fuel Economy
17 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
Several of our editors would be driving one today if we were in a more lucrative field. Lotto tickets, anyone?
Pros
Remarkable engine, race-carlike handling, killer good looks, sumptuous interior, available Sequential Manual Gearbox.
Cons
Uninspired exhaust whine, having to pay extra for basics like power seats and an alarm system.
What's New for 2003
For the 2003 BMW M3, BMW will offer a DVD-based navigation system -- meaning that you won't have to give up an in-dash CD player if you opt for the nav system. Additionally, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers are now standard, while aluminum interior trim is a new stand-alone option. The power seat package has been excised from the coupe's option list, so you'll have to spring for the pricey premium package if you want power front seats (these come standard on the convertible).
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Live in Daytona?
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 1 | Interior Design: | 3 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 BMW M3 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Review
This is my 4th BMW and wanted to treat myself to a convertible. Although this is truly a looker, unless you are driving the Daytona 500 to work, Id suggest getting the loaded 330 (or Lexus IS). Racing clutch is impossible to not be jerky no matter how delicate you shift. Suspension is so tight than unless youre on pristine Florida roads, you can lose a kidney on the way to work. But, lets face it, the car draws attention and its still true that nothing handles and drives like a BMW!
Favorite Features
Looks! Superior BMW reputation and reliability.
Suggested Improvements
As in the 2010 model, you really need the option to 'relax' the suspension. This car is NOT a comfortable ride. Fun if on the track, but how many times are we doing that!
Ultimate Driving Machine
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 5 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 BMW M3 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Review
Right when I saw this car I knew that we were meant for each other. The handling will blow you away. Love letting it loose all the way to 8200 redline and then shifting in .8 milliseconds. Love driving in SPORT and DSC turned off. Surprising decent mpg get 27 on highway and 21 on streets and I don't drive like a gramma. Just keep in mind if the road is ruff you will feel it! M3 comes with a lot of options like nav, competition package, CSL, luxury package.
Favorite Features
SMGII, gauge set up, body style, grille, 8200 red line, xenon lights
Suggested Improvements
meaner exhaust seriously, hide antenna
Wow!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 BMW M3 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Review
I just bought this car a couple of days ago. Black/Black and convertible. Let me tell you this car is amazing. Civil enough to drive to work but enough horsepower to totally blow away the 911 Carrera next to you.
Favorite Features
Engine noise through the exhaust and convertible top.
Suggested Improvements
I wish you didn't have to hold down the button to have the top open and close. It should be a one touch thing.
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
AMAZING!!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 BMW M3 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Review
We have only had the car for about 5 months (we bought it used) and we already love it! it is such a great car. It is sturdy and very quick. And during the summer the convertable is great. I would reccomend this car to anybody.
Favorite Features
Everything about the engine is great. It has a great sound and a sturdy feel.
Suggested Improvements
The gas mileage could be a little bit better.
3 years later
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Review
As of July '06 I've owned my M3 for three years and it's my daily driver. It is a fantastic experience. It takes a while to learn the SMG but it,s worth it; once you've got it down you'll never regret it. Buttery smooth shifts or burnouts from hell. The ride is pure performance. You feel like your hands are running over the surface of the road. With that kind of input you know exactly what to expect from the car. My M3 has been everything I hoped it would be. I've had any number of total strangers come up to me and tell me how much they like my car. I have no idea what BMW is going to do for an encore but I will be ready, willing and waiting.
Favorite Features
Ride, acceleration, handling, brakes, SMG, looks, comfort, the whole car!
Suggested Improvements
Keep the formula on the next version. I have no idea how it can get better but I'm willing to find out.
2 out 2 people found this review helpful
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