2003 BMW M3 Review
2003 BMW M3 Review
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Used M3 for sale
Appraise This CarBMW M3 model years
BMW M3 types
- Coupe
- Convertible
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
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 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).
Edmunds says
Several of our editors would be driving one today if we were in a more lucrative field. Lotto tickets, anyone?
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$297/mo for M3 Base
M3 Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2003 BMW M3.
5 star(89%)
4 star(8%)
3 star(3%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
84 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
Mid-life ride
mgrif32, 04/27/2012
2003 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
I bought my M3 in December with 71k miles...had been looking for one for three years before this one rolled on the lot. It has been everything I hoped, and I've even managed to get 21 mpg combined city/hwy. The ride is a little bumpy, largely because of the tight suspension and low-profile tires. But every time I drive it, I get a smile on my face. I don't drive it hard, but I do look … forward to on ramps, and it's nice having "video game" speed whenever I want to pass on the highway. Press the accelerator, and it takes off. The stereo is good, but not great, and the factory navigation is obviously a bit outdated, but still neat to have.
5 out of 5 stars
Best value for the money
Grant, 11/16/2015
2003 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
This car is possibly on of the greatest M cars ever built. The car handles like a surgeons scalpel. Acceleration is good, but not great. When compared to my dads car which is an e60 M5, it lacks the "push you back in your seat" factor that you get from that nazi V10. As my daily driver, it is very comfortable to drive around town as well as on the freeway. The SMG is NOT BAD! Treat … it like the transmission it is. It is not an automatic. Simply let of the gas when you are changing gear. I do sometimes wish I went for the good ol' standard box, but when driving home late at night, its nice to have an auto mode to take care of changing gear for me. The car has potential for good gas mileage, but if you drive it like its meant to be driven, it won't. We loved this car so much that we bought another one for strict track use. With a little effort and a sawzall, we got her down to about 2900 without a driver. The already insane handling was exponentially increased with some of KW coil-overs and a set of slicks. Nothing more was needed from that 8000 rpm screamer so we left it alone. When in doubt, get the M. You wont regret it.
5 out of 5 stars
Love this Car.
Arthur Bartosik, 11/10/2002
2003 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Awsome car, suggestion, lower price a
little, more people will buy.
3.63 out of 5 stars
Wish I had a Vette
GirlOutOfControl, 08/29/2003
2003 BMW M3 2dr Convertible (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
I have driven too many sports cars to
list. As for the M3, I agree with
the guy who wrote in about the
Corvette. If the vette had a back
seat for my son, then, I would own
the "Ultimate Driving Machine". I
believe there is too much hype
over a car that pales in comparison to
the vette overall and watch your fuel
consumption...the 8-cylinder Vette has
them beat there … too!
Don't get me wrong; I do love the M3,
because it offers safety, room for 4
passengers and sleek looks, but c'mon,
it certainly is NOT "scarry" as one
critic wrote in.
2003 M3 Highlights
Coupe
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $46,500 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $297/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 9.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the M3 include:
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
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