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Fast, Practical, But Not Perfect
The engine sounds beautiful and I love the high revs. Grip is outstanding with the 19" wheels. Four door practicality is a huge plus as the Cayman was claustrophobic. The stereo is great and the build quality is very high - you pay more than an STi or Evo, but this is a car you'd proudly give the boss a ride in. Xenon lights are terrific and all 3-series should have them standard. The manual gearbox is a bit notchy in 1st and 2nd. The throws are quite long for a sports car, but clutch travel is perfect and soft. These cars should also come with BMW Assist standard in case of a flat tire - No Spare is a huge issue. I had issues with the Tire Pressure Monitor when I took delivery.
Too early but here is my 1st impression!
I got the 2011 DCT coupe few days ago. Too early to give any objective opinion, but here is my first impression. Perfect look, wont change a thing. Nice driver seat and cockpit. The M button does change throttle response and sharpness dramatically. You can drive it as a mellow C class Mercedes on 7th gear at 40 MPH going to Starbucks, or as a crazy beast in 3rd gear at 80 MPH merging onto a highway. Power is too much for the street, needs a track to enjoy it. Get used to shifting at 4000 RPM cause it doesn't feel right shifting before that but enjoy the sound. Take a c shaped exit on 70 MPH and life will never be the same. Tried Audi S5 twice, good car but M3 is in different league.
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $22,895133 mi away
- Base CoupeMSRP: $38,590In-stock online
- Base CoupeMSRP: $30,990In-stock online
Everything You Heard, Hoped For, and More!
Listen, anyone in 2020 looking to buy this generation of M3 has done their homework as much as humanely possible. Take it from someone in your exact position, you will love everything about these cars, especially if you get a premium extended warranty which is why in our case we were patient and finally found/purchased ours through CarMax. This alleviates the ONLY two concerns with this entire generation, the connection rod bearings and the throttle body assemblies. To be fair, we've experienced NO issues with either and honestly at this point I'm no longer expecting to!
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Fun when you need it
I have owned many great cars in the last 25 years including Porsches, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Infiniti, and Lexus'. Without a doubt the 2011 M3 is one of my best purchases because it combines fun with comfort and (hopefully) reliability. The dual clutch is amazing and the engine strikes just the right note when you put your foot in it. Handling is superior and the brakes have been great for street use. I have also enjoyed the navigation, Sirius radio, and bluetooth features on my vehicle. To date (albeit brief) this car has been a pleasure. I decided on the M3 over the C63 because while the Merc is more entertaining on the street (great torque), the bimmer is the better balanced auto.
None Better
I have owned Mercedes, Porsche and several BMW's. I traded a 2006 M5 for the 2009 M3. Porsche is a pure sports car but the sports suspension is rough for daily use. The M5 was a Porsche with a Tuxedo. Not much to complain about except the SMG is no match for the DCT in the M3. The M3 is a sports car that you can live with every day. You feel like you are part of the car - it is balanced, agile, and responsive. The DCT is fast and the downshift throttle blips are better matched than I could ever do with a traditional manual. This is my third car with idrive and the new idrive is great - intuitive and easy to use.
The noise
The are a lot of odd noises the m3 makes that can be annoying to drive it around daily there clicking and whoosing that sounds like reverb speaker feedback its unnoticeable on a test drive but after a week or so you’ll be searching the net looking for answers
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Ultimate natural aspirate V8 engine
Exceptionally chassis performance, base in balance between power and weigh. mechanical issues?? yes, rod bearings and valves actuator with this S65 engine, but for me, it really worth to spend 5K in this diamond, I don't think any other high performance car have not issues..?, of course they have. Other aspect is high fuel consumption but who cares.. you pay for what the car give in term of power and joy, if you are concern about fuel economy, forget. this is a V8 natural aspirate engine, and eventually will be a iconic car. I have sedan 2011 competition pack and been driving this car for 20 months and complements for this ultimate driving machine endless.
Bad to the Bone
I've had my 2011 M3 for about 6 months. It is actually a dual clutch 7 speed. It's fast. It's sexy. It handles like its on rails. A real fun car to drive. Gets a lot of attention. Blast it straight or bend it around a country road and you just won't want to put it away. I'm a big fan of late 60s muscle cars and this reminds me a lot of the Chevelle with its deep exhaust note and off the line g force. Biggest difference is that it will handle the road like nothing else. The stereo is absolutely tight, even at ear splitting volume. I've never felt so safe or confident in a car like I do in the M. A touch of the wheel and it goes where you want. Brakes are HUGE and smooth. I am a lucky man!
Owned for 7 years now it is a 2011
The longevity of the ride really matters unless there are major problems early on. Bought in 07/10 This is a 6sp manual hardtop Convert that has provided years of pleasure. 106k+ miles and here are/were the problems. Nav stinks never was any good and completely has been bad for the past 10k miles ( telling it an address to look up or change stations??? it does what it wants to do :( The glove box now wont open :(. But I can still get 22+ mpg hwy. and though the car has lost some power......it still has enough get up and go as to not embarrass Handling is still excellent Do it again if I had the chance ?? 1000% yes. I will trade it in once its performance breaks down or I win the lottery :)
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Last of its kind.
Bought my 2011 m3 as a second car 3 years ago. I find myself hitting the canyons after dinner on weekday nights and getting up early on weekends to carve the canyons or head to a track day. It’s driven to work or family outings way more than expected because it’s just that good at everything and so fun to drive. This is my 3rd M3 — had a e36 , e46 even tried e92 335 IS and loved them all but this e92 m3 is my favorite of them all! The versatility, do to it’s size,comfort, reliability and that amazing V8 sound track just make for an amazing all around car, In my view the only negatives are it has to small of a gas tank and goes through gas like a baby goes through diapers. It’s worth the frequent gas stops for sure. The e92 m3 now has 73000 miles on and all that has been done is basic maintenance and a few performances upgrades. This car could be the family heirloom:)
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I’m never selling it
Bought my 2011 with 22k miles in March 2020. The s65 4.0 masterpiece V8 with Valvetronic exhaust makes sounds that, if angels can sing, sound like my M3. Every time I get behind the wheel, smiles happen. Allot of smiles. Put top down, that’s right, more smiles. People are always asking, what is this thing, what’s under the hood? Heaven, that’s what’s under the hood. Now, my life is consumed with finding the best, most curvy roads I can find because that’s where this car belongs and excels. The interstate is a waste of mileage, I avoid it like the plague. I’m on the list for a 2022 Vette, thinking Z06. If that happens, the M3 is going nowhere. I’m never selling this car. Ever.
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Best toy I've ever owned
Just picked up a mostly base M3 last week. Manual transmission, leather/cloth interior, no Nav, no tech package. I had an Audi S4 on order, and the BMW people basically sold me on the M3. I was hesitant, but after 350 miles, I am SO glad I went M3. The engine is absolutely silly. It just wants to go. And the rest of the car feels like it's carved out of a block of aluminum, just so solid. I'm still in break in period, but even adhering to the rules, this thing is amazing.
Reliability Issues, disappointed
I have owned this car for about 4 months. I was extremely excited about he purchase and initially loved the car. I drove as prescribed during the break-in period and never drove it like a M3 should be. After the break-in period, I only put 300 miles on the car (for a total of 1500 miles) before the car started exhibiting problems. The most recent of which occurred this week with loss of power, slow acceleration, etc. Feels like I am driving a Camry. Took it in for service and they cant seem to be able to find the issue. If they cant resolve the issues, I think I may have bought a lemon. Extremely disappointed in BMW and the car at the moment.
One of the best ever.
M3s with the V8 engine (2008-2013) are a different breed of sports car. You'll be spoiled forever and should own at least one during your lifetime if you're an enthusiast.
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Best all around performance car
The M3 coupe has a timeless design, incredible performance, cornering is outstanding. Get an extended warranty if possible. Reliability has been very good. In 10 years the only problem was the right side throttle activators covered under warranty. Once warranties expire parts can be expensive. But if not raced and properly maintained, the car looks like new even after 65000 miles. Suggest getting Michelin Super Sport tires and changing oil every 7500 miles. Engine is built to very tight tolerances so make sure only Synthetic oil is used. Winter tires are a must in northern parts of the country. Recommend Dunlop M3 winter sport...durable and make the car very usable in all winter conditions.
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You have to be kidding me
This isn't going to be analytical and probably not so useful. But you don't buy this car with your brain engaged. An 8400 rpm V8 that is massively over square and revs like a rotary wankel. In a BMW. With an incredible musical howl. It's just off the scale. Wow.
Exceeded Expectations
Took the car into the dealership to assist w/setting up homelink and asked the service adviser if every M3 owner comes in with a big grin! He said Yes! There is nothing like a V-8 sound and this one sounds sweet! The DCT in M mode is fantastic! I am an old school manual shift guy or should I say was!! The only bad thing is the 1200 mile break -in period and then another 3000 miles of easy does it. However in this car the easy does it is all out performance for most cars. It is not a super car but who needs to say that to my M3. It thinks it is!! I was about to buy a Z06 to support the American cause, however, I drove this and I am afraid there was no comparison.
Wonderful sound, great handling coupe
First, do European delivery. This car was meant to take to the 'ring, drive on the autobahn and tour the Bavarian Alps. A true Jekyll and Hyde car. 6 speed man., 220m wheels, tech pack. Did not get the zcp comp. Pack. Amazing sounds and performance at higher rpms. Not a torque monster (it's normally aspirated after all) but the rush you get over 4,500 rpm is just amazing. Keep rpm down and it drives nicely and, considering it's a v8, does okay mileage-wise on the highway. Dial edc to comfort and it's a nice sporty ride. Go to sport, push the car, and it shows its other side. Carves like a knife. Incredibly composed either way.
M3 Sedan
My previous car was a 2011 Mustang GT w/ 420 HP. The specs are similar for the M3, but the handling is what sets it apart. The M3 is a blast to drive, but you need to be careful as you will be going 100 without realizing it (be sure to set the speed warning). If you are considering getting one that is out of warranty, consider purchasing an aftermarket one, repairs are costly (2x a normal BMW), and there are a few known weak points (throttle actuator valve, bearings) that are quite costly.
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2011 BMW M3 Coupe Review
I recently bought this 2011 Ultimate Driving Machine. Two exotic cars in one fine package. I had a 2007 Porsche. The M3 Coupe has the Porsche inspired performance, but 4 people ride in the M3 (if allowed by owner). The rear seats fold down, it stores plenty of luggage, groceries, etc. Front-to- Rear weight ratio is 50%-50%. Options: 7 speed dual clutch system / F1 paddle shift or automatic drive logic programs, Competition Package, rear power sunshade. Drive it to work, around town, it is a dream. When track Club clinic days arrive, growl around everything in turns...It has more grip and agility than cars twice the price. 2011 is the Final year for the M3 V-8 forever. Don't wait, seriously.
The best M3 ever built!
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this 2010 BMW M3 Sedan (E90). Everything you ever wanted from a sport car, the M3 has it. From its "explosive acceleration" to its "superb" handling & maneuvering, this piece of "technology" surpasses anyone's dreams. From he minute I took it out of the dealer, it has been nothing but "necks-turning" and compliments, everywhere I went, everywhere I go.
Better than 911 or Benz AMG
Hardtop convertible is best of both worlds. Was also considering C63 AMG and 911 SCab. The M3 performs better than 911 for $30k less, and out laughably out handles the AMG -- I also owned a C55 AMG previously and a Z06 Vette. M3 has the best balance of comfort, power, and handling of any car I've owned. I highly recommend the Tech Package for now other reason the the M-mode -- this allows you to change suspension, throttle response, and steering response with push of a button and transforms the car instantaneously (almost like a different car). The V8 sounds incredible and can't wait til spring so I can hear it with hardtop down. Must haves are Tech pkg, and upgrade wheels.
Best sports sedan, period.
My instructor rolled my Porsche GT3 last spring (totaled, we weren't injured!) but I don't miss it a bit after driving this car in anger. I passed on the nav, having put up with a lousy one in previous Bimmer, and not wanting the iDrive, and don't miss either one at all. Also got the blended cloth and leather interior and highly recommend.
Good Step Up for Me
Overall, I am happy with my decision of choosing the current M3 Sedan. I have had it for a good year now, and I have learned a lot from owning and driving it. Previously, I used to own a '06 Evo IX MR, and I sold it so that I could get into an M3. It's not really a step up in performance for me, but it's a much stronger built car, all the way from its tranny, to how the car feels so planted during higher speeds. I've had the opportunity to take my M3 to the track 5 times so far, and I expect to continue taking part in Driver's Education events every month. The M3 is not the perfect car out there, but it is the perfect car for me at this stage of my life.
Beautiful, but disappointing performance
I have had several "M's", including 2 E46 BMR's. The 2009 is a nicely sculpted vehicle as it sits curbside, although some have described it as looking like a Pontiac. It's very comfortable and it handles great. The 414 hp seems unbelievable to me because the (295 ft lb.)torque rating is so low in comparison. I have owned an '03 CLK55 AMG, which had less HP, but far more torque. The M3 just doesn't have the power that I like "off the line." Sure, it will do 150 mph, but where can you realistically do that kind of speed? For excitement on the road, I think the Benz equivalents are far better.
Best sports coupe under $100K
I've dreamed of owning an M3 since I was 7 years old. Since then, the M3 has undergone many iterations. This latest generation exceeds the high standards set by its predecessors. The acceleration and handling are insane. At the same time, the M3 is far more comfortable as a daily driver than the last (E46) version. The M3 has all the luxury features and technology you could ever ask for. BMW thought of just about everything. The interior is simple and spartan, but classy and sporty. The new iDrive in the '09 models is a huge improvement over the previous system -- very fast, much more user friendly, and many more features.
Too early to tell
Presently have only 1400 miles. Haven't been too aggressive yet in the car. The engine sounds fantastic, but the car is definitely not a rocketship. The car turns a lot of heads, but it isn't real comfortable to drive. Hoping to take it out onto the local track to see how she handles under pressure. Except for the power mode setting, can barely feel a difference between any of the other M settings. Hopefully a little more time behind the wheel will help with the learning curve. We've had a number of other Beemer's - I'm still more comfortable driving the X5 or 550i.
Unbelievable
You think you're buying an outstanding vehicle until you actually take ownership. BMW goes above and beyond allowing for just about every little adjustment possible. If you want cargo room or great gas mileage don't buy this vehicle. If you want the driving experience of a lifetime this is the car for you. It sounds like a race car, drives like a race car, brakes like a race car and feels like a race car, BUT you can adjust the power, suspension and comfort levels to your liking. There really aren't enough words in this section to describe this vehicle.
Replaced my M3 with an M3!
I was driving my Silver 2004 M3 Convertible when I went in to browse... Sure. There it was. A Silver 2009 M3 Convertible! Driving this car is a dream! I'm 6'4" and 285 and I have plenty of room. The Double Clutch Transmission shifts faster than you can blink. The M-Drive allows you to customize your acceleration, suspension and shifting from soft and comfy, to mothers take your kids off the streets! One push and all settings are yours. The V8 roars and the exhaust growls. The rear seat is bigger too. Not much trunk space with top down, but whole back seat folds and there is plenty space there. The down side? No cars to step up to now! Porsche you say? Yah... if I were 5'7". This is tops!
This car has it all
Still driving it in, but even under 5500 rpm this car cannot be contained. It has tech, premium, DCT, prem sound packages & the 19" rims. The iDrive is fine - I suggest you try it before listening to the complainers. Sound system is divine, DCT is incredibly smooth, especially for everyday driving. Top down the engine tone gives you goosebumps. I have black on black - it's like driving the batmobile! Top down road/wind noise is OK even at 100 mph. Combination of luxury, convertible & formula one performance can not be beat. It feels like having a new girlfriend...
Outstanding Performance Sedan
The M3 sedan is an excellent all around performance car. I traded in an RS4 for this car and have no regrets at all. For me the M3 handles so much better than the RS4. It also delivers power better, sounds better, shifts better and scrubs off speed better. It corners like a car weighing 600 pounds less. The exhaust note sounds fantastic, like a proper V8. The steering can feel a bit numb but once you attack a corner it comes alive and you know exactly what the front tires are doing (unlike the RS4). The car is a real hooligan and blast to drive. Poised and well balanced, I think you would be hard pressed to find a sedan with the same attributes for the money.
This car is a BEAST!!!
I had an '02 E46 M3 before getting my new '09 E90 M3. These cars are quite different in their personality, but both are great. The E46 actually feels more like a sports car while the E90 feels more like a grand touring car. The power from the E90's V8 is amazing and almost effortless. I ordered the M-DCT transmission and am absolutely amazed. The shifts are super quick and super smooth. It feels like the shifts from BMW's auto transmissions. While I tend to be a sporty driver, I have to admit the M- DCT tranny is so good, I often leave it in full auto mode. All in all, I love it!
"Funtastic super car Chameleon!"
Living in S.Florida and having driven my interlagos blue e39 m5 for 7 yrs with awe and no complaints; I decided to add a younger sibling,an interlagos blue m3 convertible! Let me say this emphatically, "The m3 convertible is an absolutely "FUNTASTIC" piece of automotive creation to drive!" For those concerned by the critics comparisons to the m3 coupe, have no worries, the two are just different animals! Here in the m3 convertible you have the ultimate everyday "Chameleon". Top up you basically have the coupe's at 98% equivalence, top down its a head turning topless super car! If you are not a race track junkie and live in warm climes this car cannot be beaten at its price point. Thanks M!!
Best every day car possible
You yearn to reach 1200 miles so you can have it serviced and get it back in playing form. You look forward to the split second when you think you may have lost control when you throw your foot down. You can enjoy the M-Mode even during the daily commute. At its softest, my wife doesn't mind it.
M3 coupe rocks!!
This is my first M3, but I've had 2 other BMW's, both 3 series. Had to get a car that my wife would feel comfortable in as well, and not intimidated. With the automatic transmission, and selectable M settings, you can adjust from performance from aggressive to very docile. This is ideal for different driver's styles. Acceleration and handling are top notch. Fit and finish also unquestionable the very best. I wholeheartedly recommend the M3 to anyone that wants a daily driver that can also ROCK when you want too.
The Only V8 M3 Coupe
I bought the 2009 M3 Coupe with a little over 28K miles on it in 2021. It has the 414HP high revving V8 engine that was used in the E90 and E92 M3. It has the DCT transmission and adjustable suspension and has a tan leather interior with the body being Aspen White. It's a very nice color combination and gets allot of attention still being 15 years old. As far as performance the car can transform itself from a family coupe to a race car in seconds. Put it in M mode and paddle shift at 8,000 RPM's and you had better be prepared for some pretty hard to believe speed and acceleration. As far as handling it can be set to mirror my C5 Corvette which is pretty impressive. Brakes are outstanding as well. There are numerous concerns on You Tube about engine issues that had me concerned about buying the car but after two and a half years of ownership I have to say the car has been a pleasure to drive and very reliable. Maintenance can be self preformed if you are inclined and will save you allot of cost. The only faults I have of the car is premium fuel and no better than 21MPG on freeway driving due to lack of an overdrive. 70 MPH is still close to 3,000 RPM. And the engine doesn't have an oil dipstick which still blows my mind. Plusses are outstanding performance and solid feel. Zero oil usage in 5,000 mile intervals and no oil dripping in 15 years of service. Very comfortable seats and gauges and interior components are very high quality and what you would expect for an $80K car in 2009. If you buy one 2010 and older make sure rod bearings were changed at 60K. If not plan on doing it at a cost of about $5K. Larry Hunt
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Best car for the money
All Porsche, Ferrari, Maserati owners need to drive an M3 and see that you have wasted your money on the car you chose. The M3 is all the car you could ever want without going straight race car. BMW technology is exactly what they advertise, the ultimate driving machine
Very Good car with the expected drawbacks
I bought my used '10 E90 BMW M3 in May 2016 from a large used car retailer (starts with "C" end with "X") with almost 25K on it. Since then I've done the oil change, replaced the batter, and am now about the replace the Halo (Angel Eyes) - the right one is out- with LED's and the cornering (signal) lights - keeps indicating that the left one is out even though it isn't, but I've read on forums that it's forewarning you before it goes out-. So it's been a relatively decent car to maintain, considering these are all things that required for regular maintenance on a 6 year old car (granted it's low miles but still the age catches up). This is an ABSOLUTE blast to drive (even in the crappy NOVA/Washington D.C. traffic)! The power is on demand and the steering is as precise a surgeon's scalpel! I've had numerous comments from passerby's (mostly in parking lots) who just have to blurt out "nice car!". The interior is beige and the exterior is Melbourne Red with black wheels. The seats are extremely comfortable and the whole ride on a whole is enjoyable (as this currently is my daily commuter). There's some peeling occurring in the driver side door handle and on some bubbling paint on the M wheel (all eventually fixable). Overall though this car is AMAZING to drive (everyday)! My son thinks I drive a "race car"!
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Powerful, great on the eyes, gulps gas
Ive had my M3 for a little over a month now--only put on about 500 miles so far, but its a BLAST to drive. With the 414HP, V8 by far the most powerful car I've ever driven/owned--esp coming from my 2007 IS 250. :) 14 mpg in the city no matter how easy you are on the pedals is a bit annoying, but you have to take good with the bad--kind of a "rare" car depending on where you live. I'm in Houston and Ive seen 2 other coupes, and NO sedans so far, so its nice to stand out a bit. :) Had my M3 "stripped"--i.e. speed cloth, 6MT, no navigation, no EDC, but I don't miss a thing. Love every second in this car--hopefully it holds up after warranty!
Beast M3
E90 is one of the best M3 you could possibly own. It beats its competitors in every criteria. It’s definitely fun to drive this car.
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M3 - E93 great sportscar for a 12 year old car
My M3 handles great with Pilot Sport tires, best of both worlds with the hardtop convertible. Love hearing the V8 roar with the top down ... fun car. Not the fastest but fast and handles awesome.
what a machine!
I'd actually give it 4.5 stars if i could. Fantastic as daily driver and track car here in Germany. Incredible cornering and balance, great v8 noise, could be lighter, could do with a bit more torque, but excellent all rounder.
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