Launched first in E92 Coupe form the outgoing M3 retained the previous models aggressive looks and impressive build quality, but added an extra two cylinders to its powerplant. And that meant it was heavier - weighing in at a substantial 1,655kg.
Well you can hear the V8 better from here
This caused some anxiety among M3 purists, who claimed that the M3 should be a lightweight and focused sports car. They were also had reservations about the V8 engine, insistent an M3 should have an in-line six-cylinder engine like the E36 and E46. But the high-revving 420hp S65 V8 was an absolute gem, sounding truly spectacular - the E92 also came with a carbon fibre roof, a brilliant chassis boasting a five-link rear axle, a variable M limited-slip differential and plenty of driver aids.
Alongside a six-speed manual gearbox, BMW also offered a seven-speed double-clutch transmission (DCT) giving the car even quicker acceleration (0-62mph in 4.6 rather than 4.8 seconds) plus optional electronically adjustable damping and the standard 'M' button - enabling the car's driver to instantly switch from a high-performance cruiser into the ultimate driving machine.
In 2008 the coupe M3 was joined by the E90 saloon version and a folding hard-top E93 convertible. The saloon offers a very similar drive to the coupe, but the drop-top is noticeably heavier, blunting performance somewhat.
See, they don't oversteer all the time
2010 saw the release of an optional Competition Package with lowered suspension, revised settings for the electronic damper control system and less intrusive stability control, whilst UK special editions included the M3 Dakar, Monte Carlo, Alpine, Frozen Silver, Limited Edition 500 and M3 Performance Edition. And for those seeking even greater performance BMW also launched a staggeringly expensive £100,000 track focused M3 GTS. Check out our
full buying guide
BMW have sold more than 40,000 E90/92/93-generation M3s, with UK buyers accounting for 625 saloons, 2,068 Convertibles and 5,565 Coupes. "Apart from some engine problems on early cars reliability seems very strong," stresses Gary Woollatt, "But this generation of M3 isn't a good investment at the moment - once the new F80 is launched expect values to slide."
Buy if: You want the most contemporary used M3, or you lust after a V8
Don't buy if: You're looking for the ultimate track-day M3 experience (GTS aside)
We found: 2007 BMW M3 Coupe, black metallic, full BMW service history, 60K miles, £20,995
Price Guide
Poor: Under £17,995
Good: £18,000 to £24,995
A1: £25,000+
Special Editions: GTS £90,000 to £120,000