BMW

M3

1986 - 2022

The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the 3 Series, developed by BMW's Motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. Since its introduction in 1986, the M3 has evolved through six generations, each bringing significant improvements in performance, technology, and design. The BMW M3 page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages. It links the model overview to version-by-year pages.

Variants by year

14 versions

2022

M3 Touring

2020

M3 Sedan

2014

Model summary

Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.

14referenced versions

1986 - 2022covered years

10distinct model years

Model introduction

History

The BMW M3 was launched in 1986 as a high-performance version of the E30 3 Series. Initially available as a coupé, it was soon followed by a convertible version. The E30 M3 served as a homologation model for the German Touring Car Championship (DTM), with a total production of 16,949 units. In 1992, the E36 M3 was introduced, marking the shift to a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing 286 hp, with a later 3.2-liter version producing 321 hp. This generation also introduced the sequential SMG transmission. The E46 M3, produced from 2000 to 2007, retained the 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, increased to 343 hp, and was the first M3 to incorporate electronic innovations such as stability control and an active rear differential. The E90 M3, produced from 2007 to 2013, introduced a 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 420 hp and the dual-clutch transmission DKG. The F80 generation, produced from 2014 to 2018, saw the introduction of a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with two turbochargers, producing 431 hp, and ceramic brakes. The G80 generation, launched in 2020, marked the return of the M3 in Touring (wagon) version, alongside the sedan variant. This generation is equipped with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with two turbochargers, producing 473 hp, and offers the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. (bmw-m.com)

Generations

The BMW M3 has evolved through six distinct generations, each bringing significant advancements in performance and technology. - **E30 (1986–1991)** : The first M3, equipped with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 195 to 238 hp, served as a base for touring car racing. - **E36 (1992–1999)** : Transition to a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, with a later 3.2-liter version, offering increased performance and improved technology. - **E46 (2000–2006)** : Retention of the 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, increased to 343 hp, with the introduction of advanced electronic systems for better driving dynamics. - **E90 (2007–2013)** : Introduction of a 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 420 hp, with improvements in transmission and chassis. - **F80 (2014–2018)** : Return to a 3.0-liter six-cylinder inline engine with two turbochargers, producing 431 hp, and the addition of advanced braking technologies. - **G80 (2020–present)** : Return of the M3 in Touring version, alongside the sedan variant, with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder inline engine with two turbochargers, producing 473 hp, and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Each generation of the BMW M3 has contributed to strengthening the brand's reputation for performance and innovation. (bmw-m.com)

Key differences

The main differences between the generations of the BMW M3 lie in the engines, technologies, and performance. - **Engines** : Transition from a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine to a 3.0-liter six-cylinder inline engine, then to a 4.0-liter V8 engine, and back to a 3.0-liter six-cylinder inline engine with two turbochargers. - **Technologies** : Introduction of the sequential SMG transmission, stability control, active rear differential, dual-clutch transmission DKG, ceramic brakes, and the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. - **Performance** : Continuous improvement in power, torque, and acceleration capabilities, with reduced 0 to 100 km/h times and increased top speeds. These evolutions have allowed the BMW M3 to remain at the forefront of automotive performance over the decades. (bmw-m.com)

Photo recognition

To identify a BMW M3, look for the following distinctive features: - **Badges and logos** : Presence of the "M" logo on the front grille, front fenders, and rear trunk. - **Exterior design** : Side skirts, specific front and rear bumpers, and sport exhaust outlets. - **Wheels** : M-specific alloy wheels, often larger in size. - **Suspension** : Lowered ride height and wider tracks for improved stability. - **Interior** : Sport seats, M steering wheel, and specific interior trims. These features help distinguish the BMW M3 from other 3 Series models. (bmw-m.com)

Important versions

Notable versions of the BMW M3 include: - **M3 E30 Sport Evolution** : Enhanced version of the first generation, produced in limited edition. - **M3 E36 Lightweight** : Lightweight version of the E36 M3, produced in limited numbers for racing. - **M3 E92 Lime Rock Edition** : Special edition of the E92 M3, produced in limited numbers. These versions are distinguished by their unique features and rarity. (bmw-m.com)

M3

Variants by year

2022

2020

2014

2008

2007

2000

1994

1992

1987

1986