When BMW introduced the M3 under the E30 lineup, the goal was to be in compliance with Group A Touring rules and other requirements. That led to about 5,000 cars being built in this lineup, from March 1986 to June 1991.
The first M3 vehicles were typically couples, although a few convertibles were part of the lineup.
Those initial cars were named to several “Best Of” lists, including Automobile Magazine calling it one of the five best driving cars of all time.
It is not unusual for the E30 M3 models from the first generation to fetch a higher price than the latest models at the dealership. What is the reliability and drivability of this car?
Reliability and Drivability of a Supercharged M3
The BMW M3 is the high-performance version of the Three Series developed by the automaker’s in-house motorsport division. The initial body was coupe-style, but a convertible was quickly added. Each BMW 3 Series has had an M3 option since 1986.
Although the BMW M3 took three years off, it has been a consistent force in the automotive industry for those who love comfort and speed.
The automaker kept it in production from 1986 until 2018. It returned for the 2021 model year and continues to be offered.
BMW stopped making the M3 in 2018 because of several changes that WLTP emissions regulations required.
WLTP stands for “World Harmonized Light-duty Vehicles Test Procedure.” It is an effort to achieve lower carbon dioxide targets while ensuring the performance standards of each vehicle remain consistent.
The current version of the M3 uses the S58 engine, a turbo straight-six with an optional xDrive AWD feature.
It’s the first time that BMW provided something other than a rear-wheel-drive option. The 2021 version includes a Touring model.
As an extra bonus, all M performance parts can be fitted to every M3 model. That includes the carbon fiber side skirts, exhaust system, diffuser, and rear ground effects.
How Well Does the BMW M3 Drive?
The BMW M3 is a comfortable car. Although the fuel economy could be a little better, it’s still superior to competitive models, including the Corvette.
I like how the M3 sits low to the ground. You have excellent traction for the corners, with the engine roaring to life when accelerating out.
The wheel is responsive and predictable. Newer models come with gesture controls for some commands, but I disabled that option. Spinning a finger in front of the touchscreen to change the volume feels silly and distracting.
I highly recommend investing in the M Drive Professional option. You receive ten-stage traction control that scores your drifts and even sends lap timers to a companion app on your smartphone.
It takes a little time to break in the seals and gaskets with the M3. You don’t want to have any excessive speed or RPMs during the first 1,500 miles or so.
Once you get past the 3,000-mile mark, you’re ready to test the full parameters that the vehicle offers.
There’s plenty to enjoy, especially with the manual transmission. The automatic does a decent job, but I prefer having control over the entire driving process.
The only issue that I’ve encountered is steering sensitivity. If you’re not used to driving a vehicle like the M3, it’s easy to overcorrect when getting behind the wheel for the first few times.
BMW M3 Warranty Details
If you invest in a BMW M3 today, you’ll receive the following warranty options. Additional upgrades may be available at your local dealership or from a third-party provider.
- 12 years and unlimited miles for corrosion protection.
- 4 years or 50,000 miles for bumper-to-bumper coverage and the powertrain.
- 4 years with unlimited miles for roadside assistance.
- 3 years or 36,000 miles for regularly scheduled maintenance.
It’s comprehensive coverage for a vehicle that has a governor-limited top seed of 156 MPH.
Oil Consumption with the BMW M3
When driving a high-performance vehicle, there should be an expectation that it will consume more fuel and oil to get you between point A and point B.
What I’ve noticed while behind the wheel of my M3 is above-average oil consumption.
BMW uses a crankcase ventilation system that releases pressure by introducing it back to the intake system. By solving that problem, they’re creating another.
When the pressure goes down, carbon particles and oil interfere with the airflow, interfering with its performance. As time passes, buildup on the intake valves must be addressed to prevent a prolonged stop in the shop.
I highly recommend installing a baffled oil catch can to intercept the oil that comes from the crankcase ventilation system to prevent it from reaching the intake.
This investment keeps the ports, valves, and intakes clean while allowing the engine to relieve the pressure that builds.
The cleanliness you’ll experience after isn’t noticeable when you’re behind the wheel, but you won’t see a slow drop-off in performance either.
Another issue to consider with an M3 as it gets older is the reputation for BMW engines to leak oil. This problem occurs most often from the valve cover, but it could appear anywhere.
It helps to look for driveway stains, buildup around the covers, and oil levels. If you notice that you’re short more than once per month, this issue needs to be addressed.
Although I haven’t had a problem with my M3, I’ve encountered similar issues with past vehicles.
I like to use LIQUI MOLY to find those problematic leaks. This product uses an ultraviolet dye additive that makes it easier to spot potential problems.
When a puddle appears underneath your BMW, it’s likely that a new valve cover gasket is required.
Should that service be necessary, it’s usually a good idea to replace your spark plugs and tubes, along with the coils, to ensure you receive the best results.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the BMW M3?
The BMW M3 is one of those legendary models for driving enthusiasts that everyone wants to try. When it was first introduced in 1986, the goal was to create a sports-style sedan that offered power while being suitable for the family.
Over the next three decades, the M3 continued its status as a marketplace leader. It used a business-friendly design that attracted commuters while delivering impressive power and torque.
The 2017 BMW M3 is an excellent example of what is possible with this design. With the Competition package, drivers receive 444 HP and 406 foot-pounds of torque.
If you’re thinking about investing in a BMW M3, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages to consider.
| List of the Pros of the BMW M3 | List of the Cons of the BMW M3 |
| The BMW M3 is a sports sedan that offers performance without compromise. Even though it weighs 3,600 pounds, the four-door design provides enough space for luggage or extra passengers. | Other models are available, especially for drivers who don’t want a full-sized sedan or the cost of additional luxury features. Stepping down to a fully-loaded M2 saves about 15%. |
| This vehicle comes with plenty of performance. The 3.0L twin-turbo inline engine delivers an impressive result. If you choose the six-speed manual transmission, it goes from 0 to 60 MPH in about four seconds. That’s faster than the Porsche Panamera. | Although the base price of the M3 is a relative bargain, the different upgrades that maximize this vehicle’s performance add up quickly. Between the Competition Package, Executive setup, and modern safety features, the MSRP goes up by about $10,000. |
| You’re getting a combination sports car and family vehicle for about half the price of what you’d pay another luxury brand for similar results. The interior and handling are excellent, even if you opt for the base M3. | Ceramic brakes are helpful when stopping quickly, but they also create a unique squeal even when it isn’t time to have them changed. The sound can get annoying on long drives. |
| The investment in the Competition package offers a shadow trim, more horsepower, and 20-inch forged wheels and rims. This optional package breathes even more life into the M3 for drivers that love to experiment with speed and handling. | The hoses that support the power steering system tend to leak. It’s not unusual to have multiple lines requiring repair simultaneously. This issue is something that drivers need to focus on when getting behind the wheel of an M3. |
| Several luxury features are available for this BMW model, including Merino leather, ceramic brakes, and high-end accessories. You can quickly change the car’s stability, throttle, steering, or damping within the settings. | Although the M3 is a fast and stable car, it also delivers a noisy differential. You can hear rubbing noises when making a tight turn. The newer models solve this issue with BMW-specific oil, but the older ones might require a trip to the shop. |
| The iDrive system provides extra support as part of a minimalist dashboard. Upgrading to the Executive package offers wireless charging, Wi-Fi access, and other popular modern features. | Fuel pump failures are relatively common in pre-2006 BMW M3 vehicles. The only way to rectify this situation is to replace the malfunctioning component. |
| Acceleration from the M3 occurs with minimal lag. The twin-turbo design delivers an excellent kick while handling predictably. | The idle control valve tends to act up after putting some miles onto the vehicle. If it fails, the check engine light appears with some rough idling and error messages. |
A Final Thought on the Reliability and Drivability of the M3
The reliability and drivability of the BMW M3 is consistent across all generations. Although oil usage issues and ongoing leaks can be of concern, those issues are quickly rectified with proactive maintenance. In return, drivers receive a fast and responsive vehicle that loves to hug tight corners.
The BMW M3 is a dream car. It delivers the power and performance of an elite luxury brand while staying within the price range of a commuter sports sedan.
Drivers will find a combination of features and upgrades that work for their needs, but you can’t go wrong with the base model if you prefer having only the essentials.
Some of the older M3 models are approaching collectability. Although the prices are higher than the current model, the showability of the vehicle is outstanding.
The design, whether from the 1980s or today, is something that brings out compliments wherever you go.
I love driving my M3 up mountain roads to test the drivability and power. When you can hug tight turns while seeing beautiful sights, there isn’t a better feeling in the world!
I highly recommend this BMW to anyone who is looking to add to or upgrade their current driving experience.