The development of the BMW M3. How did this model change over time?

The era of the iconic BMW M3 started in the ’80s, right after the famous E30 was introduced. This technologically advanced and attractive brand-new sports car was established in order to maintain the success of the BMW M cars segment, which was an excellent example of how high-performance vehicles can colourize the whole market. The advantages of the new BMW E30 M3 were related not only to a modified and charming design but also to better performance capabilities, which were created with the help of specially dedicated bmw parts. Just like every other M3 model, the E30 also had modified bumpers and other car elements. It helped to separate the M3 from the basic 3 series BMW car. With the power of 142 hp, the very first M3 was able to reach the speed of 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. Today, the new M3 can reach the same speed way faster – in 4.2 seconds.

After realizing that M3 models could potentially have a successful future, the manufacturer decided to continue its production with the brand-new E36 body in 1992. This improvement rapidly changed the perspective and realization of the new M3 design. The design modernization process consisted of a few major aspects, like much wider and continuous headlights, wider front grills, and a refined rear side. The performance-responsible car side was also improved dramatically. Four-cylinder petrol 192 hp engines were replaced with six-cylinder 282 hp powered petrol engines. With more power and speed, E36 became a true legend among BMW enthusiasts.

Modernization of the M3

BMW stepped into the new century with a completely renewed E46 M3, which was introduced in 2001. A less angular body ensured more aerodynamic features, helping the car to achieve better results in various driving conditions. Also, a complete rebuild of the car’s interior came along with the E46 M3. The front panel became less strict, and it was a large step toward the changing perception of a modern car.

The perfect balance between power and performance was established in 2007 with the debut of the E90/E92/E93 M3. These models were quite different because for the first time the manufacturer gave an opportunity for people to choose between different body types and different designs at the same time. The E90 M3 was a unique car model because at that time it was the only BMW 3 series sedan with the front headlights of a Coupe. While the rear sides of E90, and E92/E93 were decorated with differently shaped parts, the manufacturer managed to maintain the same style.

New style – the same spirit

In 2014 the new generation of the BMW F80 M3 was presented. This model marked a new beginning, which was built from scratch once again. The entirely distinct design of the car made the M3 model shine brighter than ever before. New technologies, incredible performance features, and tremendous power revived the demand for aggressiveness. Like before, BMW also offered this compact sports car in a body type of Coupe, but this time it was called the M4 F82. Since then, the M4 became an equally desirable car, just like the M3.

BMW F80 M3 production continued until 2018 and after that BMW took a 2-year break. In 2020 the latest BMW G80 M3 was built. This model was assessed in two ways. Some liked the new generation design. Meanwhile, others were sceptical of the oversized front grilles. Regardless of that, soon the G80 M3 finally found its place, and the manufacturer widened the assortment by introducing the G81 M3 Touring. It was the first time in history that the M3 was available as a wagon.