I still remember the thrill I felt when I first laid eyes on the 2021 BMW M3. The sleek lines, the aggressive stance, and that unmistakable presence—it was as if it had been crafted from my dreams. I had always been a fan of BMW’s M-series, but the M3 has always held a special place in my heart. I was driving a 2007 M3 E92, and while it was a phenomenal car in its own right, I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something truly magical about the latest iteration of this legendary model.
So, when I finally had the opportunity to test drive the 2021 BMW M3, it was an experience I won’t soon forget. The moment I turned the key and heard the engine roar to life, I felt a rush of adrenaline that only the M3 can provide. The new model came with a powerful 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine, producing 473 horsepower in the base version and an exhilarating 503 horsepower in the Competition model. The handling was sharp, the ride was smooth, and the technology—oh, the technology—was far beyond anything I had experienced before. With its advanced iDrive 7.0 system, the 2021 M3 offered features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch central display, and a whole suite of driver-assistance technologies. It was a glimpse into the future of driving, and it felt like a leap forward from my E92.
Yet, despite my enthusiasm, I couldn’t ignore the price tag. The 2021 BMW M3 comes with a premium price, and as much as I loved it, the cost was a significant consideration. That got me thinking—what if I could find a more budget-friendly alternative? What if I could experience the thrill of an M3 without the hefty price? That’s when I decided to investigate the cheapest E90 BMW M3 I could find.
I began my search online, scouring classified ads, forums, and auction sites for a decent E90 M3 at a reasonable price. The E90, the sedan version of the M3, was part of the fourth generation of the model and had its own charm. It was powered by the same 4.0-liter V8 engine as the E92 coupe, which meant it delivered a similar exhilarating driving experience. However, prices for these cars had dropped significantly, and it wasn’t long before I found an option that caught my eye—a 2008 E90 M3 with relatively high mileage but priced attractively.
The car was located about a two-hour drive from my home, so I decided to make the trip and see it for myself. When I arrived, I was greeted by the sight of the E90 M3 in a modest driveway. It didn’t have the same aggressive flair as the 2021 model, but there was a certain understated elegance about it. The owner, an enthusiastic BMW aficionado, was eager to show me around. He had meticulously maintained the car, and while it had its share of wear and tear, it was clear that this M3 had been loved.
We took the car for a test drive, and despite its age and mileage, it felt surprisingly spry. The V8 engine roared to life with a satisfying growl, and the handling was still sharp. The interior, while not as modern as the 2021 model, was well-appointed and offered the classic M3 driving experience. The seats were supportive, the steering was precise, and there was a certain rawness to the driving experience that you only get with an older model.
I couldn’t help but compare it to the 2021 M3. The newer model had advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a host of other modern conveniences. It felt like a car from another era in terms of technology. But as I drove the E90, I realized there was something incredibly special about its simplicity. It was a driver’s car in the purest sense—a machine that communicated directly with the driver without too many electronic distractions.
After the test drive, I was torn. The 2021 BMW M3 was a technological marvel and offered an unparalleled driving experience, but the E90 M3 had its own unique charm. It was a reminder of a time when driving was a bit more raw and unfiltered. It was also a fraction of the cost, which made it an attractive option if you were willing to embrace a bit of the old-school M magic.
In the end, I decided to purchase the E90 M3. It was a decision driven by both passion and practicality. While the 2021 model was undeniably impressive, the E90 offered a connection to the past and a driving experience that felt more intimate. Plus, the lower cost meant I could enjoy the thrill of an M3 without the financial strain.
Driving the E90 M3 has been a rewarding experience. It’s a car that requires a bit more attention and care, but it also provides a sense of satisfaction that comes from owning a classic piece of automotive history. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination.