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ONE of these things is not like the other. The F80 M3 30 Jahre is a radically different car to its predecessors, and not just because it’s the only one present with four doors.
Oddly enough for a car that started life as a coupe, if you want an M3 in 2017 you have to buy a sedan, otherwise you’ll have a BMW M4. However, even putting aside badge quirks, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest the F80 is the black sheep of the M3 family.
It was a controversial move, however tightening emissions regulations meant that forced induction was the only way to achieve the desired level of performance. That said, M Division may have over-delivered.
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While the S55 3.0-litre six is still happy to spin to 7500rpm, there is no longer any need to chase the redline to make swift progress – 5500rpm is often more than enough.
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Combine this behaviour with the massive increase in torque and the latest M3 marks itself out as the fiery, temperamental child in an otherwise friendly, fun-loving family.
The steering has three modes, none of which feel completely right, and the damping can struggle to keep the wheels in contact with the road over bumps.
It’s a real challenge and massively exhilarating when you get it right, but it can be hard work. And in the wet? Get ready for sweaty palms, an elevated heart rate and fourth-gear wheelspin. In terms of bloodline, the BMW M2 is arguably closer to the M3s of old in both concept and ethos.
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On the flip side, its personality does get under your skin. The Competition upgrades have tamed some of the standard car’s wilder excesses and the F80’s bodybuilder-like bulges and creases make its predecessors look weedy and undernourished, particularly the E92.
Just 500 M3 ‘30 Jahre’ models will be offered worldwide, however the good news is if you like the look of it it’s mechanically identical to the M3 Competition.
The hardcore M4 GTS proves M hasn’t forgotten how to push the boundaries (nor charge enormous pricetags!) while the forthcoming M4 CS could prove to be the best of the bunch.
