QUICK FACTS
What year is an E92 M3?
The fourth generation E92 M3 Coupe was produced from 2008 to 2013 in the US. Alongside the E90 sedan and E93 convertible, the E92 coupe remains a sought-after model. Approximately 15,799 coupes were manufactured for the US market. A facelift (LCI – Life Cycle Impulse) in 2011 brought updated taillights and the desirable Competition Package (ZCP).
Why is the E92 M3 so special?
The E92 M3 holds a unique place in BMW M history. It is celebrated as the last naturally aspirated M3, preceding the turbocharged era that began with the F82 M4. This also marks it as BMW’s final naturally aspirated model overall. Furthermore, it retained hydraulic steering and was available without iDrive, appealing to purists. Its legendary status is largely due to its high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 engine.
Is the E92 M3 a V-8?
Yes, the E92 M3 is powered by BMW’s iconic S65 V8 engine. This engine delivers 414 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a breathtaking 8,400 RPM redline. It is the only V8 engine ever fitted to an M3, and exclusively used in the E92 M3.
Is the E92 M3 reliable?
While generally reliable, the E92 M3’s S65 V8 engine has a known weakness: rod bearing failure. Prospective buyers should ensure the rod bearings have been replaced. Throttle actuators are another common failure point. Beyond these issues, the E92 M3 is considered generally reliable, with many owners reporting positive experiences.
OVERVIEW: The BMW E92 M3 – A Look Back
The BMW E92 M3 Coupe. For many BMW enthusiasts, this car represents a sweet spot, a bridge between the analog purity of older M cars and the technological advancements of modern performance vehicles. In a world increasingly dominated by turbocharged engines and electric steering, the E92 M3 stands as a testament to a different era. An era where a naturally aspirated V8, hydraulic steering, and a high-revving spirit were paramount.
When the E92 M3 debuted, it marked a significant shift. It was larger and heavier than its predecessor, the E46 M3. The automotive world took notice of the increased weight, tipping the scales at around 3,600 pounds. However, in today’s context where performance cars often exceed 4,000 pounds, this weight seems almost modest.
The most significant change was under the hood – the introduction of a V8 engine. BMW opted for a V8 to compete with rivals from Audi and Lexus, moving away from the inline-six tradition. This new S65 V8 was a high-revving masterpiece, though it produced less low-end torque compared to its turbocharged counterparts. While some argued that the lower torque made it less accessible in daily driving, the thrill of chasing the 8,400 RPM redline was undeniable.
Stylistically, the E92 M3 has aged gracefully. Many argue it’s a more visually appealing design than the subsequent F80/F82 generation. Its classic coupe proportions, subtle aggression, and iconic M design cues make it instantly recognizable and desirable. However, it’s not without its compromises, as we’ll explore further.
PERFORMANCE: 7/10 – Still a Performer, But Times Have Changed
Back in 2010, the E92 M3 felt genuinely fast and exciting. Today, while still capable, its performance feels more “varsity jacket” than “cutting edge.” It’s a reminder of a different time, when 400+ horsepower was considered exceptional.
Engine: The S65 V8 – A High-Revving Gem
The heart of the E92 M3 is undoubtedly its S65 V8 engine. While some argue it’s not as torquey as modern turbocharged engines, it remains a remarkable powerplant and arguably one of the best engines BMW M has ever produced. Its power delivery is linear and responsive, rewarding drivers who explore the upper reaches of the rev range.
With 295 lb-ft of torque, the E92 M3 doesn’t offer the immediate shove of modern turbocharged cars. Even a current BMW 430i boasts similar torque figures. However, the 414 horsepower and stratospheric 8,400 RPM redline provide a unique and exhilarating driving experience. The E92 M3 is quick, achieving 0-60 mph in around 3.9 seconds with the DCT transmission.
The sound of the S65 V8 is another key element of its appeal. While the stock exhaust is somewhat muted, an aftermarket exhaust, like the Borla ATAK featured on this test car, truly unleashes the engine’s voice. Unlike modern M cars with artificial pops and burbles, the S65 offers a genuine, naturally aspirated soundtrack.
For those seeking even more performance, supercharging the S65 is a popular option. A supercharger kit can address the perceived torque deficit and elevate the E92 M3’s performance to another level while preserving its inherent character.
Transmission: DCT or Manual – A Matter of Preference
The E92 M3 was offered with both a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). While the manual provides a traditional driving experience, it’s noted to have a somewhat rubbery and notchy feel, particularly with the long shifter. A popular modification is to swap in a shorter shifter from an F10 M5 for improved feel.
However, the DCT is arguably the better choice for maximizing the S65 V8’s potential. The DCT offers lightning-fast shifts and allows for uninterrupted power delivery, perfectly complementing the engine’s high-revving nature. It enhances the car’s performance and provides a more engaging driving experience overall. The clutch in the manual version is also noted to engage quite low, requiring a full press.
Steering and Chassis: Hydraulic Feedback, But Not Class-Leading
The E92 M3 is the last M3 to feature hydraulic power steering, a feature highly valued by enthusiasts for its superior feedback compared to modern electric systems. While it offers better feel than newer BMW M models, like the M8, it’s considered merely average when judged against its contemporaries. Cars like the Infiniti G37 offered a more engaging steering feel, and the E46 M3 set an even higher benchmark.
The chassis is also softer than some might expect from an M car. It exhibits body roll in corners and can feel less composed over bumps compared to more track-focused performance cars. However, this softer setup also makes the E92 M3 more forgiving at the limit, making it a potentially good starting point for drivers new to track days. It lacks the sudden oversteer tendencies of some more aggressive cars.
The test car is a 2010 model without the Competition Package (ZCP), which included firmer damping, a 10mm lower ride height, and revised EDC (Electronic Damper Control) mapping. Interestingly, the author prefers the non-ZCP car, finding the ride quality more compliant without sacrificing too much performance. While aftermarket suspension upgrades can further improve handling, the factory setup is deemed “not M enough” for some.
Brakes: A Known Weak Point
The braking system is arguably the weakest aspect of the E92 M3’s performance. The brakes are prone to fading under hard use, the pedal feel is somewhat soft, and the cross-drilled rotors and single-piston front calipers are considered underwhelming for a performance car.
While modern cars sometimes feature excessive piston counts in their brake calipers, a four-piston system on the E92 M3 would have been a significant improvement. More pistons generally provide more even brake pressure and better stopping power. For spirited driving or track use, upgrading the brakes, perhaps with components from an F80 M3, is a recommended modification.
Overall, the E92 M3’s performance is still enjoyable but shows its age compared to modern sports cars. It’s a car that blends old-school charm with modern capability, but requires some modifications to reach its full potential.
LIFESTYLE SCORE: 8/10 – Practical Coupe with Classic Appeal
Despite being a performance coupe, the E92 M3 is surprisingly practical for daily use. The rear seats are genuinely usable for adults, unlike some more cramped coupes. The trunk space is also reasonable, capable of accommodating everyday items and even larger objects. Its shape is more accommodating than later M4 Coupes with their more aggressively sloping rooflines. While larger than the E46 M3, the increased size translates to tangible gains in usability.
However, the front seats are a point of contention. While they are comfortable enough for everyday driving, they lack sufficient lateral support for spirited driving. The seating position is also criticized for being too high, making the driver feel perched on top of the car rather than nestled within it. Compared to aggressive carbon bucket seats, these are at the opposite end of the spectrum, prioritizing comfort over performance.
One practical advantage of the E92 generation is the use of gas struts for the trunk lid, as opposed to hinges in later F-generation models. This design maximizes cargo space by avoiding intrusive hinges.
FUEL ECONOMY: 8/10 – Surprisingly Reasonable for a V8
Despite its V8 engine, the E92 M3’s fuel economy is surprisingly reasonable, especially when cruising. While aggressive driving will certainly impact fuel consumption, the E92 M3 can achieve around 18 MPG in mixed driving conditions. This is comparable to modern turbocharged M cars like the G8X M3. This fuel efficiency challenges the notion that naturally aspirated engines are inherently less efficient than turbocharged ones in real-world driving.
The fuel tank capacity is 16 gallons, which is on the smaller side, likely inherited from the standard 3-Series Coupe. This smaller tank can lead to a shorter range, and the fuel gauge needle can drop quickly once it reaches the lower end.
INTERIOR & TECHNOLOGY: 7/10 – A Blend of Old and New
The E92 M3’s interior reflects its era, blending some modern technology with classic BMW design elements. The interior features a mix of screens and the last vestiges of BMW’s orange pixel displays. While somewhat austere by modern standards, the interior is functional and has a certain retro charm.
Features and Comfort: Relevant for its Time
One outdated feature is the key slot in the dashboard to start the car, a feature that feels somewhat archaic today. The E92 M3 was the last M3 generation offered without a standard central infotainment screen. Cars equipped with iDrive featured the “double hump” dashboard design, while those without had a cleaner “single hump” dash.
The iDrive system itself was updated in 2009, with later models featuring a newer operating system and a revised control knob. Early 2008 models have an older iDrive system with less refined graphics and a larger silver control knob, reminiscent of the E65 7 Series. The test car shown here cleverly integrates a modern touchscreen aftermarket unit, replacing the original stereo and relocating the HVAC controls for a more contemporary infotainment experience.
Other interior highlights include large, clear analog gauges for the tachometer and speedometer, soft Novillo leather upholstery, a well-shaped steering wheel, and even features like automatic seatbelt extenders. For its time, the E92 M3 was a well-equipped car. The test car is also equipped with a sunroof, a feature that was also available on the author’s personal E92 M3.
EXTERIOR & STYLE: Beauty that Has Endured
The E92 M3’s styling has aged exceptionally well. Whether finished in Black Sapphire Metallic, Interlagos Blue, or even more polarizing colors, it remains a visually striking car. While the F8x generation might be considered more aggressive, the E92 M3’s design is arguably more timeless and elegant.
Some elements, like the halogen angel eye headlights on pre-LCI models and the incandescent taillights, can betray its age. However, the overall design has held up remarkably well. Signature M design cues, such as the double-arm side mirrors, the optional carbon fiber roof, and the prominent power dome on the hood, contribute to its sporty and purposeful appearance.
Compared to today’s often overly aggressive and angular performance cars, the E92 M3 presents a cleaner and more understated aesthetic. While it’s subtly differentiated from a standard 3-Series Coupe, its widened fenders, stance, and M-specific details clearly signal its performance intentions.
OTHERS TO CONSIDER: Competitors in the Sport Coupe Market
- Audi RS5: A direct competitor offering a high-revving V8 and quattro all-wheel drive.
- Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe (W204): Another V8-powered German coupe, known for its мощный engine and aggressive character.
- Lexus IS F: A Japanese alternative with a naturally aspirated V8, offering renowned Lexus reliability.
- Infiniti G37 Coupe: A more affordable option with a potent V6 engine and engaging driving dynamics.
FINAL THOUGHTS: The E92 M3 – V8 Hype or Deserved Classic?
The BMW E92 M3 often becomes the center of discussions revolving around its V8 engine. While the S65 V8 is undoubtedly a highlight, it’s important to consider the car as a whole. In today’s performance landscape, the S65, while still good, is no longer exceptional in terms of outright power and torque compared to newer V8s or high-output turbocharged engines. Examples like the Corvette Z06 and Ford Mustang GT350 demonstrate the potential of modern high-revving V8s.
While top-condition, limited edition E92 M3s like the Lime Rock Edition can command high prices, a standard E92 M3 in good condition is more realistically priced in the $30,000-$40,000 range. At this price point, it represents a compelling value proposition for a performance coupe with a naturally aspirated V8 and a rewarding driving experience.
To truly unlock the E92 M3’s full potential, some modifications are recommended. Upgrading the suspension and brakes, and even considering supercharging the engine, can elevate the driving experience and address some of its inherent limitations. In many ways, the E92 M3 is a car that benefits from personalization and refinement.
Despite its imperfections and areas for improvement, the E92 M3 remains a highly desirable and enjoyable modern classic. It captures a unique moment in BMW M history, blending analog feel with modern performance in a way that few cars can match. And for many enthusiasts, it still holds the crown as the “best modern M3.”
2010 BMW M3 Coupe SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle Type: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, two-door, four-passenger coupe.
PRICE
Base: $58,400 (2010)
POWERTRAIN
4.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8
414 hp @ 8,300 RPM
295 lb-ft @ 3,900 RPM
Six-speed manual transmission (DCT optional)
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 108.7 in
Length: 181.8 in
Width: 71 in
Height: 55.8 in
Curb Weight: 3,704 lbs
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 16 / 14 / 20 MPG
