The M3 is BMW’s high-performance version of the 3-Series, offered in coupe, convertible and sedan versions. The M3 began as a limited-edition model designed to meet minimum production requirements for touring car racing in Europe and Asia. The M3 arrived in the U.S. in the late '80s and was sold through the 1991 model year as a high-performance 2-door coupe. The M3 returned as a coupe for the 1995 model year, and in 1997 an M3 sedan was added. The M3 convertible completed the M3 lineup in 1998 and the sedan was dropped for 1999. The third-generation M3 was offered as a coupe and convertible from 2001-2006. Completely redesigned for 2008, the current M3 is powered for the first time by a V8 engine. Even more aggressive than its predecessor, the M3 includes a power dome in the middle of the aluminum hood, a rear diffuser, and gills in the front fenders that include the blue/purple/red M3 logo.
For 2011 BMW M3 offers a new Competition Package which reduces ride height by 10 mm, includes 19-inch wheels with a wider offset, adds standard Electronic Damping Control with enhanced programming and raises the programming threshold for the M Dynamic Mode.