BMW M3 Engine: Pushing the Limits

Lauren H
Mar 4, 2021

Gray 2018 BMW M3 In Motion

Are you shopping for a BMW? If so, don’t forget to get the details about the engine first. To make it easier, we have compiled all the details about the BMW M3 and its engine for you all in one place. So sit back, relax, and keep reading.

What are the 2021 BMW M3 engine specs?

This engine is a 3.0L twin-turbo I6 with 473 horsepower and 406 pounds of torque in the base models of the M3 and M4. The old M3 had the S55 engine. The 2021 model will come with the new S58 engine. These vehicles will arrive at dealerships in March 2021.

There is a lot more information about the BMW M3 and its engine, so we are going to detail all that for you. But first, let’s go over a bit of BMW M3 history. Then we will cover the most frequently asked questions about the BMW M3 and its engine.

Looking Back at the BMW M3

This vehicle is BMW’s version of a high-performance car. The M3 has been produced for each generation of three series dating back to the M30 M3 in 1986. The first M3 had a coupe body style.

The convertible version was added not long after that.

The M3 E36 sedans were manufactured between 1994-1999 and the E90s were manufactured between 2008 and 2012. But, since 2014, all M3’s have been designed with a sedan body style. This is because the coupe and convertible models were rebranded as the M4 Series.

Upgrades to the M3 series over the years have included the engine, brakes, handling, aerodynamics, various interior upgrades, and lighter-weight materials.

From 2014 to 2018 the M3 was an F80 which was the first turbocharged BMW M3 model. And in 2016, a Competition Package was made available in the M3 and M4 models. This package increased power, changed up the electronic differential, and the electronic stability control.

It also upgraded the suspension and the front seats. And again, the M3 was the sedan version and the M4 included the coupe and convertible versions.

Production of the G80 was suddenly halted in October 2018 due to the many changes that were required in order to meet the various emissions regulations. But, interestingly enough, the M4 models remained in production. And, the good news is that this vehicle will reenter the market again in 2021.

People Also Ask

What is the Horsepower for the 2021 BMW M3?

This vehicle has a 3.0 Liter twin-turbo I6 engine, 473 horsepower, and 406 pounds of torque in the base models of the M3 and M4. The Competition models have 503 horsepower and 479 pounds of torque.

Which is Faster the BMW M3 or the M4?

The M3 and M4 both have the same engine and drivetrain. And, depending on the transmission, the M4 is the faster vehicle simply because of that car’s lighter weight.

Does the BMW M3 Have a Turbo Engine?

Yes, the M3 and M4 both have a 3.0L twin-turbo I6 engine. This car also has 473 horsepower and 406 pounds of torque. And each M3 also comes with adjustable brake pedals and adaptive dampers.

How Many Miles Will a BMW M3 Get in Its Lifetime?

Using the 2019 M3 as an example, the average lifespan of this vehicle ranges between 150,000 to 200,000 miles.

Where Can I Get a Vehicle History Report?

Click here now for a free Vehicle History report for any vehicle(s).

This report will give you all the available information about the vehicle you entered at no charge to you. Having a vehicle’s history could help protect you from buying a vehicle with common issues or vehicle specific problems. This is an instant report that doesn’t require a credit card or any obligation on your part. It is100% free of charge!

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Marc A on August 16, 2021
2011 M3 - Daily driver that fast changes to screaming delight
If you enjoy a real joy of a V8 engine without Turbo or Supercharger - this is a great choice. Daily driving is fun and the engine/tranny is almost mundane in the ECO setting - but hit the M button with all the correct settings and you are quickly reminded that this is a fabulous Canyon Carver or Track car... The car can be expensive to maintain if you compare it to your family SUV but when compared to other Exotics that match what this car does you might have to revise your view. This is a enjoyable screaming car that can be driven daily.
accountCircle Lee C on August 15, 2021
Enjoying my life-long 2010 BMW m3.
I have loved this car since the day I bought it - day one. It has the perfect amount of horsepower, luxury, reliability, longevity and ease of use. I have always enjoyed riding in, and driving, BMW vehicles even before I made this purchase. I plan on keeping this car until the value on starts to decline at a rate I am not comfortable with anymore. I hope that ends up being another 3+ years at bare minimum. After that, I would like to trade it in for another BMW.
accountCircle Bob J on June 3, 2021
2017 M3 has an amazing interior with beautiful design.
It is an extremely smooth ride, what you would expect from BMW. They always deliver really nice vehicles and the interiors amazingly crafted. The leather seats have held up really well and I haven't had any major issues with the interior. It is mechanically sound and is just a powerful as the day I left the lot. It is a beauty of a car and one of the nicest ones I own.
accountCircle Jocelyn R on September 2, 2021
Need for speed. You got it with the 2017 M3
I love my car. I have had it for over a year now without any issues. The car is very sporty and classy at the same time. I have a need for speed in this car definitely satisfy that craving. The car has three modes sport mode comfort mode and sport plus mode. This makes it very interesting because driving in the sport mode makes it faster than normal.
accountCircle Janis B on March 11, 2021
2010 m3 has lasted about 10 years!
My vehicle fits perfectly for my family and I has never showed much of a serious problem. I use it for travel, vacation, trip etc. And it still functions pretty well. I do not have to take it out much for service. I would not recommend to buy it but also will not say no. As they say, old is gold and I am not interested to replace it.
accountCircle Logan X on August 23, 2021
2010 m3 is not a great choice of vehicle.
I always wanted an m3, but I have had really significant problems with mine. I know it was probably abused by prior owners, but it is a complete lemon! I have had multiple problems. Sometimes it wouldn't even start. It has a fairly uncomfortable interior and the clutch is shot. I do not plan to keep this vehicle long.
accountCircle B D on March 10, 2021
2015 m3 is super strong, loud, fast, and stands out.
I love how my vehicle is a sedan so it is not cramped, and how it packs an extremely high horsepower above 300. It is color also looks really cool and stands out a lot since it is a yas marina blue BMW m3. It also has a twin turbo and a v6 which makes it super loud and fun to drive which I love a lot.
accountCircle Matthew F on August 17, 2021
2010 M3 - Basic cockpit, built to race. In the seat, the tools to drive at your hands.
The car is amazing, just as I knew in my heart it would be. The best I can say is 'ultimate driving machine' sums up BMW well. Then add an m to the series and bang! Pros; handling, acceleration and braking, power all of the time. Cons; tires go fast, fuel economy is mediocre, maintenance is expensive.
accountCircle Jackson M on June 11, 2021
2009 space grey BMW m3 awesome.
The car is low miles and so maintenance has been oil changes and tires mostly. It has been completely reliable. The two door coupe has larger turbos in it and it'll blow your socks off the tires grip well and brakes brake well. It is equipped with a sunroof and grey interior with space grey exterior.
accountCircle Sebastian M on September 14, 2021
2012 BMW M3. Good car for the maintenance?
Currently own a BMW m3. Great car. Have not had many issues. A fuel injector did get stuck when I first bought the car but that was fixed for $1200. The car apparently can have other issues such as throttle actuators going out. There's 2 of them and they're $1200 each. So keep a emergency fund.
accountCircle Tamia M on April 12, 2021
Love the speed of the 2010 M3, I say I like to drive with a purpose.
This car is amazing! Really no complaints, I have had it a little over a year now but it great! Drives smooth, good on gas and excellent speed. Nothing I would change and I am lucky to have it! I say to anyone looking to purchase a vehicle like mine, it’d be a nice fit for anyone really.
accountCircle Avery H on March 8, 2021
2012 m3 has a v8 engine, 6 - speed manual, comfy seats, perfect for long rides.
Perfect among roads, I haven't faced any problem throughout the years I have used it, it is comfortable, it's a full option car, it has a limited interior storage, it's good for driving on highways, easy for daily drives on a busy schedule, there's no perfect car but this one does it all.
accountCircle Eboni S on May 12, 2021
I enjoy the feel, the look and the way the 2010 M3 drives
It runs great just sounds loud when it is running. I like the look and feel however which feels consistent with what traveling. I also like the engine but as a rider I can feel it consistently as I am driving. I like the reliability and comfort features that are easy to access.
accountCircle Victor Z on August 10, 2021
The 2015 M3 is better than others on the market.
It is a great daily drive car. About 18 city / 20 highway. Fun car with comfort mode, sport, and sport plus. Lots of customization can be added and mods to make it feel truly personalized to your style. Great looking car compared to amg and Audi rs style cars.
accountCircle Kurt V on April 14, 2021
Luxurious slick 2017 M3!
Fast, smooth ride, safety features is a plus and the digital display of the heads up display is really great as well! Best performance sedan there is out there. If you are looking for a sports sedan that can fit 5 people comfortably. This is the one for you.
accountCircle Melan C on July 3, 2021
My 2015 m3 is one of the best cars I have ever had.
The performance of the m3 is great. With being able to seamlessly move between sports mode and comfort, the ride is always just perfect. The drive is as it should be; responsive, smooth, and reliable. I cannot say I have one day regretted getting the m3.
accountCircle Jonah D on March 7, 2021
2016 M3: Fast and smooth, pretty too.
Very comfortable and smooth drive. Computer integration is really cool and helpful, such as having different profiles for seat adjustment and such. Brakes are extremely responsive. Also its just plain beautiful.
accountCircle Duane P on June 5, 2021
2011 m3 has an amazing engine and has a great power band.
It has a classic sports car look. Large drive wheels in the rear. The engine is amazing. I wish it got better gas mileage and the electronics including the stereo could be updated.
accountCircle Quillan C on September 2, 2021
2013 BMW m3 has the nicest pur you will hear on the road!
My vehicle is very reliable and works well for my constantly moving lifestyle. It's perfect for everyday functionality and having fun when I'm not working.
accountCircle Monica S on July 13, 2021
2011 m3 is very high performance.
I love the style and how smooth the ride is. The performance is amazing. I do not like that it is a gas guzzler. It is also super expensive to maintain.
accountCircle Ethan N on April 15, 2021
2015 M3 has the best stereo system in most previous cars I have had before
I think that I chose the right vehicle for a person such as myself. It has the perfect amount of horsepower and fuel efficiency. I really like it.
accountCircle Kartheek G on October 1, 2021
2015 BMW M3 is a very nice vehicle with great features
This is a very good vehicle with very nice interior and exterior. This is a very good 6 cylinder engine and is affordable for me.
accountCircle Christopher Z on September 22, 2021
2009 M3 - Great value for money and even better smiles per gallon.
Enjoy this modern classic while you still can. They will not make them like this every again. Absolute hoot to drive.
accountCircle Aliya S on August 19, 2021
2012 m3 runs very smooth and is a dream come true!
I've had my BMW for almost three years now and every since I got it I haven't had any major problems.
accountCircle Robert D on June 18, 2021
The engine and its torque and horsepower specifications of the 2010 M3 are great.
I like the power and luxury. I wish the styling were more sporty and that the handling were better.
avatar Lauren H
Lauren H. has sold new and used cars, negotiated numerous car deals, has a thorough knowledge of the best and worst vehicles produced, and has spent the last 10-years as an automotive writer.
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