Car Reviews: 2004 BMW M3

Throughout the years, we have always looked towards certain car companies when we wish to represent certain ideas. When we wish for reliability and long life, we may look towards companies such as Honda, which have always been known to provide that type of vehicle. Searching for a rugged and iconic SUV leads us to the Jeep brand of vehicles. However, when we think of performance and style, there is only brand of car that comes to the mind of most, followed by one particularly famous model. That brand of vehicle is BMW, and the cars that have come to redefine performance and engineering are known as the M series. Certainly, the most iconic, and generally most attainable of this series is known as the M3.

From the moment that one looks at the M3, it becomes apparent that both performance and style are main concerns. The look of the coupe is simply phenomenal. The rounded BMW front takes the classic grill to an entirely new level. The low, lean look of the car is enough to inspire envious second looks and stares of admiration and respect. The light ground effects kit that comes from the factory really helps to improve the sporty look of the car. From the aggressive but refined style of the front end, to the expertly smoothed and molded sides and doors, to the slightly angled back end, nearly everything about the outside image of the 2004 M3 is enough to create the impression that this vehicle really is something special, and is definitely deserving of the M title.

This impression is only continued when one steps inside of the car. Luxurious and comfortable leather covers the seats and the dashboard, and the metal of the shifter complements the rest of the car perfectly. The equipped Navigation system looks and works great, and the steering wheel is equally comfortable to wrap your hands around. While there may not be a whole lot of room in the back of the car, transporting a family is not the intended goal of the M3, and there is plenty of room to fit two adults comfortably, provided they aren't too tall. Sitting in the M3 just feels great, there is plenty of visibility with the road and all around the car. The low, wide stance of the vehicle inspires driving confidence and enjoyment, and although some may object to the amount of plastic covering some interior surfaces, the interior of the 2004 M3 really is top notch, and is sure to become the favorite seat of any driver.

However, while the interior and exterior of the M3 are top notch, the thing that really sets it apart from other vehicles is the experience that comes with actually driving it. The 3.2 liter, 24 valve, six cylinder engine makes roughly 340 horse power, enough to drive the car from 0 to 60 in about five seconds. Running just a hair over 13 seconds in the quarter mile. While the flat out figures are impressive, the M3 also handles like a dream car. There seems to be no corner that the vehicle cannot master, no straightaway that cannot be conquered, no road that can stand equal to the superior performance of the BMW M3. The vehicle is available with several different options, ranging from convertible to coupe, and equipped with either a six speed manual or the new SMG II (think slapstick) transmission, which allows drivers to shift in manual mode with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. The M3 is a true performance vehicle, and yet it never feels uncontrollable or rides rough. The car is exceedingly quiet, perhaps too quiet, during normal driving, and if one is not pushing it to it's limits, the excellent quality of ride alone is enough to warrant the price of admission. The sound system is excellent, and navigation system which comes stock is absolutely great. However, those looking for a car which is sensible on gas are going to be very disappointed. The M3 averages about 12 miles to a gallon, and although it may not be the worse thing in the world, it is definitely something to consider before making the purchase.

Even though some may not find the M3 to be worth it's high price, there is no reason not to at least consider the car during your next search for a stylish, performance-oriented vehicle. The 2004 BMW M3 does not disappoint on any front, and it may very well be one of the best sports coupes ever produced.