Why The BMW E92 M3 Is A Flawed Car, But You Need To Buy One Anyway (Review)

So, ‪@adamivell‬ agreed to lend me his pride and joy, his E92 M3 for a review. It has been an age since I drove a standard M3 - my own car being a heavily modified track biased supercharged one. Just how different is it, and should I have just bought a standard car in the first place?
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/ jayemmoncars

[@TurninTrackOut]

Right after this model they really started throwing the 'M' badge on everything and lost it's prestige. When I was growing up the 'M' was one of the highest achievements as a car enthusiast.

[@chapman1991]

Same with amg and audis rs brand

[@512460]

And R for VW

[@leviathan5207]

@@512460 R never had respect. 32 had but not R.

[@TheFlyingClutchman]

@@leviathan5207 r just hasn't been around for very long but it is definitely respected for its value for money

[@tolga1cool]

Now we're at a point where you can make the lowest spec 3 series diesel look like a m racecar lmao

[@venom5809]

I feel like we need to sit down and have a chat about your shirts one of these days. 😂

[@yskr0102]

12:16

[@ahoneyman]

There's a certain nobility in being that tacky.

[@gregs8685]

I think it fits him (figuratively not literally).

[@t1rjb1]

I'd like to know what his wife was doin for a blouse that day ??

[@helloyouful]

Absolutely no chat required, they're great, only links in the description for purchase required haha.

[@robreeves9825]

I've owned one for over four years now and I definitely agree with a lot of your points. They are a bit compromised as standard but when fettled they can be totally transformed as you discovered with your E92 track car. Other than getting the rod bearings replaced, there's really not a lot that goes wrong on these. Other than maintenance, I've only spent about £1,500 max on things that have gone wrong over the years. Including the throttle actuators, faulty fan belts and a faulty thermostat. It's had loads of track days under its belt and things are going to need replacing on the horizon but I love my E90 and I can't see myself selling it anytime soon not when 997 GT3s and Exige Sport 380s cost X times more...

[@elwynll]

Does your statement still hold true? Im looking at purchasing a E9x M3 as well

[@simontist]

Any trouble with the EDC dampers?

[@n0cturnalgamer]

in case anyone was wondering, the value of these is going up like a rocket. I bought a 30k milage comp pack for £21,000 and just sold it for £27,000 6 months later.

[@Matthew-ll9ke]

Everything was going up like a rocket over that period

[@OKeefeist]

@@Matthew-ll9keyeah can pick one up for less now

[@m3lowiesvlog715]

Because of the high rev 8000RPM,NA V8 engine and manual,I bought it right away without doing a test drive at the dealership back in 2012,almost 8 years ownership without any issues,recently done the rod bearings and it’s bulletproof now!

[@DriftaBob44]

Just to chime in about your B7 RS4 vs E92 M3 comment, I've owned both simultaneously now for about 3 and a half years and they are top notch cars to own and drive. If someone put a gun to my head and made me decide which is the best, I'd have to say the RS4 is the better road car...but nothing fills me with as much joy as the M3 when it's trying best to kill me. Two true legends of the car world.

[@gregs8685]

I too owned both and would pick the RS4 any day. Better power band and torque, far better gearbox, better styling, better build quality and rarity. AWD makes it usable in all seasons. M3 is more tossable but that’s about it.

[@DriftaBob44]

@@gregs8685 @Greg S Yea I agree with the gearbox, it is like a bolt action rifle in the RS compared to the M3s agricultural slam it in jobbie. RS interior is also more special, i think it's all in the seats and that flat bottomed wheel. The e92 M3 has the RS beat on the looks, sound and fun factor though hands down.

[@mattbudesa6351]

​@@gregs8685Better build quality? That's a negative. I've driven both. M3 is more engaging and exciting car to drive. The AWD kills the excitement in the RS4.

[@SquadronLeadr]

Always welcome to drive my stock (apart from decat/remap) E90 for chassis comparison (18s, manual, no EDC). :)

[@augustortiz]

I have owned mine for 3 years now, and I absolutely love it, aside from the painfully bad gas consumption I really cant recommend this car enough.

[@dankaro8996]

Gas isn't that bad 😂

[@augustortiz]

@ballsworker97 its actually the small tank thats the issue, for example, my m3 gets 18-21mpg but the tank can be filled up with 30-35$ (Florida, USA gas is kind of cheap here, not sure where you live) meanwhile for comparison purposes, my lexus is200t fills up with 40$ and gets 24-28mpg. It is no doubt expensive to run as a daily because it just eats the gas tank up in 2-3 days max. Id say its not as bad as people make it seem but its definitely not for everyone.

[@augustortiz]

@@dankaro8996 its not that bad hahha, there are definitely worse cars.

[@augustortiz]

@ballsworker97 I would say the closest car I have been in that gets similar fuel efficiency to a E9X m3 would be a 370Z. My friends 370Z nismo got nearly identical figures (if not a bit worse)

[@dankaro8996]

@@augustortiz yeah lmao

[@willismoody970]

The EDC makes a world of a difference in my opinion.

[@Kcham444]

I got mine 2 weeks ago, I absolutely love it. Been in love with them for 4 years now. Exceeded all my expectations

[@ZaccheusMukahiwa]

There's few cars new and old that sound better than the E92 M3! I don't care that its not the fastest car on the roads these days. The driving experience behind the wheel of E92 M3 is hard to beat or replicate!

[@smak387]

Just got one last week. 2013 alpine white competition edition. Dream come true

[@ZaccheusMukahiwa]

@@smak387 Happy for you dude! Living the damn dream!

[@ZaccheusMukahiwa]

@@mislavkonjik2827 In my humble opinion it is a better and more enjoyable car to drive. Whether or not it’s better will be subjective to what you like also.

[@Freedom010967]

Great review as usual. I agree with your comment that how a car makes you feel is more important than just comparing cold statistics. Driving my E46 M3, 6 speed manual convertible, just makes me feel so alive & happy with the world, particularly when the roof is down, better able to hear that wonderful straight six engine through a Scorpion exhaust.

[@Faz-86]

You can feel the second you press the EDC incase anyone wondered

[@pt17171]

What I love about the older M3 cars is that they were more understated. With increasing cost the manufactures feel the need to outwardly differentiate the car by making it look more gareish.

[@joaomatosgraca1013]

To be fair, the EDC version totally kills your main gripe. I have it and (forgetting mpg) it's the perfect daily cruiser with a hidden demon inside.

[@davidd4531]

Nice timing. Just bought an LCI E90 manual yesterday. I personally prefer the shape of the E90, I think it has better proportions. Without a modified exhaust they are very quiet, so I think that and coilovers are a must. Can’t wait to put some miles on it!

[@elwynll]

Looking at one of these now. How are you finding it since then? Still own it?

[@davidvandord]

We've just bought a E93 M3 in the same color white with HMS exhaust a lovely summer vehicle

[@adamivell]

Thank you for the review mate! Glad you liked it :D

[@kbk75yt]

Owned a manual with EDC E92 M3, from new, fourteen years now and all I can say is - it’s a keeper! Love it!

[@mysteriousM8]

I really wanted a manual one I’m glad you are still enjoying it

[@Assimilator1]

Redline is 8400 not 8600 ;), oh and the manual gearbox is a ZF S6-53

[@f1racereview-mynotepad309]

Great review. I have an E90 M3 and I still think it's the best looking car in the world. Most of the time all I do is look at it because the fuel economy is so bad 😅

[@2702simmo]

Not long got mine to replace my old e46 M3. It’s the looks that had always put me off the E90 M3

[@velvetjones1856]

I also owned a 2011 E92 M3 and really liked it, maybe under appreciated it. Comfortable as a daily driver. 100% stock.

[@swiper1818]

I had the four door version of this with EDC - I regret having not kept it...

[@SquadronLeadr]

All the negative posts about reliability you would think people are being paid for it. Quite bitter. It is a very reliable car. Rod bearings? Treat them right and they will never fail (99% do not fail). £1500 to do them once if you feel the need to put your mind at ease (as we don't know how previous owners have treated them) and they will last the life of the vehicle. To anyone who argues with that: no car should be ragged from cold start. Simple. And how many other naturally aspirated engines can you name, with such impressive specific output? That level of engineering requires fine tolerances and the right treatment (WARM IT UP and then swim in 8k revs to your heart's content). Where else are you going to find the same for the money? Yes, innumerable characterless turbos. Okay, some are better than others. But still. People need to appreciate what "thoroughbred" means. This car shares only around 15% of its parts with a non M E9x. That is real dedication to the cause. The last true (NA) M car and one of the greatest engines ever made.

[@Neil-914]

Have you ever watched the very in depth review, followed by owners review of savagegeese? Worth a watch

[@SquadronLeadr]

@@Neil-914 I have not. Will have a look, thanks.

[@SquadronLeadr]

I realise now that I did watch these, quite some time ago when I was thinking about my own purchase (4yrs ago). It seems to me that he was a bit unlucky with a few random gremlins. Also I'm pretty sure his dealer was shafting him for unnecessary work! My personal experience is 40k miles (so far) of reliable motoring. Throttle actuators done (refurbished by Rebuild.org, lifetime warranty, £600) and one day I will probably do rod bearings. Oh and an ABS sensor went. All in all, the car has been incredibly cheap to maintain considering what it gives me. Find a good independent BMW specialist and read up on how to look after the car (warm up procedure etc).

[@ACERASPIRE1]

Who's upset the fanboy? Rod bearing failure is real and common, don't kid yourself lad. Other NA V8's?, you never heard of Audi? they been using em long before BMW. with more power too. One of the greatest engines ever made? in your mind maybe LOL.

[@ACERASPIRE1]

Whats that other make who did a NA V8 also with more power? erm, Mercedes Benz thats them LOL

[@PB-wj8eg]

I'm really glad I've got EDC on mine. Comfort mode is noticeable better for general cruising

[@R-Tap]

Easily my fav of all the M3's.

[@skelejp9982]

My Friend had both E36 and E39, I was more impressed by the E36 in style, but the E39 impressed me more than any other car with the Breaking Speed, really next Gen compared to E36 . Once did a less than 23 Hour trip from Benalmaldena to Amsterdam 1184 miles / 1905.46 km in a E36 M3. Love the E39 Mirror Design ! 12:10 I once read an Article in the Auto Motor Sport Magazine (used to buy these magazine, also Easyrider, In the Wind ect..) , about the E36 , a Review of the M3 , Hartge, and Alpina Version, offcourse Alpina won... While improving the Engine , it had less Power than a M3, but was more fun to drive , ...because of the Comfort !

[@anttheman6370]

I owned my e92 m3 for 1 year now and I couldn’t be happier it’s an amazing unique machine

[@WarriorsPhoto]

I find it interesting to hear someone say, "It doesn't quite know what it's trying to be." I do enjoy the e9X chassis m3. In some ways it's mostly about that V8. I personally would get one of these with a DCT. As a daily driver the DCT is way more fun. Good review sir and excited to see more of BMW videos.

[@bmcguinness4053]

Have an e92 m3 manual with believe it or not bmw warranty. Fully agree with the comments on the passive dampers. It's painful on a non perfect road. So much so I'm thinking of getting the 18" wheels to soften it up.

[@TheKillaGP]

Owned mine about 6 months, first RWD car I have owned. Last car was a FN2 Civic Type R. Absolutely love it. No plans to sell it.

[@blarkdexture8899]

Those shirts O_o a bit James May

[@bunkaaa8726]

You must be new here!

[@pistonslapuk]

Lol who do you think he took his inspiration from?

[@mindlos3960]

The EDC does make a huge difference. The car becomes stiffer and seems to squat lower.

[@_dan_here_]

A couple of months ago I mentioned that I would respect your opinion on a car far more than most other car KZbinrs. I watched this and it was the last qualification I needed - I now own an e92 M3. Thank you for your help 🙏🏻

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Enjoy!

[@_dan_here_]

@@JayEmmOnCars if you ever need to borrow a completely stock 2012 - low mileage car for the channel give me a shout.

[@JC_46]

@@JayEmmOnCars how do you rate the E92 M3 to the B7 RS4?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@JC_46 better damped, the DCT box is great but I prefer the seats and manual in the Audi. Both feel a little light on torque, M3 will be better on track and is sportier but audi has more traction

[@sonnyp1573]

Bought my 2008 E90 M3 four years ago with 69k miles. I now have 82k miles and have no regrets at all. I set aside money for the rod bearings, motor mounts, and actuators. So all the major issues have been taken care of. I believe it will be a collectors one of these days. It doesn't have the torque or turbo like my wife's M235i, but that V8.... it's so addicting to make scream! That's why I quit listening to the radio when I drive it around.

[@SergeantMoetz]

Feel like now is the time to buy a decent manual example, keep it for a while, enjoy it and watch the market develop in your favor. The E46 market exploded in recent years - and with the legendary S65 engine - the E92 will too.

[@993mike]

These are great cars with the last true motorsports engine BMW made. Odd that you state that 390hp on a dyno is disappointing considering they are rated at 414 at the crank, so they must make more than the rated number because of driveline losses

[@Neil-914]

In the UK our dyno readouts are given in bhp unless otherwise stated. So they take drivetrain loss into account. These typically do see less bhp than their factory rating

[@lightning5273]

LOL James Corden mixed with Mimi from the Drew Carey show

[@samcourt6228]

That engine is awesome. It has a few issues, rod bearings and throttle actuators being the main ones but they can be sorted for not too much. The stock noise is a bit muted, but a quick OE mod releases a bit more bark. The noise at the redline is intoxicating. The DCT a fab gearbox in my opinion; it works fine around town and adds some real drama in its most aggressive setting (feels a bit unsympathetic though). People bang on about the lack of torque, but the one I drove felt fine pottering about. It did come alive when you drive it hard though. They do like a drink which killed it for me as a possible purchase. I love the B7 RS4, but it feels like a much much older car. Other than the amazing wingbacks it feels like an old interior. It also suffers with issues (DRC, coking), don’t make their claims power either.

[@willjames618]

Great info! Any prospects for possible purchase?

[@superfast30]

The last ///M car powered to be powered by a bespoke motorsport derived engine! Replace the rod bearings and the engine is bomb proof! The S65 is more exotic than engines found in actual exotics! I own one and the running costs are not as bad some people are lead to believe. Speak to anyone who has tracked a GT3 and a E92 M3 extensively and they will tell you that a GT3 requires more attention!

[@TheM5Dog]

Not quite as exotic as the S85, but it's a good engine that is for sure.

[@joetaka7620]

@@TheM5Dog S85 isn't the best sounding V10 compared to Lexus LFA and Porsche Carrera GT. Unless you use aftermarket headers, it sounds more like two 5 cylinder engines stuck together rather than an actual high pitched V10 sound. The S65 V8 on the otherhand is one of the best sounding V8s, alongside Ferrari F355.

[@AdsTrapatony]

@@TheM5Dog S65 comes from the S85 so they are both exotic.

[@superfast30]

@@TheM5Dog The S65 and S85 are identical engines with the only difference being that the S65 has 2 less cylinders. The internal engine components are identical!

[@eigilleikvam119]

@@joetaka7620 In my opinion you can't even compare the sound of a flat plane V8 like a F355 to a cross plane V8 like the S65, it makes a good sound, but far from a Ferrari

[@Fc-cb3tn]

2:02 this is honestly the first time I've seen James smiling when he floors the car usually it's an all serious face.

[@MrRoyck10]

JayEmm you said the same thing of your review E46 M, E86 M and E92, I am starting to think that you just dislike BMW's handling mainly, the word "flawed" were well used in those review. Personally a flawed rwd is better than these electronically assisted 4wd that does not require any driving skills to go fast. It was the E85 M that you gave a lukewarm approval.

[@TheRealDr.Mabuse]

M3 E92, designed for track but equipped for street. Love it!

[@NuvoVision]

My friend Tom has one of these.....his terrible shirt collection is equally as bad as yours. 😬💙

[@ChrissyThePoo]

Equally as brilliant* you must have made a mistake.

[@NuvoVision]

@@ChrissyThePoo Ill tell Tom there are 3 of you:)

[@venom5809]

Is he Tom from MySpace? 😂

[@NuvoVision]

@@venom5809 ...even better- Tom the Window man.

[@mulletmanpete]

Jay, I had 8 years in a B7 RS4 and loved it to death. What a machine. I seriously had doubts about chopping it for my current 2013 E92. But now, 18 months later, I think the BM is the better car, marginally.

[@bergeracvandamme]

1:54 the rod bearings don't need replacement at fairly frequent intervals. They may not even need replacing at all as there are E9x M3s with over 200k miles on the clock in the original bearings. However for peace of mind most owners get them replaced unless they somehow know for sure that the previous owner or owners have always serviced the engine as per schedule and have always got the engine properly warm before driving it hard, as these are the crucial factors. But hypothetically you could buy one of these cars with, say, 80k on the clock, spend £1,500 getting the rod bearings done and as long as the crank is fine, put another 200k miles on it without any bearing issues whatsoever just as long as you keep on top of servicing and never, ever drive the car hard before it's properly warmed up (and you know exactly when this is because they've got a variable redline on the rev counter which gradually increases as the engine gets up to temp).

[@smilepermile888]

Great that you collaborated with your relatively local fellow youtuber Adam, really enjoyed watching his Japan vlogs. My dream spec would be to get the ultra rare and ridiculously priced M3 CRT and fit it with Eventuri's Carbon plenum for that CSL-like induction sound, after the notorious rod bearings + throttle actuators issues have been dealt with! Mind you, the M performance Inconel exhaust that BMW offered sounds really sonorous and compliments that S65 without being distorted. Team Schirmer, Evolve Automotive and Mumbray motorsport know these cars inside-out. Savagegeese did a great documentation on his youtube channel, regarding his lukewarm ownership experience in his E92 as well.

[@SquadronLeadr]

Yep CRT is where it's at.

[@smilepermile888]

@@SquadronLeadr Yep, if there is one flaw to mention with the E9x M3, its the weight, so the CRT is known to be one of the lightest. And also its a 4 door saloon and I prefer those 'humble' aesthetics over the 2dr Coupe E92. Part of it might be to do with the shorter rear overhang and more pronounced rear wheel arches.

[@sansde1ty]

0:04 think that sound sold it to me.

[@1compaqedr8]

On first acceleration the exhaust doesn’t sound right, sounds like it’s not running 100% right. Doesn’t seem to accelerate as hard as others either.

[@christianford3747]

I had an E46 M3 a few years ago & also loved it! I currently have a 2008 Golf GT TDI 170 which is great for the mileage that I do but a little boring.. I've been looking more & more closely at E92's as a second car now that they're so much more affordable as a second car. Great video, I think it's time to start searching!

[@2702simmo]

I’d drive a couple first, I found the e46 a much more exciting car to own /drive

[@foreverautoenthusiast6585]

E92 M3's aren't flawed, people just don't spend the $$ to take care them.

[@Rogadog1]

D5 is great for hard driving as the gear changes are fast without the jolt of the S modes, which I'm sure is just for feel. It will change at redline and hold gears so I wouldn't agree it tries to get in 7th ASAP when driving spirited and the car notices. If you drive gentle in D5 then sure it makes no difference.

[@patricksmith1550]

Love the channel, love that grandma's curtains shirt even more

[@ianedmonds9191]

The E92 M3 was a hotrod. Big engine in a small car. Luv and Peace.

[@incubus1195]

Great vehicle. I am sorry but you need EDC on these. It makes a huge difference to the ride for day to day work and then hunkers down when you want it to ( but there are few UK roads you will want the stiffest setting on ). Is it flawed? Of course, what performance road car isn’t. Low end torque , actuators and brakes in particular. Personally I prefer the DCT over manual for a daily driver. Make sure you have the gearbox software updated of you have a pre 2011 model ( inexpensive, even with a main dealer ). Faster and smoother changes and reduces the upshift instability when driving spiritedly whilst cornering. Without it would suggest simply setting shift to 4 rather than 5, it decreases the chance of the back-end stepping out, apparently. I haven’t experienced issues with that particular trait myself ..... maybe I just don’t drive mine fast enough .... on a private road of course 😉). Great second hand bargain at present. Go for a competition spec or the Alpine limited edition ..... with EDC .... and wear a permanent smile.

[@Savorychicken41]

Best sounding M3

[@downtownneonlights]

I have an original m2 and f80 m3 in the family, l’m thinking this might be a great addition.

[@louis-philippelavoie6929]

The days to use a petrol car are numbered.As far as providing a motoring experience,not just sheer power,for that,just turbo anything. But As far as the experience of a piston engine,the E92 M3 is quite hard to beat.

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

Jaye's shirt isnt standard...!!! 😂👕👍

[@BrokenStatues7]

My only problem with the e92 M3 is that it costs only a couple grand less than a 2015 RCF (V8, nicer interior, more reliable, newer car) and a couple grand less than a 2015 M4. With both new cars likely having lesser miles. This is for California at least. Besides that I do think the M3 is a work of art...

[@memememine1]

Having driven multiple bmw m4s and owning an e90 m3 to drive for 3 years and around 30k miles. I can say while the m4 is a better "car" the older e92 m3 is much more fun if torque is not important to you. The feeling the chassis and steering gives is so much sweeter. I think the new m4 is a good car but not a great car. If you are comming from a econobox the m4 will give you a great experience. But the m4 compared to a older 911 or even e46 or e92 m3 feels kind of sterile. The m4 is a better daily and highway cruiser than those cars though. I don't dislike the m4 it just traded alot of the character of the old m3s for accelration and daily use ability.

[@joetaka7620]

RCF and M4 will never sound as sonorous as the S65 B40 V8 with individual throttle bodies that rev to 8400rpm

[@BrokenStatues7]

Joe Naka I think the RCF sounds almost as good and given the other pros of the car I mentioned it becomes a winner in my book. But to each their own of course. All great cars. Wish the M3 was either slightly cheaper or less prone to expensive repairs I do agree with nomnom, most newer cars lose the spark that older cars provide in terms of pure fun. Which is why i still love NA miatas to this day. A 997 is definitely a goal one day

[@roymoorman5990]

You are so spot on on the automatic "D" mode of the DCT. All it wants to do it get into the highest gear at all times. The US variant is even worse. And with all variants, it seems it only polls the throttle position maybe once every two seconds. I've had many times where I almost floor it on an onramp at 2500rpm and DCT upshifts right after that moment.

[@dankaro8996]

There's a setting to where it'll upshift at higher rpms rather than low

[@roymoorman5990]

@@dankaro8996 True , they call it Drivelogic. But even in D3 & D4 it annoyingly upshifts when you lift the throttle for a moment to save on emissions. and then when you want to go again engine sits at 1700rpm .. I feel there is a secondary logic here that gets activated when really driving aggressively. It will then hold gears longer, but the activation is kind of binary on/off and will not help you driving in city traffic

[@dankaro8996]

@@roymoorman5990 yeah u right

[@JelloTypeR]

I loved my E90 M3 I. That exact same individual white. Was spec’d up to competition pack levels which they did t offer on the E90. Had an Eventuri and the M Performance inconel exhaust. That car cost me sooooo much in monthlies, depreciation and servicing that I could have run a McLaren. That engine though! Between 6-8750 was ballistic.

[@joetaka7620]

Sounds like you used the exact aftermarket parts that i'd personally go for with a E90 M3. If you have any old videos of your car, would be amazing if you could post some videos of your M performance inconel exhaust.

[@upbuild4397]

I’ve wanted one of these E92 M3’s for so long now. Really enjoying you’re reviews, very honest! I like that 👍👍

[@stevewhite9653]

I have owned a E92 M3 in manual and like you say the fuel consumption is terrible, but the engine makes up for it with noise. A must though is the edc shocks, unless you want coil overs, but steering feel was never something that I was ever happy with.

[@francomartini4328]

Theoretically the car I've always desired is a naturally aspirated V-8 hardtop convertible so the droptop version of the E92 should fit the bill to a tee except that it doesn't. I could go on about the recognised engine problems (throttle actuators burning out because they're located in the valley, rod bearing failure because it's an engine that demands to be thrashed and is at it's best in the 5,000 to 8,000 rpm range, etc., etc.) but I could even live with the risks given that I would be buying it as a toy for my retirement rather than as a daily driver. No, what puts me off is far simpler. To my mind a V-8 needs to sound like a V-8 or there's no point in owning one and the E92 M3 simply doesn't. If it had a flat plane crank (like Ferrari V-8s) then I could understand because the firing order of the cylinders alternates from one bank to another. However, it's a cross plane crank meaning that the firing order is uneven hence it should have that typical burble but it doesn't because it's too rev-happy. If I could only find an AMG E63 convertible with the M156 engine (virtually impossible in this country) or even a coupe then I would have that because it sounds right. Unfortunately all that I keep running into is C63 saloons. The Beemer ticks all the boxes for me except the most important one. Such a shame.

[@XcoolcoolbeansbeansX]

Never heard someone complain about a V8 that likes to rev to much, but there is a first for everything. The sound comes down to the exhaust setup, which is arguably one of the only mods these cars really need. So basically, It’s perfect... I’m not sure why you are hung up on the sound of the stock exhaust.

[@francomartini4328]

@@XcoolcoolbeansbeansX it's not the stock exhaust, if it were it would be easily solvable as problems go. It's that the car was specifically designed for well-healed boy racers and I'm not particularly interested in that side of things. Unless you live on a race track (or have ambitions to) then all that performance is useless to you, particularly if you a) are anti using it on the public highway in principle as I am -- I know, I'm a boring old fart -- and b) you intend to keep hold of your driver's license. Furthermore, I live in London where the speed limit on most roads is 20 mph. I know that you're going to reply "but it's an M-car. Performance is the whole point." and that's true but as I said, I'm after a V-8 engined coupe with a folding metal hardtop and there aren't any others period. I could go for the F12 6 Series with the 4.4 litre but that's a) a cloth top and b) a twin turbo jobbie. Otherwise there's the Mercedes SL but that's a two-seater or the Mercedes AMG E63 droptop which is impossible to find in the UK or something American (Mustang / Camaro / Challenger) none of which I fancy in their latterday iterations. My only other choice is to forget the V-8 altogether and go for the (F33) 4 Series with the 3 litre turbo inline 6 or just forget petrol altogether and do what everybody else in London has been doing for the last decade or more and go diesel.

[@Noisyrilo]

Cool story bro

[@Noisyrilo]

@@mislavkonjik2827 they’re 2 very completely different cars. Comes down to personal preference.

[@hassanmohammed7953]

Hi , I’ve decided to buy an e93 m3 but I just can’t seem to make up my mind on the transmission. I want to own the car for a long time so I want to have fun in it but also I want to grab one before they become too much. I want my to appreciate as much as possible so shall I get a manual or dct? Btw the car will be in a dry storage when not used.

[@mishview]

i would say manual..... in a long time will be the more exotic

[@_down_to_drive_]

Definitely one of the great M cars of our generation. Now to start looking at the classifieds.

[@2702simmo]

Buy mine 14 weeks in I can’t take to it, the e46 M3 was so much better

[@dan123ben]

Yes the e92 is to big and heavy it’s no sports cars it’s a powerful cruiser

[@_down_to_drive_]

@@2702simmo Definitely would day e46>e92. But I'm just in love with the sound track, I wonder if there is much you could to to change the dynamics of the e92 without spending silly money to get there. A bit of weight reduction, suspension mods and maybe some interior changes to make it worth while.

[@_down_to_drive_]

@@dan123ben Very true, and unless you have GTS money I guess you could modify it to your liking to get the best out of that engine.

[@vqh]

everyone needs to own and experience the E9X M3 at least once in their life.....they will be very desirable cars in the near future which also means the price for clean/rare examples will go up.

[@TheKillaGP]

I have read on a fair few forums that the rod bearing and throttle actuator issues are not as widespread as people think, mainly on the pre 2010 ones, anyone else heard that?

[@mikedifford4269]

As an owner of an e92 m3, I agree with the majority of the statements made. I was waiting for the usual mention of lack of low end torque 😂 Jay, with 625 brake, yours must have been supercharged? Having driven a standard one, how did the dynamics compare?

[@raasalghul9211]

Thanks for a good, honest, informative review. Shame you never touched on how/ which problems could be ratified by aftermarket parts. i.e. the rod bearing problem.

[@craigyirush3492]

That shirt! So right about the engine - sonorous it is. And thrilling. One of the greats.

[@andrewradford1334]

I had a pre-LCI E90 and it was an epic car. Mine had the EDC and I would argue it was an essential item to have the car at its best, but without it, I'd say it shouldn't be a deal breaker as long as price reflects that and YOU like the way it gulps its way along the road. EDC dampers aren't going to be cheap come replacement time either. In terms of running costs; watch out for the fuel consumption and brake discs!!!! I would struggle to beat 22MPG in mine on normal running, and brake discs and pads were crazy expensive for OEM replacements and have to be changed on every 3rd set of pads (as a guide). Over 18k miles, I had no issues on mine at all. It was used as a family car much of the time, but I did run a cheaper "station car" for the weekday commute. A nice car to own and travel in, but felt a tad bulky to chuck along windy B roads compared to a Golf R with comparable performance. But it's a V8 - a wonderful, high revving V8.

[@DizzleTizzle83]

I’ve had a manual e90 m3 and the gearbox was pretty poor. Did not suit the engine in my opinion. Regretted not getting the DCT.

[@augustortiz]

Im on the opposite side of the argument, I have a DCT car but cant bring myself to buy a manual since so many owners like you say that the gearbox is a letdown! Is there no way to make it feel better? For me the DCT is undoubtedly better suited for the engine but I just really want a manual sometimes.

[@incognito96]

@@augustortiz has a e92 manual yous can't rush the manuals gearbox was crap, just found the engine dominates , has it got right oil, now I can rev it after 10 mins, actuators , rod bearings, fuel hearing the bong every 5mins. Then the kicker the BMW warranty every month just to have piece of mind , and it's not that quick .

[@DizzleTizzle83]

incognito96 completely agree

[@mullner88]

Find a good one that’s been looked after and it’s not bad at all to maintain. I daily one of these and it’s cheaper to run than my equally low mileage cayman S I traded for

[@TheChannel1978]

Wished it NZ there would be a reputable place to replace rod bearings. I've asked the service manager of the local BMW dealership and he said they never replace rod bearings because it's not needed. It's just a joke here, you guys are lucky in UK AND US. You have insane politicians but at least you can get your cars sorted!

[@PrimaryIgnition]

had one. competition, 6 speed, last year and it was glorious

[@nikkhanna2712]

I really enjoyed your review. I’m currently considering between this and a 2010-2011 Maserati Grandtourismo. Before you think I’m absolutely daft, I’m keen on a spirited V8 that I will enjoy driving and one that will become somewhat of a collector’s item for us petrol heads with the constant shift towards diesel, hybrid, electric.

[@delboy2596]

I've been lucky enough to have owned both an M3 and an M3 competition. The M3 was a maunal car with no adaptive dampers. And it was terrible As Jay stated. The ride is over firm. especially for the UK's broken roads. But by far the worst thing about it was the manual gearbox. It was like something from the dark ages. Like changing gear in a 1930 tractor. The throw was way to long. The Competion DCT was a completely different car. The softer damper settings. The DCT and the extra gear which helped economy more than you might think, just made it a much nicer thing to live with.

[@Atomicpasi]

Original is always the best choice. And you chose one of the best cars ever to review

[@adamivell]

ohhhh baby

[@cajstretton]

Drove mine 2k miles across Europe, love it!

[@Roadwarrior92]

That shirt is fairly powerful!

[@MRFUCKOFF202]

Believe it or not, most of those blank buttons are always just blank. In some older models the outer two are heated seats, but later they moved them to the climate controls. One in the middle can be parking sensors and another stop/start. That’s it. The rest are always blank.

[@paragon84]

Also the rear window blind.

[@Ivahardon69]

How can you say the steering is just okay I had one and when your pushing it hard the car is so well balanced the steering is another level. The way these handles are on another level. Maybe do a free track day’s and work on your driving ability.

[@paulallen6915]

The XHP software for the DCT makes a real difference on the Getrag 7 speeder.

[@peepshitstudio]

You do realize KW V3s are very good Mid-High end coil overs. Very hard for an auto manufacturer to develop a suspension as good as a strictly suspension shop from Germany. Part of the reason Porsche use Bilstein for suspension components. General rule, expect nice coil-overs to ride better than stock and perform better

[@abuhussain2534]

It’s the greatest car if it’s time, alongside the v10 m5

[@londonman8688]

e92 , c63s or a vxr monaro ? what would you have jay

[@javi_335i]

That shirt added 50 hp 🔥🔥🔥

[@stop4rage954]

Sounds like one of them scientists explaining to 007 how the deadly gadgets work on his car 🤣🤣

[@a.c.9495]

Fantastic review and handsome shirt !! I believe the E92 is the latest M3 to deserve love. I owned the replacement M4 and sold it after one year. Asides from its great look and horribly sounding, yet brilliant engine everything else is a let down.

[@blademanx]

My mate had one with a Meisterschaft GTC and tune. Sounds crazy. Hes had a few issues with it though. More than theyll like to admit. Rod bearings, throttle actuator and gearbox issues. But hey whos counting.

[@DC5dotty]

Adam Ivell’s. Nice

[@anthonydeluca6966]

I've had mine for a year and I absolutely love it. Definitely is a temperamental car but that's last great M car. If you can find a good example pick it up. Bc these really wont get much cheaper

[@michaelarchangel1163]

Is there a permanent fix for the rod bearings ? Was there an initial size discrepancy, or is there a serious design flaw for oiling of the big and small ends ?

[@FlagnarBoobz]

Incorrect redline figure! 8600 is with a map only. 8400 is pre map :)

[@turbo_tigerlive]

390hp on the rollers is over 400 at the flywheel so manufactures claims of 420is hp is right as most car companies bench test their engines then use this higher figure as official bhp figures

[@Sierra747]

Great sounding engine on these e90’s but I’d much rather own a m4. Far quicker and tuneable plus I far prefer turbocharged engines.

[@poovaneswaransupramaniam19]

Hi jay..nice review man....very honest and informative...regards from Malaysia

[@NuvoVision]

....and thank you for the content 🙏🙌