The 2012 BMW M3 is coveted by car enthusiasts because it offers so much. From the luxurious interior design to the sleek exterior, this is a car that is meant for individuals who enjoy driving.
It is no longer available as a sedan, but the option of a hard top convertible is there. There are loads of features throughout the M3, some are new while others are classic. It handles well and has excellent reviews from both professional and regular car owners.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Coupe | Base Price: $60,100.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (62L) | MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Length: 181.9 in. (462 cm) | Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm) |
| Height: 54.9 in. (139.4 cm) | Width: 70.2 in. (178.3 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3428 lbs (1554 kg) | Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 11.0 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 4 people |
| Engine: 4.0L V8 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1 |
| Horsepower: 414 HP | Max RPM: 8300 RPM |
| Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds | Maximum Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h) |
| Option:Convertible | MSRP: $68,750; MPG: 13 city / 20 hwy |
Engine
The coupe comes equipped with a gas 4.0 L V8 engine. The horsepower is 414 at 8,300 and the transmission is manual. Rear wheel drive comes standard with the M3. The power of the engine is what draws a lot of drivers in, this car can take off pretty quickly. It runs on premium unleaded fuel and can carry 16.6 gallons inside the tank. The turbocharged engine offers lower redlines for this car.
Performance
This car gets 14 miles per gallon in the city, 20 on the highway and 16 combined. The maximum torque is 295 pound-feet at 3,900 rpm. It also has the lightest V8 in the world, even lighter than the previous M3. It can go from 0-60 in only 4.7 seconds, which is something many other similar cars cannot do.
Exterior
The M3 has a unique body kit with a sleek design. The carbon fiber roof and bulge on the hood make the car look more sporty and aggressive. Aluminum wheels come standard and the tires on the front and rear are both high performance. There is a tire pressure monitoring system that helps the driver stay safe while on the road. There is also a rear spoiler located on the back to give the car a sporty and young vibe.
Interior
The inside of the cabin has a beautiful and elegant design. The steering wheel has all controls on it so the driver can turn on the radio and switch stations as well. There is an auxiliary power outlet that is also located inside the cabin. Keyless entry, driver vanity mirrors, power steering and heated mirrors all come standard for buyers.
In addition to this, there is climate control and a dual zone a/c to keep all passengers comfortable. The entertainment system includes: cassette, HD radio, am/fm radio, and a CD player and MP3 player. The navigation system gives directions and allows the driver to use hands-free communication.
Safety & Reliability
The airbags in the car include: passenger, rear head, driver, side head and side. There is 4-wheel ABS brakes and brake assist to help the driver keep control of the car. Electronic stability control also contributes to a safer driving experience.
Pros
The car is light and livelier than similar vehicles.
It’s quick and very powerful.
The top speed it can reach is 155 mph.
There aren’t many bad things about this vehicle, making it the best M3 that BMW has released.
Competition
The Cadillac CTS V coupe (MSRP $63,215; 14 city / 19 hwy), the Mercedes Benz C Class (MSRP $61,430; 15 city / 22 hwy), and the steeply priced Porsche 911 Carrera (MSRP $79,000; 18 city / 25 hwy) are perhaps some of the main competitors of BMW for attention in this class of cars.
Overall Rating
85 out of 100
What others say:
“The M3’s comfortable front seats and a well-constructed interior are somewhat offset by the cramped rear seats and somber interior atmosphere.”Car Connection
“The 2012 BMW M3 gains as standard equipment an anti-theft alarm system, floor mats, and iPod/USB adaptor, Bluetooth and BMW Assist.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“Notably, as of 2012 the M3 4-door is no more; this is a 3 Series variant those wanting to travel at 150 mph (with their kids) will certainly miss. Going forward, the new sedan makes its debut first, after which BMW will fill in the coupe, convertible and wagon gaps.”KBB
“Sublime high-revving V8; otherworldly handling; relaxed highway ride; convertible’s sleek retractable hardtop…Limited interior storage; relatively cramped rear seat.”Edmunds
