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The 2022 BMW M3 marked a milestone in the model’s long and illustrious history as it was the beginning of the all-wheel-drive option.
The newly available option can only be used with the Competition model’s automatic transmission and BMW claims that the addition of all-wheel drive makes the M3 Comp faster than its rear-drive equivalent, even though this means customers cannot couple it with the DIY six-speed gearbox.
The BMW M3 is a high-end sports sedan that is powered by a stunning turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six powertrain. This engine is capable of producing 473 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. In addition, every M3 comes standard with adaptive dampers as well as a brake-pedal feel that can be customized.
The sedan has the capability of being upgraded with even more powerful carbon-ceramic brakes. These come with calipers that have a cool gold paint job.
However, BMW M3, which starts at $69,900, may not be able to fulfill all of your needs. That is why we have done some research on other vehicles that are comparable to the BMW M3 and can be considered as alternatives to the BMW M3. Keep reading for more.
1. Audi RS 5
While the Audi RS 5 is not offered as a sedan but rather as a coupe, it was designed to provide the same kind of exhilarating driving experience as an M3. A turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 is responsible for the vehicle’s 444 horsepower.
But, even with 444 horsepower on tap, Audi’s RS5 is more laid back and approachable than BMW’s edgier and more strung-out M3.
This vehicle boasts all-wheel drive, like many high-powered Audis, but the company’s technologies are sophisticated and fast-acting. In typical situations, sixty percent of the vehicle’s torque is sent to the rear wheels; but, if necessary, this figure may be increased to eighty-five percent and sent in front of the vehicle.
Even on a single axle, it can distribute power independently to each wheel. The result is a substantial amount of grip. The starting price for an Audi RS5 is around $76,995.
2. BMW M4
There are times when the only thing that can replace a BMW is another BMW. The M4 is the two-door variant of the M3, and as such, it offers excellent comfort levels, elegance, and everyday usage. Moreover, should you want them, the rear seats provide a reasonable amount of legroom.
The BMW M4 excels not just in terms of power but also in terms of grip. The base model of the M4 is powered by a ferocious twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces 473 horsepower.
The Competition model has a more powerful engine with 503 horsepower, a more responsive automatic transmission, and special chassis modifications. All-wheel drive is only offered on the M4’s automatic transmission. Any way you look at it, the M4 is a blast to drive and a pleasant experience even when you’re not out chasing apexes every day.
3. Mercedes-Benz C-Class 63 AMG
One of the sedans on the market with the finest performance is the Mercedes-AMG C-Class 63 AMG. It’s equipped with the legendary level of luxury that is synonymous with Mercedes, and it matches it with a massive 503-horsepower engine that can rocket the vehicle from 0 to 60 miles per hour in only 3.8 seconds.
Compared with the BMW M3, the Mercedes-AMG C63 offers a much more powerful engine and a more luxurious interior for around the same amount of money.
It’s possible that the look of the coupe or convertible is more appealing to you, but the sedan is still an excellent choice. It is lighter than the coupe, making it simpler for people in the back seat to enter and exit the vehicle.
The regular-strength version of the C63 comes standard with upholstery made of black faux leather as well as microfiber, while the S versions feature leather seats. There is an option between metal and wood for the inside accents of both models.
A 10.3-inch infotainment display with connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as two USB connections, and two USB connections, are included as standard equipment in the 2020 Mercedes-AMG.
4. Corvette C8
The excitement around the brand-new Corvette is well warranted. The C8 debuts a brand-new mid-engine configuration and packs more power and advanced technology than any previous model. While the inside resembles something that was taken directly from a fighter plane, the outward appearance is on par with that of exotic supercars that cost far more.
At a price that is noticeably lower than what you would spend on an M3, you can get behind the wheel of a sports vehicle that is both more powerful and more exciting.
A brand-new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters is coupled to the V8 engine. The new V8 engine generates 495 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, and its torque curve is remarkably flat between 3000 and 6000 revolutions per minute.
5. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
The Giulia is a direct competitor to the M3 and boasts an attractive Italian design. The most powerful model in the lineup, the Quadrifoglio, outperforms the M3. It does this in terms of power output with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6.
This generates 505 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. It can reach sixty miles per hour from a standstill more quickly. The M3 reaches 60mph in 4.1 seconds while the Quadrifoglio reaches the same in 3.6 seconds.
And much like the M3, it has rear-wheel drive. This is precisely how aficionados like their vehicles to be driven. In addition to that, it has a carbon fiber hood and top.
These help to cut down on weight while also reducing the vehicle’s center of gravity. All this results in improved maneuverability. The base price of the range-topping Giulia Quadrifoglio is $80,030.
Both prices are based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.
6. Kia Stinger GT
You might be thinking a Kia isn’t exactly the most obvious replacement for a BMW M3, but bear with us for a second. The Kia Stinger GT has been met with rapturous praise for its driving capabilities. The rear wheels, or all four, are driven by 365 horsepower.
There is also a 376 pound-feet of torque from a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 engine. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automated gearbox. The acceleration is remarkable: 4.4 seconds from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour.
A driving aficionado may get this car for a price of around $40,500. This is less than two-thirds of the price of a brand-new M3.
7. Lexus RC F
When compared to engines that use forced induction, there is something magical about a naturally aspirated engine. This is particularly true when the engine in question is a high-revving 5.0-liter V8. This is very similar to the one found in the RC F.
It seems to respond more quickly and precisely to throttle inputs, while its traction control technology continues to make driving simple. With 467 horsepower and 389 pound-feet of torque at its disposal, this coupe is a great alternative for the M3. The time it takes to get from zero to sixty miles per hour is 4.4 seconds.
In addition, given that it is a Lexus, the build quality is of the highest possible grade, and there’s a substantial amount of standard equipment included in the pricing. The price begins at $65,645.
Related: 12 Cars Similar to the Lexus RC F
8. Mercedes-AMG C 63/C 63 S
Another competitor to the BMW 3 Series lineup is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class in its standard guise. Buyers have the option of selecting between a coupe or a convertible version of the C 63. This is in addition to the sedan, which is a like-for-like alternative to the M3.
A twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine provides the C 63 with 469 horsepower. It also offers a 479 pound-feet of torque. The C 63 S brings those numbers up to 503 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.
The time it takes to sprint to 60 miles per hour is just 4.0 or 3.9 seconds, depending on the sprint. The C 63 sedan, which is both sporty and refined, has a starting price of $67,095.
9. Volvo S60 Polestar
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The S60 Polestar is the most similar thing Volvo has produced to the BMW M3, and it maintains a stealthy look. If you see one when you’re out and about, you could mistake it for a standard S60. However, what truly matters is the content that lies behind it.
The Polestar has a starting price of $60,995 and is equipped with a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine. This engine is both turbocharged and supercharged to produce 362 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque. It takes 4.4 seconds to get from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
Standard features consist of all-wheel drive, as well as shock absorber suspension.
10. BMW5
Although the M3 is a respectable sports car, the M5 raises the bar in terms of how sporty a vehicle can be. The M5 Competition is superior to the M3 in all aspects to which it can be superior. The inside of the vehicle is covered in leather and is crammed with a variety of high-end amenities; while the spaciousness of the automobile makes it very useful.
The 4.4-liter V8 that generates 617 hp is one of the most powerful engines that BMW has ever installed in a production vehicle and it can be found under the hood of this vehicle.
The 5 Series offers a dynamic engine performance and handling, a roomy cabin, comfortable seats, a variety of standard technological equipment, and an entertainment system that is simple to use.
11. Audi RS 6
If you’re acquainted with Audi’s RS collection of vehicles, then you are aware that the RS6 is not your typical family station wagon. The vehicle may be useful and comfortable, but the manufacturer also equips each one with the most powerful engine they produce and the most cutting-edge electronics available.
Yes, you can reach 60 miles per hour in around 3.6 seconds thanks to the estate car’s 4.0-liter V8 engine, which generates close to 600 horsepower. This model only comes in one configuration, but you have a wide variety of options to choose from when customizing it. If you don’t want your car to be gray, you will have to pay a premium for the paint.
However, the Audi RS6 is equipped with certain driver aid technologies as standard, including adaptive cruise control as well as lane-keeping assist. Inside, the Audi RS6 flaunts a cutting-edge interior design that is complemented with cutting-edge technology.
12. BMW M2
The current generation of the M2 is appealing; its size and maneuverability are reminiscent of earlier M3 models. The M2 is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-size engine that produces a horsepower of 405hp. 406 pound-feet of torque is also produced by this same engine.
This combination may be sent to the rear wheels via a manual gearbox with six gears, which is standard. It may also reach the rear wheels via the dual-clutch automatic gearbox with seven gears, which is an available option.
According to the EPA, the M2 with the manual transmission is somewhat more fuel-efficient than the M2 with the automatic transmission. The manual transmission version gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the automatic version gets 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. It starts at $59,895.
Although the M2 Competition engages the driver’s senses and attracts attention when it’s on the road, the interior’s lackluster build quality prevents it from doing any of these things. At this price range, the panel fit and quality are unsatisfactory, although they are covered with flashy carbon fiber and faux-suede accents.
13. Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400
Infiniti is the only premium Japanese brand that has a chance of coming close to matching the handling capabilities of BMW. The Infiniti Q50 is the company’s small sedan and was refreshed for the 2018 model year. The Red Sport 400 is the most athletic version of the Q50 and starts at around $54,000.
The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 350-pound feet of torque and 400 horsepower may be found in this vehicle. That is a little bit of a letdown, considering that the engine is certainly capable of producing more. But, the car still provides a smooth and enjoyable ride.
This model comes standard with a wide variety of advanced technological features from the manufacturer, Infiniti. However, when compared to the cabins of competing sedans, the one in this car seems to be of much worse quality.
14. Cadillac ATS-V
This model is available as either a sedan or a coupe and starts for $68,750. Those who continue to believe that Cadillacs are large, ponderous vehicles should brace themselves to be astounded. The ATS goes up against the BMW 3 Series as a serious competitor, and this V variant is a high-performance contender.
Its 3.0-liter V6 has been improved with components such as titanium connecting rods. The whole configuration generates 464 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque, both of which are incredibly engaging. It takes 4.2 seconds to get from zero to sixty miles per hour.
Standard equipment includes an adaptive suspension, and the 6-speed manual gearbox is calibrated in a way that eliminates the need for the driver to take their foot off the throttle pedal while changing up. In addition to it, automatic transmission with eight speeds is available.
15. Porsche 718 Cayman T
Even though it has less horsepower than the 911, the Porsche 718 Cayman provides the ideal balance of performance, luxury, and good aesthetics. After all, it is a Porsche. The Cayman’s 300-horsepower engine can accomplish wonders because of the vehicle’s size and the excellent PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
It can accelerate to a peak speed of 170 miles per hour and throw the vehicle through curves with ease. At a price point of $70,000, it’s easily one of the best sports cars money can buy. This Porsche has room for two people.
Because of how low it is to the ground, it might be a little difficult for those who are taller to get into the seats. However, once you are inside, there is plenty of space for your head and legs, even if you are 6 feet tall. The basic model of the Cayman costs $60,500 to purchase.
This is a more affordable starting point than the majority of luxury sports vehicles, however several competitors in the same class offer lower-priced basic models.