The BMW M3 is the high-performance version of the BMW 3-Series. Besides, it is developed by BMW’s in-house motorsport division, the BMW M GmbH. Regardless, which cars are similar to BMW M3?
The BMW M3 has many rivals on the market. Nonetheless, there are only a handful of cars that are similar to the BMW M3. Some of them include Mercedes-AMG C43, Audi RS5, Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, Maserati Ghibli, and BMW M4.
Which cars are similar to BMW M3?
Mercedes-AMG C43
Mercedes-Benz always stands by its slogan, “The Best or Nothing.” The Mercedes-AMG C43 is a good example of this motto. While the BMW M3 is a high-performance car with lots of the latest technology, the AMG C43 offers comfort, high-tech features, and luxury. And since it is an AMG trim, this car gives the M3 a run for its money.
The Mercedes-AMG C43 is fitted with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 402 hp, while the M3 produces 473 hp. Aside from that, it comes with performance-enhancing tech, including rear-wheel steering and adaptive dampers for aggressively tuned suspension.
All in all, the M3 and AMG C43 are very similar in many ways. They both perform outstandingly, have an agile look, and have excellent handling. When it comes to price, the AMG C43 goes for $63,000, while the M3 for $73,795. Despite the high price tag, the Mercedes-AMG C43 looks more elegant than the M3, but the M3 performs better.
Audi RS5
Similar to BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C43, Audi also boasts high-end and luxurious features. The Audi RS5 has a more luxurious and advanced interior than the M3, but the AMG-C43 is still better. Nonetheless, it has outstanding handling abilities, making the ride smooth and fun to drive.
When it comes to power, the Audi RS5 comes with a 2.9-liter V-6 engine that delivers up to 444 hp. This is better than the AMG C43 but still lower than the BMW M3. The Audi RS5 boasts the Quattro all-wheel-drive system that gives it more power and makes the ride easy on all surfaces and terrains.
With an excellent acceleration of 3.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph and a top speed of 155 mph, Audi RS5 and BMW M3 can go neck to neck on the track. Nonetheless, the Audi RS5 is slightly costlier than the BMW M3. Audi RS5 goes for $76,995.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The Cadillac CT4-Y Blackwing is one of the most powerful cars on this list. Thanks to its twin-turbo 3.6-liter V-6 engine that delivers 472 hp and 445 lb-ft of torque. This is very close to BMW M3’s horses as it delivers 473 hp on its base model. Nevertheless, the comparison in performance ends there as the M3 is more powerful than the CT4-V Blackwing.
When it comes to acceleration, the BMW M3 takes 3.5 seconds to hit 0 to 60 mph, while the Cadillac CT4-V takes approximately 4.0 seconds. Besides, the CT4-V is also comfortable and luxurious, but the quality of materials are not at par with BMW’s M3. With a base price of 61,890, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is a great bargain.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
If you want a sports car that’s similar but performs better than the BMW M3, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is the best choice. Equipped with a 2.9-liter V6 engine, this car produces up to 505 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. This thwarts the BMW M3 with more than 30 hp.
Aside from performance, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio can’t match up with BMW M3 or Mercedes-AMG C43 in comfort and reliability. Its interior is quite lacking and it has lots of issues. It is also pretty costly as it goes for around $80,755. Nonetheless, this car looks more appealing than the BMW M3.
Maserati Ghibli
Maserati Ghibli looks majestic and luxurious. It also comes with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers up to 345 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. When compared to the BMW M3, it is clear that the M3 is the more powerful and high-performance ride. Nonetheless, the Maserati Ghibli is luxurious with high-tech features. It is also more elegant.
The base price for the Maserati Ghibli is around $83,795, which is quite on the high side considering the BMW M3 is better in several ways.
BMW M4
The BMW M4 was part of the M3 before it was rebranded. So, they are based on the same platform and share lots of features. For instance, the base M4 trim also produces a maximum of 473 hp, while the M4 competition produces up to 503 hp. The main difference between these cars is that the M3 is a sedan, while the M4 is a coupe. Furthermore, the M4 goes for $75,695, while the M3 for $73,795.
FAQ
Is it worth buying the BMW M3?
Yes, the BMW M3 is worth buying if you love speed. This car is also fascinating to drive as it’s fast, comfortable, easy to handle, spacious, and safe. But if you’re not ready to spend to maintain it, you should not invest in it.
What are the main problems with BMW M3?
The BMW M3 looks elegant, luxurious, spacious, and performs excellently, but it also has different problems that owners should note. Common problems with the BMW M4 are a faulty transmission, loud internal engine noise, engine failure, fuel pump failures, lack of spare tire, and leaking power steering hose.
How much does it cost to maintain the BMW M3?
It will cost you approximately $1,161 to maintain BMW annually. This is more than the industry average of $651. To avoid incurring such high maintenance costs, you should adhere to BMW’s recommended maintenance service.
Conclusion
The BMW M3 is a high-performance model of the BMW 3-Series. Additionally, it is beautifully designed with high-end and luxurious features. The car is also fast but with several competitors like the Mercedes-AMG C43, Audi RS5, BMW M4, Maserati Ghibli, and much more.
If you’re undecided about which car to choose between BMW M3 and its competition, this comparison should help you to pick the right car for your needs. The Mercedes-AMG C43 is the most luxurious, while the Cadillac CT4-V is the cheapest. All in all, BMW M3 is still one of the best sports cars on the market.