[SD987]

I think there is some over-generalization going on here about the M3. Yes, the original M3 (1980s e30) was produced to homologate the car for racing, but with subsequent versions (1990s e36 and '00s e46) only modified special edition versions were ever used for racing, and those sparingly.

If you've driven them, then you realize how different they are. I'd personally consider the original e30 to be the most impressive considering that it's final spec was a 238 hp 4-banger and the acceleration felt brutal back in the day (college roommate had one). It was the first "sports" car I ever got to drive.

The U.S. version of the e36 version isn't remotely acquainted with a modern definition of fast as it's heavy and has only 240 hp. It tends to get dissed by M enthusiasts

The e46 is a great car as a coupe, but as Perfectlap says, with the roof removed becomes a barge. The e46 coupe is about the same as the 987S performance wise but as a convertible it's best used for hauling around in style. M3 coupe vs. 987 S numbers for 0-60 and the 'Ring are 4.8 / 5.2 and 8:22 / 8:18.

I'm as excited as everyone else to see what the new 8 cylinder M3 will be like. Considering that the 335i is a badass car the M3 could be truly frightening.

I'm going to have to agree with Jeph, although it's obviously a subjective call, but I think one would really have to scrunch up the eyes to consider the 986 a better looking car than an e46 m3 convertible.