2003 BMW M3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.74/5 Average
83 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For the 2003 BMW M3, BMW will offer a DVD-based navigation system -- meaning that you won't have to give up an in-dash CD player if you opt for the nav system. Additionally, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers are now standard, while aluminum interior trim is a new stand-alone option. The power seat package has been excised from the coupe's option list, so you'll have to spring for the pricey premium package if you want power front seats (these come standard on the convertible).

Pros:
  • Remarkable engine, race-carlike handling, killer good looks, sumptuous interior, available Sequential Manual Gearbox.
Cons:
  • Uninspired exhaust whine, having to pay extra for basics like power seats and an alarm system.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 83.00
  • Not the Ultimate BMW - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    Ive owned BMWs (540IA, 528IA) Porsches (930, 944T), Shelby Cobras (427SC, GT500s) and many other American muscle cars dating back to 1964. Although my 2002 M3 convertible with a 6-speed is fast and handles well I dont feel it is the "ultimate" BMW. As soon as I can dump my M3 that now sells for wholesale because of its reputation for blown engines Ill buy an M5 or Mercedes CLK 55 AMG.

  • Great Car - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    2003 6 speed Black with Red interior which is beautiful. Engine is unbelievable and handling is typical 3 series which is great. I also have a 330cic and this handles much better. Fuel tank is too small, Im averaging about 20 miles per gallon so far. Sport mode is alittle hard to get used too at slow speeds but it hauls ass and is a blast to drive. I highly recommend this car.

  • Wow !! - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    I have NEVER had more fun with a car. Great fit and finish. A thrill to drive. The SMG is the future...get it now. Its not hard to learn. A5 mode not bad for drinking coffee or using the phone. Back to BMW after many years (1987). What I love is the market for all the cool add-ons.

  • Awesome Ride - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    My research led me to this beauty - no doubt the best vehicle Ive driven.

  • Sweet Ride!! - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    WOW! What a car! This car is a step up over the previous model (1997-my last M3). More power, better features.

  • The best M Ive ever driven - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    I just loving, nothing to say. The fastest NA car Ive ever driven.

  • Great Car - One of a kind - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    Name another vehicle that seats four, offers open-air motoring, and goes like stink. This is one of the most practical, and among the most exciting, sports cars available today, all for a relative bargain. Beyond rational considerations, look at this thing. I have tested every single convertible out there (from Ford Thunderbird to Mercedez) and none can compare to the BMW M3 convertible (unless you are willing to spend more than $100,000 for a Z8 or the new 500 Mercedez convertible).

  • Nice, but way overrated. - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    The exhaust note is too loud and raspy. That may fit a utilitarian, no- compromises car like a 911, but not a BMW. At lower speeds there is a looseness in the gearbox. It sounds like something is broken. BMW says this is totally normal given the cars racecar heritage. I say thats a cop-out. The car is fast but not enough to justify that. The stereo sucks. Ive had problems with speaker vibration from the beginning and BMW cant or wont fix it. The cars performance envelope is too far beyond what you can do on the street. Under normal driving, this car is no better than the 330ci. My advice is to save the extra $20k and buy that model.

  • smg is great - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    Absolutely no regrets. Rides smooth when city cruising rides hard when pushing it. Windblocker on the cab means tunes can be heard in any weather. Sunny day and SMG means happy man.

  • The Ideal High-Performance Car - 2003 BMW M3
    By -

    This car is fantastic. Top-notch performance: acceleration, handling, braking. Great looks. Very comfortable and smooth. Can be driven very smoothly or very aggressively. How many other high performance cars have a back seat that can hold two 6 3" adults comfortably. I feel like Im on vacation every time I drive this car. Downshift with a flick of the SMG2 paddle, hit the accelerator, and smoothly zip past and around any car going too slow. 155mph top speed. Drives very well in rain and light snow, with help of limited slip rear differential and DSC (which I turn off when the pavement is dry). I love the heated seats in cold-weather.

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