A true street racer, the 2008 BMW M3 Coupe delivers impressive performance, thanks to its all-new, high-revving 414-horsepower V8 engine, the first eight-cylinder dropped into an M3. Engine elements borrowed from BMW's motorsports division, like individual throttle butterflies, provide faster response and better performance. The V8 drives the sporty coupe from 0 to 60 in just 4.7 seconds, resulting in an exhilarating ride. The powerhouse V8 engine links to a fast-shifting six-speed manual transmission, while a new lightweight, ventilated clutch stays cooler than that in previous versions, according to BMW.

The engine resides under the M3's powerdome hood, part of the coupe's muscular exterior design. A front air dam, aerodynamic exterior mirrors, air intake gills in the front side panels, a discreet spoiler at the rear, and dual tailpipes all combine to give the M3 an aggressive look. BMW used carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (again, borrowed from the motorsport side) for the M3 Coupe's roof, resulting in a lighter, more efficient, and more agile vehicle with a lower center of gravity. The M3 Coupe is the first production car in its segment with this type of roof, according to BMW.

Sport bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an intelligent safety system that controls airbags as well as the seatbelts and the central locking system in the event of an accident are among the M3's many interior features.

The M3 can be equipped with a range of innovative options, including the M Dynamic Mode, accessed by an M button on the steering wheel. The M mode adjusts a number of components, including the dynamic stability control, the suspension, and the throttle, to provide optimal performance at all speed levels. Drivers can also adjust the settings manually using the optional dashboard display.

Features such as the race-oriented engine and transmission, the lighter-weight body, and powerful antilock brakes get high marks from drivers and reviewers. Some note the M3 gets only mediocre gas mileage, and some think the exterior styling could be sportier. But overall the M3 delivers for drivers who are seeking a sport-oriented coupe.