Rate the best characteristic of each M3(4) generation

[Slowphiveo]

I've been toying with the idea of getting an older generation M3 as a kind of project/fun side car to go along with my M4. E30's are out of the question because of price, so I have been primarily focused on E36 through E9x generations. It got me to thinking about what is the best characteristic of each generation up to the latest G8x M3(4). I'd love to here some of your thoughts on what made each generation special on its own way (yes even the new G8x with its nostril face).

In my opinion as follows: the E30 is special just because its "Genesis". Its not particularly fast or powerful by modern standards, but we owe the entire lineage to its success. The E36 turned the M3 into civilized car that could be daily driven and still have fun at the track as well...basically the beginning of the M3 as a true dual purpose car. The E46 was probably the most driver focused M3 and really emphasized the balance between power and handling. The E9x has the best engine. Yes the newer cars have more power and torque, but the sound that car made and being able to rev to over 8k revs was awesome. The F8x is the best looking generation. The car just looks sinister from every angle. As far as the latest generation goes, its kind of just speculation but from what I can tell I'm going to say it has the best interior of any generation. Of course this is all very subjective...what are some of your thoughts? At this point I'm leaning toward an E9x as a side car.

[FormulaMMM]

I like your summary of the gens.

E9X side car is ideal. It is the zenith of authentic M engine development. Underpowered by modern standards, but doesn't matter when your interest is enjoying every 500 rpms.

One thing I'd add -- F8X is characterized by chassis development imo. It was such a leap over E9X.

[Tommy L Garage]

Here are my thoughts on each generation

E30: alpha (beginning). And lovely interior, but underpowered
E36: 50-50 weight distribution; ideal track rat
E46: best looking M3 and lovely interior
E9X: screaming V8 and high seating position
F8X: torque baby! And crazy tuning potential
G8X: departure from the norm

[Humdizzle]

i can only speak to the ones I've experienced

e36: excellent handling. light weight. the best steering out of any of them (never drove an e30 though)

e46: best looking

e92: its all about the v8 and that counts for ALOT. great build quality compared to its competition. felt more refined than my GTR at the time (2012).

f80: FAST, torquey. for the first time in an M3 we actually get decent brakes and enough power to where you have to show it some respect. if you like a car that can scare you this is it. low traction given its power.

[9M71]

g8x: awd

[sna66]

F8X: SCH

[Sassicaia]

E30: Started the trend of a wolf in sheep's clothing
E36: 50/50 weight distribution
E46: Looks great, category killer. Will be best classic of the bunch IMO
E9X: Sound. Looks awesome.
F8X: Best looking, incredible torque. punched above class
G8X: Made every past gen look that much better.

[Flint Rockbone]

I've also been dreaming of toying with an older gen M3 as a side project. Just need to find the garage space. Maybe my wife's e89 can sleep outside.

[THEROK]

E30 never owned don't care

E36 best side mirror design; wasn't too enthralled with the drive or ergonomics; love its boxy looks with high rear wing option and Vader seats

E46 owned one new so sentimental; six speed action sucked, but tolerable with ssk; worst sounding M ever from the outside; body in white weak; looks great with the full CSL kit; timeless interior looks great to this very day

E9X worst looking M ever with slab sided looks with no arse to speak of; V8 is nice but overly hyped with no dry sump and specious motorsport connection

F8X best M design of all time blah blah blah

G8X don't care, won't ever buy