BMW 3 Series G20 vs BMW M3 G80
BMW 3 Series
G20 · 2018 – 2026
The seventh-generation 3 Series (G20), on the CLAR rear-wheel-drive platform.
BMW M3
G80 · 2021 – 2026
The current M3 (G80), BMW’s high-performance saloon on the CLAR platform.
BMW 3 Series
Pick the 3 Series for benchmark handling, efficient engines and a premium cabin in a compact executive sedan.
BMW M3
Pick the G80 for the first M3 with optional M xDrive and a manual base variant — S58 pace with everyday saloon practicality.
Performance
B48 320i · Petrol vs M3 Competition · Petrol
| BMW 3 Series | BMW M3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
184 hp
|
510 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
300 Nm
|
650 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
7,1 s
|
3,9 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
240 km/h
|
250 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
125,2 hp/t
|
286,5 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
134 g/km
Winner
|
230 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
5,9 L/100km
Winner
|
10,5 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW 3 Series | BMW M3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
480 L
|
480 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
—
|
1.200 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,85 m
|
2,86 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,71 m
|
4,79 m
|
| Ground clearance |
14,4 cm
|
12,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
11,4 m
Winner
|
12,2 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
1.600 kg
Winner
|
0 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW 3 Series | BMW M3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (rear-wheel-drive base) | CLAR (G80, rear-wheel drive or xDrive) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B48 2.0 · B58 3.0 · B47 2.0 diesel · 330e PHEV | S58 3.0 twin-turbo petrol |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- EGR cooler can leak on B47 diesels
- Transfer case (xDrive) judder on early cars
- Adaptive dampers need checking at high mileage
- Cooling-system plastics and electric water pump
- Oil-cooler or seal sweating (early cars)
- Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)
Pros
- Sharp handling from rear-wheel drive
- Big boot & roomy rear seat
- Strong, efficient B-series engines
- Rear-wheel drive retains classic M balance
- xDrive versions are quicker and more secure in poor grip
- Usable rear seats and a 480 L boot for a performance saloon
Cons
- Firm ride on M Sport (run-flat)
- Pricier than most rivals
- Big and heavy (~1,705–1,940 kg)
- Firm ride, especially in stiffer settings
Driving experience
BMW 3 Series
Precise, balanced and still the class benchmark to drive. Steering is quick, accurate and communicative, body control taut, and the rear-drive chassis stays planted yet adjustable through bends. sDrive keeps the classic 3 Series balance and a hint of playfulness; xDrive adds all-weather grip without dulling the nose. The optional adaptive M suspension spans comfortable to firmly controlled. The B48/B58 petrols are smooth and free-revving, the B47/B57 diesels pull strongly and stay refined, and the 320e/330e plug-in hybrids glide silently on electric power. The ZF 8-speed is quick and seamless; the early manual is a rare, engaging treat. Overall a poised sports saloon that blends sharp dynamics with everyday comfort.
BMW M3
Powerful, refined and highly capable. Steering is precise, body control is excellent and the car feels planted and engaging. Rear-drive versions retain classic M balance and playfulness; xDrive versions are more neutral, secure and quicker off the line. Adaptive M suspension offers a wide range between firm and acceptable comfort. The S58 is strong, free-revving and characterful with excellent mid-range and high-rev performance. The manual (base) is engaging; the ZF 8-speed (Competition) is quick and smooth. Overall a highly versatile high-performance saloon that balances dynamics with everyday usability better than many predecessors.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
For sale at dealers
BMW 3 Series
0 for saleNo listings at the moment
