Over the last 50 years, BMW's performance division has produced over 23 M-badged vehicles. These BMW "M" cars involve sedans, coupes, and even SUVs. The M3 represents an upgraded version of the 3 Series, and all its improvements are inspired by racing.

Not only are the engines in the BMW M3 unique from those in standard 3 Series cars, but they also always feature better braking and suspension. The M3s have enhanced bodies with lighter weight and superior aerodynamics for maximum performance.

All M3s are perfect driving machines, but some models over the years managed to outshine others. If you plan to buy one used, we’ll help you find your perfect M3.

10 2010 E90 M3 GTS

The GTS was designed for track and the street. It came equipped with a fixed rear subframe, a 444-hp 4.4-liter V8, and adjustable suspension. Besides, the GTS was one of the meanest M3s in BMW history with an upgraded engine, adjustable aero, and reduced curb weight.

The GTS is one of the most expensive M3s you will find today, with an average price of $175,000. This massive price tag will alienate the majority of BMW M3 buyers, considering that newer M3 models like the F80 are going for a quarter of the cost. However, if you have the bankroll, this is one of the rarest models to buy with only 150 units made and a true collector's piece.

Related: Here's Why the E91 M3 Is The Best M-Car BMW Never Built

9 1990 E30 M3 “Sport Evolution II”

The Sports Evolution II is among the most expensive BMW M3 models to buy, with an average price of $165,000. It's also among the most desirable and rare classic cars globally, with only 505 units made. The Sports Evolution II was the most powerful version of the E30 M3s featuring a larger 2.5-liter engine with 238 hp.

The E30 M3 is a fully-fledged collector's item featuring a stunning rear spoiler, additional air ducts, thinner glass, a deeper chin spoiler, and lighter bumpers. It also features unmistakable swollen fender flares.

8 1988 E30 M3 “Evolution II”

The Evolution II came to be as a homologation special that's now worth over $135,000. In the '80s, FIA required the company to build 5,000 road-going versions to prove that their Group A 3 series was based on a production vehicle. The kicker, BMW had to sell all these cars within a year.

This Evolution II only carried over the roof and doors from the standard E30 3 series. Everything else was souped-up, starting with the 2.3-liter inline-four engine producing 220 hp derived from their M1 supercar. The car also got revised spoilers, bigger wheels & tires, and valve covers with three painted stripes of the M livery.

Related: BMW Celebrates 50 Years Of The M Name

7 2003 E46 M3 CSL

The E46 CSL was an homage to the 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL. It was a standard vehicle without everything that made it heaver. The E46 CSL featured a carbon-fiber roof, glass-reinforced plastics and was produced for a single year with 1,383 units.

The E46 CSL also featured a 3.2-liter inline-six engine producing 360 hp. This dynamic driving machine shed a total of 110 kg that helped with higher corner speeds. However, the performance and lighter weight don’t come cheap, with the E46 CSL going for an average price of anywhere between $81,000 and $120,000.

6 2021 G80 M3

The G80 M3 aims at offering the best driver's performance. There are three main models available with the G80 M3, including the base version, competition, and xDrive. The new G80s are currently the best M3 you can buy in terms of features, performance, and safety.

The G80 is a driver and a fan favorite because it offers two transmission options, manual and automatic. The interior is the place to be featuring a refreshing 12.3-inch digital unit and a 10.25-inch center display with BMW's latest iDrive 7.0 system. The G80 M3s will cost you anywhere from $79,000 to $86,000, depending on your preferred model.

Related: 2021 BMW M3 Review: Massive Power, Solid Refinement, And A Six-Speed Manual Gearbox

5 2018 F80 M3 Jahre Edition

The Jahre Edition was BMW’s way of properly celebrating their iconic M3. Only 500 units were made, with 150 models going to the United States. This model was available with a manual or dual-clutch transmission, and it's currently worth around $65,000.

This special M3 version combined the features of the competition package and some exclusive stylish details like the Full Merino Leather in Fjord Blue and Black. This model also featured high gloss shadow line rear M3 designation, kidney frame, and a sports exhaust system.

4 2005 E46 M3 Competition

The M3 Competition was the ideal car for the enthusiasts who had always wanted the CSL. This package had unique 19-inch wheels, an Alcantara steering wheel, and it borrowed some CSL lightweight components. The competition package included a software upgrade with a less intrusive M Track DSC mode.

During its launch, the competition package was a $4,000 option. Nowadays, you will find used models starting at around $17,000, which still makes them performance car bargains. Besides, you can find newer M3 models for the price of this M3 Competition.

Related: Ranking The 10 Best BMW "M" Models To Buy Used

3 2011 E90 M3

The 2011 M3 was the perfect all-around car for enthusiasts. It could handle all your track day shenanigans and be ideal for your daily commutes. Besides, it would do all this with aplomb. This M3 had a sublime, high revving V8 with a pleasant ride and otherworldly handling.

Its 414 hp engine was capable of 4.6 seconds 0 to 60 mph runs. This was and still is the sports car for people who want the anonymity and practicality of a regular sedan. Nowadays, you can purchase a decent-condition E90 M3 for $25,000. A bargain, even though most M3s will have high mileage.

2 2016 F80 M3

The 2016 M3 featured a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine with an official rating of 425 hp. The look of this M3 strikes an outstanding balance between aggressive and understated. This generation of M3 also had upgraded fender flares, bumper panels, and wheels.

Nowadays, you can get the base version for around $39,000 with unique features like an exposed carbon-fiber roof and carbon-ceramic brakes. This is a viable M3 that drives great and looks fantastic for the price. The exhaust note also is excellent, with a deep growl.

1 2018 F80 M3 CS

The 2018 CS is one car that will leave you wanting more. If you are looking for the perfect M3 to purchase, this is it. Starting at around $50,000, the CS has everything you would like in a performance sedan with 453 hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine.

This sedan has power on tap at all times, and it delivers it with mischievous eagerness. There is no turbo lag, and its relentless engine revs up to 7,600 rpm. The exhaust is also louder than the standard M3, but it will vary depending on the selected driving mode.