When we put aside the discussion about the kidney grille (*tries extra hard*), the BMW M3 comes out as one of the best sport sedans on the market. It's no wonder why – the M3 comes from a reputable BMW 3 Series that dates way back to 1986. Ever since the first launch, this car has been stealing the hearts of all those looking for quality, fun, and comfort. In 2021, BMW made things even more interesting for prospective buyers.

The 2021 BMW M3 has significantly evolved from the original E30 model, delivering impressive performance and superior design (well, except that little fallout that is not to be mentioned again, ever). It was marked early as one of the best saloon sedans out there, and not without a solid reason. The M3 has much to offer in terms of performance and quality – so much that only a few sedans some close to it.

Can you guess what other sedans compete with the mighty BMW M3? We listed two of the most desirable ones and ran brief comparisons to support your lookout for the best sedan on the market (and for our own fun, of course). Stay with us to learn more about how the BMW M3 compares with the competition.

RELATED: 15 Sports Cars We'd Rather Buy Over A BMW M3

BMW M3

The BMW M3 Competition Sedan.
Via: BMW Group Press

Let's talk a little about our star. The 2021 BMW M3 features a twin-turbo 3-liter inline-six engine with 473-hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. This standard engine option is paired with a rear-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission. The more exciting trim is the Competition because it offers 503-hp, 479 lb-ft of torque, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This trim and the 2022 BMW M3 Competition also come with an all-wheel drive.

The M3 also offers adaptive dampers, an adjustable brake-pedal feel, and much more. It's overall very enjoyable to drive, providing fun and stability at high speeds as well as city cruising. The M3 doesn't fall short in exterior and interior design, either. Sharp on the outside and fully loaded with tech inside, the M3 looks amazing on the road and ensures comfort on long rides. Although the interior gravely resembles the other 3 Series models, it does offer modern features to compensate for some unexciting touchups.

RELATED: Here Are Our Favorite Features Of The 2021 BMW M3

Mercedes-AMG C63

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG C63.
Via: MB USA

It comes as no surprise that Mercedes' sedan competes with the BMW M3. The C63 is an attractive and powerful vehicle that scores high in terms of performance, control, stability, and safety. It's based on the Mercedes-Benz C-class and features a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an output of 496 or 503-hp.

If one compares these specs with the ones of the M3, it's clear that the two sedans come pretty close. In real-time, the C63 is more aggressive on the road with the V8, but the M3 picks up the pace quite well, so there's no huge difference between these two on regular drives. The M3 may even be slightly less rigid on rough pavement.

Where the C63 takes the lead is the luxurious interior (and exterior, for all those who may dislike the M3 kidney grilles so much they opt for another sedan altogether). Again, this could be us telling you our personal preferences, but the C63 looks super attractive inside. There's a plethora of features for drivers to enjoy in this sedan, yet they don't look overwhelming thanks to the premium materials and an intuitive design. Plus, the C63 comes with advanced safety features and stands as one of the safest sedans in its class.

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
Via: Stellantis Media

Last but not least, the prominent Italian brand has a splendid car to offer for competing with the two German sedans. The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio earns its spot on the top-sedan list because of its excellent styling and performance. Although it may lag a little behind the M3 and the C63, the Quadrifoglio is a real refreshment on the market overloaded with German vehicles.

When it comes to specs, the Quadrifoglio packs a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 engine with 505 horsepower, 443 lb-ft of torque, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately, only the rear drive is available.

The Quadrifoglio is highly responsive and incredibly enjoyable to drive, especially daily throughout the city. The handling, the riding comfort, and the responsiveness are the traits that put the Italian sedan right alongside the M3 and C63 (if not even in front). Where the German options take the lead, however, is the reliability.

The Quadrifoglio is known to have quite a few issues in the long run. It's also not blessed with a rich and luxurious interior like the other two sedans. Still, the exterior is another story altogether. The Quadrifoglio looks elegant and powerful from the outside, especially at the front, thanks to the beastly-like headlights and a recognizable Alfa Romeo grille. We dare to say the Italian brand did a much better job in the grille compartment than the BMW.