The BMW M3 has soared to great heights since its inception back in the late ‘90s. The E30 instilled a lot of drama as enthusiasts were raving about the new DTM entrant. Fast forward a few generations, and we’re at the G80 M3. While the latest M3 is more powerful than ever, it’s also rather expensive. Especially the spicier Competition version.

Fret not, fellow enthusiasts, for the used market is worth having a look at. Although, given the inflated prices, it isn’t the best place at the moment. But, skimming over some of the listings gives us a fair idea of the M3's values and residuals. If you fancy owning an older model, why not have a look at the 2018 BMW M3. Although based on the slightly older F80 platform, it’s still one hell of a car.

Plus, those who haven’t yet gotten accustomed to BMW’s latest design ethos should find this one more appealing. Also, it happens to be an LCI model, which comes with updated LED lights and improved connectivity features. With all that aside, let’s talk about values.

At the time of this writing, the asking price of a 2018 BMW M3 lies between $58,000 and $69,700. However, it very much depends on factors like mileage, condition, and the number of previous owners.

BMW M3: The Backstory

1990 BMW M3 Sport Evolution
Via classicdriver.com

The E30 M3 made quite the impression on enthusiasts as the piece of engineering that had very little in terms of parts shared with the 3-series it was based on. It’s relatively easy to create a hit but to replicate the success is often the hardest. But when BMW introduced the E36 M3, fans were delighted as it did everything a notch better than the E30 and turned out to be more refined as well.

The E46 M3 set the benchmarks even higher and turned out to be one of the wildest, and most revered M3s to date. Next came the E90 generation M3, which saw sub-models in the form of the E92 coupe and E93 Convertible, wherein the E90 was strictly a sedan.

E46 Generation BMW M3 CSL
Via pinterest.com

This form of distinct internal designation based on body style was the first for a BMW M car. Then came the F80 M3s and M4s with more power and sophistication, which subsequently got replaced by the G80 generation M3s with the largest set of kidney grilles ever on a BMW.

The F80 was the first generation to see a split with distinct model names since the M3 was only available as a 4-door sedan while the M4 fulfilled Coupe and Convertible duties. The move to split the lineup is still a hot debate as there is no concrete reason why BMW decided to do it. Fanboys, however, have their fair share of opinions.

RELATED: Here Are The Coolest Mods For A BMW M3 E46

2018 BMW M3 Is A True Driver’s Car

Via: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Let’s talk about what makes the M3 a sensation. Firstly, it involves the engine. Internally called the S58, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six is a masterpiece and comes in different states of tune.

You get 425 horsepower in the standard M3 and 444 horsepower in the M3 Competition. However, the M3 CS (Club Sport) gets 453 horsepower from its twin-turbo straight-six. Torque stands at a healthy 406 lb-ft for the M3 and M3 Competition, while the CS gets 443 lb-ft of twist.

Transmission options on offer include a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 6-speed manual. You can choose between RWD and AWD, dubbed BMW xDrive, however, proper enthusiasts prefer the rear-wheel-drive with a manual gearbox.

via netcarshow.com

One of the defining features of an M3 is its driving dynamics. BMW’s tagline for the Ultimate Driving Machine was always the ethos behind every M product. The F80 wasn’t as analog as the E92 since it had more electronics than its predecessor.

However, BMW’s M division was keen on tweaking the dynamics and helped build yet another sensational driver’s car. Because the F80 was technologically advanced and more powerful, BMW had to beef up the chassis to help keep the car planted and responsive.

RELATED: Here’s How The Mercedes C63 AMG Compares With The BMW M3

2018 BMW M3: “Life Cycle Impulse” Made it Better

BMW F80 Generation M3 CS
Via drivemag.com

You might’ve seen the term LCI, aka Life Cycle Impulse, getting thrown around the community. Well, that’s just BMW’s way of saying a mid-cycle refresh. Nothing more.

BMW introduced the M3 LCI in 2017, and the car remained basically the same until the G80 was launched. As part of the LCI upgrade, the 2017 BMW M3 got restyled front and rear lights that are now more aggressive than before. The headlights, in particular, make the M3's front end more angular. As for the rear set of lights, although different, doesn’t feel as significant of an upgrade as it does up front.

Also, the infotainment gets a minor upgrade in the form of better smartphone connectivity. Aside from these, there isn’t much of a difference when compared to a pre-facelift M3.

Sources: Carfax, Carbuzz, Motortrend, YouTube