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The fourth-generation BMW M3 is the one with a V8: a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine in the E90 sedan, E92 coupe and E93 convertible. Whether it is the best M3 ever is a matter of priorities, not a settled fact. But its high-revving engine, unusual place in M3 history and M-specific chassis make a strong case for why this generation deserves attention.
Which BMW M3 had a V8?
The fourth-generation M3, produced from 2007 to 2013, was offered in three body styles: E90 sedan, E92 coupe and E93 convertible. BMW says the E92 coupe launched in 2007, with the other versions following. It was the first series-production M3 generation powered by a V8. BMW M’s history of the E90, E92 and E93 covers the generation and its variants.
What engine is in the E92 M3?
The standard car uses the S65B40, a naturally aspirated 3,999 cc V8 developed exclusively for the M3. BMW’s North American launch release lists 414 hp at 8,300 rpm, 295 lb-ft at 3,900 rpm and an 8,400-rpm redline. BMW M’s retrospective gives the engine as 309 kW/420 hp in metric presentation. Those are figures as stated by different BMW sources; the 414-hp figure is from the U.S. launch specification, not a universal market figure. BMW’s 2007 U.S. launch release lists the North American specifications.
Built to rev, not just to make a headline number
The engine’s character comes from its high operating range and throttle response as well as its peak output. BMW specifies a 12.0:1 compression ratio and says 85 percent of peak torque is available across a 6,500-rpm range. Individual throttle valves—one per cylinder—feed the engine, while double-VANOS variable valve timing, ion-current monitoring and a dynamically optimized oil supply are among its other features. BMW described the chassis brief as making the car “faster than its engine,” a design aim rather than independent performance testing.
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Why the V8 is only part of the case
The generation’s appeal is not simply that BMW put eight cylinders in an M3. BMW’s account describes an M-specific chassis, a variable differential lock, compound brakes and a five-link rear axle. Electronic Damper Control was available, rather than standard across every car. The E92 coupe also came with a carbon-fiber roof as standard, which BMW M says helped optimize the center of gravity. These details help explain why the car is remembered as a complete performance package, not just an engine swap.
BMW’s racing record adds useful context: the M3 GT2 won ALMS titles and the Nürburgring 24 Hours. That history reflects the generation’s motorsport identity, but it does not mean every road-car component was a race part. BMW’s production-end account describes the engine’s development and the generation’s chassis and racing history in “Approaching the Checkered Flag” (2013).
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Choosing between the sedan, coupe and convertible
| Version | What distinguishes it | Consider it if |
|---|---|---|
| E90 sedan | Four-door body style; same standard-generation V8. | You want the M3 format with sedan access and practicality. |
| E92 coupe | Two-door coupe; standard carbon-fiber roof. | You prefer the coupe shape and value that distinctive roof detail. |
| E93 convertible | Convertible body style; same standard-generation V8. | Open-air driving is a priority. |
The body styles share the generation’s central engine identity, but they answer different everyday needs. BMW’s cited materials establish their body configurations and the E92’s roof; they do not provide a basis here for claiming a specific weight or handling advantage for one over another.
Manual or M DCT?
Buyers could choose a six-speed manual or a seven-speed M dual-clutch transmission. The choice is about how you want to operate the car: the manual provides a clutch pedal and direct control over shifts, while the DCT offers paddle-operated shifting. Neither is objectively superior for every driver; the right fit depends on whether you value the manual’s involvement or the DCT’s shift operation.
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How the standard M3 differs from the GTS and CRT
BMW also built limited, more specialized derivatives. The M3 GTS had a 4.4-liter engine rated at 450 hp, while the CRT sedan was also rated at 450 hp. They are not simply alternate specifications for every fourth-generation M3: they are distinct limited variants, with the GTS particularly track-focused. If you are comparing cars, identify the exact version before applying the standard 4.0-liter M3’s specifications.
What the historical production figures do—and do not—tell you
In its 2013 production-end release, BMW reported that more than 40,000 M3 coupes, almost 10,000 sedans and just under 16,000 convertibles had been produced at that point. These are manufacturer-reported historical totals, not current counts of surviving cars or evidence of present-day demand. BMW M’s retrospective and the production-end release document the generation’s production period and special models.
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What to check when considering one
Historical specifications do not establish a particular car’s condition, repair needs or value. Review the service records and arrange an inspection by a qualified professional familiar with the vehicle. Also check the exact car’s 17-digit VIN against BMW’s recall and technical-update resource; BMW says covered work is free through a BMW partner, with lookup availability and regional details varying by market. A VIN search does not, by itself, establish the condition of the car or substitute for an inspection. See BMW Group’s recalls and technical updates page.
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