Best sports car over $80,000

The BMW M3 is a thoroughbred rear-wheel-drive, luxury sporting coupe. It brings race car-style technology to a road car, with an alloy bonnet and carbon fibre roof to lower the centre of gravity and help minimise weight, while an almost perfect 50/50 weight distribution front-to-rear provides superbly balanced handling.

The car’s surefootedness and cornering ability are outstanding. Yes, the ride of the special M-tuned suspension is on the firm side, but it is certainly not harsh, or uncomfortable.

M3’s stunning performance is delivered by a technically sophisticated, extremely high-revving, 4.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, which develops an impressive 309 kW of power at 8300 rpm and maximum torque of 400 Nm at 3900 rpm.

A standard, slick-changing six-speed manual, or optional auto-shifting, seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic, in combination with a variable M-differential lock and massive rear tyres, puts the power to the road.

As well as its outstanding sporting prowess, the M3 displays all the elegance and style found in other top-line prestige BMW offerings. Build quality is first class and it’s loaded with highly desirable standard features and safety equipment.

The cabin has been expertly tailored to deliver a premium level of luxury. It has a user-friendly presentation, and snug, well shaped sports seats provide plenty of comfort and support.