BMW
M3
Owner report available
BMW
M4
Owner report available
BMW M3 vs BMW M4
Specs side by side
What owners say
M3
Overall
Sentiment is highly polarized and varies significantly by generation. For the current G80 generation (2021+), owner feedback is extremely positive regarding performance, engine reliability (S58), and daily driving capability, with many calling it the best car they've ever owned. However, this generation is also the subject of intense and very frequent criticism for its controversial front-end styling, specifically the large kidney grille design, which many find "hideous" or "ugly." For the previous F80 generation (2014-2018), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners praising its driving dynamics, DCT transmission, reliability as a daily driver, and timeless looks.
Best version to buy
For the F80 generation (2014-2018), the 2016+ model years are highlighted due to an upgraded crank hub friction plate from the factory, which addresses a known concern. A manual transmission is highly desired for engagement, though the DCT is also praised.
Known issues
- Controversial Styling (G80 Generation): Very frequent and intense criticism of the large kidney grille and front-end design, described as "hideous," "ugly," and incongruous with the rear of the car. Frequency: very frequent.
- SMG Transmission Reliability & Driveability (E46 Generation): The Sequential Manual Gearbox is cited as a major failure point and the primary element that ages the car, with poor shift quality and reliability concerns.
- Crank Hub Concern (F80 Generation): Potential for the crank hub to spin on the S55 engine, though widely reported in owner discussions as an overblown issue affecting far less than 1% of vehicles, predominantly those that are heavily tuned…
M4
Overall
Extremely positive sentiment among owners, characterized by high satisfaction with performance, daily drivability, and emotional fulfillment. The M4 is consistently described as a "dream car" that delivers a thrilling, occasion-like driving experience. Owners of the current G82 generation (2021+) praise its all-around capability as a perfect daily driver that is "quick enough to do everything, but also super comfortable," with a smooth ride and impressive technology.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Strong appreciation is expressed for both the F82 (2015-2020) and G82 (2021+) generations.
Known issues
- High Cost of Ownership: Very frequent warnings about expensive routine maintenance (tires, brakes) and major repairs (turbos) on used, high-mileage examples. Budgeting thousands annually is emphasized. Frequency: very frequent.
- Carbon Bucket Seat Drawbacks: Recurrent mentions of being a "pain to live with," including difficulty entering/exiting, wear on bolsters, and compromised comfort for some passengers on long trips. Frequency: recurrent.
- Risk of Purchasing Modified Used Vehicles: Recurrent strong advice against buying modified M4s due to unknown build quality, potential hidden damage from aggressive tuning, and the likelihood that the car was driven hard.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW M3 or the BMW M4?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the BMW M3 and the BMW M4. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the BMW M3 or the BMW M4?
The BMW M3 seats more passengers than the BMW M4 on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the BMW M3 is classed as a Station wagon, the BMW M4 as a Coupe.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW M3 or the BMW M4?
The EPA rates the 2027 BMW M3 at 18–19 mpg combined and the 2027 BMW M4 at 18–19 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW M3 or the BMW M4?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.