The BMW M3 E46 Coupé took the hearts of real sports car fans by storm when it launched in 2000.
With a low weight construction and the high-rev concept of its inline 6-cylinder engine, for many it embodied a return to the virtues of the iconic BMW M3 E30.
The following year, a convertible followed, combining a sporty experience and the luxury of open-top driving in an unprecedented way.
While very fast while driving hard, SMGs had a tendency to be lurchy and jerky at low speeds, so most enthusiasts prefer the six-speed manual.