2003 BMW M3 Base

This is the M3, BMW's high-performance coupe and convertible of the early 2000s, the one enthusiasts still talk about. It's a driver's car through and through, with razor-sharp steering and a chassis that makes you want to find the nearest empty road. The cabin is snug but well-built, with supportive seats and a simple, driver-focused layout that hasn't aged badly. Reliability is the catch; owners love the way it drives but warn about cooling system and electrical issues as the miles pile up. The 3.2L I6 revs eagerly to 8,000 rpm, and the six-speed automatic shifts quickly enough to keep the engine on the boil. With the roof up it's quiet enough for a road trip at 80 mph, but you'll pay at the pump with 17 mpg combined.