Every BMW enthusiast has an answer to this question, and the answers say a lot about what we love in cars. Some people dream of a high-revving naturally aspirated engine, others of a comfortable super saloon or a lightweight special edition. Tell us which M car you would choose if you could have any of them, and why.
A quick tour of the eras
To start the discussion, here is a short overview of the main eras of BMW M cars:
- The early years: the M1 supercar and the first M5 and M3 established the idea of a fast, usable BMW with motorsport roots. The E30 M3 became a racing legend.
- The naturally aspirated golden age: cars such as the E46 M3 with its straight-six, the E39 M5 with its V8 and the E60 M5 with its V10 are loved for their engines and sound.
- The turbocharged era: from the F10 M5 and F80 M3 onwards, turbo engines brought huge torque and performance, along with new technology.
- The modern era: today's M cars offer xDrive, advanced chassis systems and, in some models, hybrid technology, with performance that would have seemed impossible a few decades ago.
Each era has its fans, and there is no wrong answer.
What to include in your reply
To make the discussion interesting, tell us:
- Your choice and the exact generation.
- Why you chose it: the engine, the design, the driving feel, the history or a personal memory.
- How you would use it: daily driving, weekends, track days or as a collector's car.
- Your second choice, if you cannot decide.
If you already own your favourite, tell us how ownership compares with your expectations.
Practical thinking welcome
Dream choices are great, but practical answers are useful too. Which M car would you choose with a realistic budget, for daily use or for your first track days? These answers often help members who are planning to buy their first M car.
Keep it friendly
Opinions about cars can be strong. Share yours with enthusiasm and respect other choices. A member who prefers a modern turbocharged car and a member who only wants a classic naturally aspirated engine can both be right.
We are looking forward to your picks. Reply below and tell us your favourite BMW M car.