Used BMW M3 for Sale by Owner

1995 BMW M3

2D Coupe

115,034 miles

Port Matilda, PA

$22,755

El

1988 BMW M3

2D Sedan

148,000 miles

Bloomfield Twp, MI

$85,000

KN

2002 BMW M3

2D Convertib

43,000 miles

Midlothian, IL

$45,000

GR
Owner Verified

2004 BMW M3

2D Convertib

69,000 miles

Orlando, FL

$22,000

TE
Owner Verified

About the BMW M3

The BMW M3 is a high-performance sports sedan that has carved out a legendary reputation among driving enthusiasts worldwide. Born from BMW’s motorsports division in 1986, the M3 takes the already capable 3 Series and transforms it into an exhilarating machine bred for the racetrack or the street.

With its high-revving inline-six engine, the M3 delivers blistering acceleration and an unmistakable exhaust note that stirs the soul. But the M3 is more than just straight-line speed—it’s a precision instrument made to conquer the most demanding roads and racetracks. Its finely tuned chassis, featuring sophisticated suspension components and massive brakes, provides exceptional handling prowess and control.

Step inside, and be greeted by an interior that blends sport and luxury. From the heavily bolstered seats to a driver-focused cockpit, every detail reinforces the M3’s performance pedigree.

Whether carving up a twisty mountain road or attacking the circuit, the BMW M3 delivers an uncompromising driving experience that few other sport sedans match. Over its 35+ year history, the M3 has continued to evolve and push the boundaries of what a performance sedan can be.

BMW M3 Sedan

Born from BMW’s legendary M division, the BMW M3 Sedan takes the already potent 3 Series and elevates it to a new level of exhilarating performance.

At its heart beats a ferocious 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine, producing 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission, the M3 Sedan’s powertrain delivers blistering acceleration, making it capable of sprinting from 0–60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.

The M3 Sedan’s standard features include:

  • Track-ready cooling system
  • Manual transmission
  • M-tuned electric power steering with Servotronic
  • M drive and M driving dynamics control
  • Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers
  • M Compound 4-wheel ventilated anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) with dynamic brake control (DBC)
  • Dynamic stability control (DCS), including brake fade compensation, start-off assistant, brake drying, and brake stand-by features with M dynamic mode
  • Double-joint spring strut front suspension
  • Five-link rear axle
  • M sport differential
  • 18″/19″ M double-spoke orbit gray wheels, style 824M, with performance non-run-flat tires
  • Power-folding, heated side mirrors
  • Shadowline exterior trim
  • Sport exhaust system with quad tailpipes and chrome-plated exhaust tips
  • Lightweight trunk lid with integrated lip spoiler
  • Kidney grille with twin slats and model designation badge
  • Aerodynamically optimized double-arm side mirrors
  • Extended Merino leather
  • Anthracite headliner
  • M door-sill finishers, M footrest, M gear shift lever, and other M-specific design elements
  • aluminum rhombicle anthracite trim
  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
  • BMW ConnectedDrive® Services
  • BMW TeleServices
  • Connected package with real-time traffic information and on-street parking information, hazard preview, BMW remote services including stolen vehicle recovery, remote door unlock, and my BMW app.
  • Harman Kardon® surround sound audio system with 464-watt amplifier and 16 speakers
  • 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function M sport steering wheel with controls for audio system, cruise control, and Bluetooth® wireless communication for hands-free mobile phone
  • Dynamic cruise control
  • Tire Pressure Monitor
  • Rear-window defroster
  • BMW curved display with configurable 12.3″ instrument cluster and 14.9″ central information display
  • iDrive 8 operating system operated by voice, touchscreen, or iDrive touchpad controller
  • Cloud-based navigation system and multiple over-the-air (OTA) updates for map data
  • Driver’s and passenger’s front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology
  • Active knee protection
  • Front-seat side-impact airbags
  • Front safety belts with automatic pretensioners
  • Acoustic safety-belt warning
  • LATCH attachment for child-restraint safety installation
  • LED Headlights
  • Automatic-locking retractors (ALR) on all passenger-seat safety belts (for installation of child-restraint seats)
  • Programmable LED daytime running lights
  • Anti-theft alarm system
  • Impact sensors, automatically unlocks doors, and turns on hazard and interior lights
  • Rear-view camera
  • Park distance control
  • Active driving assistant includes frontal collision warning, active blind spot detection, lane departure warning, speed limit info
  • BMW assist ecall™ includes emergency request (SOS button) and enhanced automatic collision notification
  • Mobility kit
  • Automatic high beams
  • Active protection system detects imminent accidents
  • Automatic-dimming interior rear-view mirror and driver’s-side exterior mirror
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers with adjustable speed and automatic headlight control

*Features indicated for the 2024 model year for all trims.

A used M3 Sedan usually sells for $24k to $76k, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

BMW M3 Competition

The M3 Competition is BMW’s high-performance, track-ready trim.

It is powered by the same 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine, producing a monstrous 503 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. It is equipped with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with DriveLogic, sport and manual shift modes, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and launch control.

Here are features unique to the M3 Competition:

  • Track-ready cooling system
  • 19″ x 9.5″ front, 20″ x 10.5″ rear double-spoke, bi-color wheels, style 826M
  • High-gloss black exterior trim accents
  • Rear spoiler
  • Exclusive 19″/20″ M forged wheels with high-performance tires
  • M Carbon bucket seats
  • Exclusive interior trim accents

A used Competition usually sells for $76k to $86k, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

BMW M3 Competition xDrive

The M3 Competition xDrive is the pinnacle of the M3 lineup, combining blistering performance with enhanced all-weather capability. It is powered by the same 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo I6 engine as the M3 Competition, producing 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque.

The xDrive sets itself apart by sending power to an intelligent M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This allows the M3 Competition xDrive to rocket from 0-60 mph in an even quicker 3.4 seconds compared to 3.8 seconds for the rear-wheel-drive Competition. The xDrive system provides superior traction and launch capabilities in all weather conditions.

Other upgrades include:

  • Larger 275/35 front and 285/30 rear performance tires on staggered 19″/20″ M forged wheels
  • A higher electronically-limited top speed of 180 mph
  • Slightly increased curb weight of 3,990 lbs due to the AWD components

But it retains the same precision-engineered chassis, brakes, aerodynamics and driver-focused interior as the other M3 variants.

A used Competition xDrive usually sells for $76k to $107k, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

BMW M3 Drivetrain and Powertrain

All M3 trims are available in all-wheel drive (AWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD).

In its first iteration in the late 1980s, the M3 was powered by a 2.3L 16V four-cylinder producing 192 hp. Over the years, the M3’s engine displacement grew, with the 3.2L inline-six producing 333 hp in the E46 model from 2000-2006.

The E92 M3 from 2007-2013 was powered by a 4.0L V8 developing 400 hp, while the F80 M3 from 2014-2021 utilized a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six producing 425 hp.

The current M3 model, the G80 M3, is powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six producing 480 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. This compact power plant allows the M3 to sprint from 0-60 in around 3.8 seconds, while still delivering a thrilling driving experience thanks to its compact dimensions and precise handling.

Used BMW M3 Prices

You can sometimes find a high-mileage BMW M3 for as low as $24K, but most go for $86K up to as much as $107K or even more. Age, condition, mileage, and amenities determine the market value for any individual Range Rover. Here are some rough averages for different Range Rover trims.

  • BMW M3 Sedan: $24k to $76k
  • BMW M3 Competition: $76k to $86k
  • BMW M3 Competition xDrive: $77k to $107k

Buy Your Next Car on PrivateAuto

You’ll love how intuitive and secure the car-buying process is when you use the PrivateAuto mobile app.

  1. We’re the #1 website to find cars for sale by owner. We have 100% private-party cars for sale so you won’t be drowning in dealership listings.
  2. Browse listings with clean history reports, service records, and all relevant documentation.
  3. We use technological solutions for every stage of the deal. You get security, speed, and convenience without paying crazy fees.
  4. Pay for your car instantly, with no fees. PrivateAuto Pay offers Venmo-like immediacy and convenience—without Venmo’s transaction limits. It’s the only way to instantly, safely, and conveniently transfer more than $5,000 in the USA.

You can filter PrivateAuto’s pre-owned BMW M3 for sale in your area to see what owners are asking for. Then, with our innovative offer feature, you can make an offer that works for your budget, sit back, and see if it gets accepted!

“PrivateAuto takes the stress out of private car sales!” — Gage Dietrich (Google reviewer, five stars)

BMW M3 FAQ

Which year is the most reliable M3?

The most reliable BMW M3 is the 2011–2018 F80. It is praised for its performance and simple maintenance.

While BMWs are more expensive to maintain than many other makes, the M3 F80 offers good reliability for high-performance vehicles, especially a lower mileage 2011.75 model year.

Here is why older BMW M3 models tend to be expensive:

1. Desirability and collectibility: the M3 has been BMW’s iconic performance sedan for decades. Early generations, especially the E30 (1986–1991) and E36 (1992–1999) M3 models, have become highly coveted by enthusiasts and collectors for their pure driving experience and motorsport heritage. As collectible modern classics, demand often outstrips supply.
2. Limited production numbers: fewer M3s were produced than standard BMW 3 series sedans. Their exclusivity adds to their appeal and value.
3. Build quality and longevity: BMWs, particularly the M series, are renowned for their robust build quality and high-mileage potential. Increasing demand keeps pricing high.
4. Rising prices of new M3s: the high price of new M3 models makes well-maintained older models more appealing.

The prices for older BMW M3s vary significantly based on features, condition, mileage, rarity, and demand from collectors and enthusiasts.

Here are some key points about pricing for older M3 generations:

– E30 M3 (1986-1991): $60,000 to $100,000
– E36 M3 (1992-1999): $15,000 to $30,000
– E46 M3 (2000-2006): $15,000 to $40,000

Kelley Blue Book lists the fair purchase price for a 1995 M3 coupe at around $8,700 on average.

As with any luxury European vehicle, M3 maintenance costs a lot more than you’d pay to maintain a lower-market car.

– The average annual maintenance cost for a BMW M3 is much higher than regular vehicles.
– Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire replacements, and brake work are more expensive for the M3.
– If any major repairs are required, the costs can easily cost thousands of dollars.

While the base BMW M3 comes standard with rear-wheel drive, it utilizes the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine as the all-wheel drive Competition and CS models.

The BMW M3 comes in 3 different sedan models:

1. M3 Sedan
2. M3 Competition Sedan
3. M3 Competition xDrive Sedan (all-wheel-drive version)

BMW M3 requires premium 91-octane gasoline.

The average price for a used 2021 BMW M3 is around $71,388.

The BMW M3 model that was equipped with a 420-horsepower V8 engine is the E92 generation M3, produced from 2007 to 2013.

The 2024 M3 comes in the following colors:

– Alpine White
– Sao Paulo Yellow
– Black Sapphire
– Portimao Blue
– Individual Dravit Gray
– Toronto Red
– Tanzanite Blue II
– Isle of Man Green
– Brooklyn Gray Metallic
– Sunset Orange Metallic

The current generation of BMW’s high-performance M3 model is a 4-door sedan.

Browse Other Popular Cars

These are some of our most popular used cars for sale by owner.

Essential Resources for Used Car Transactions

Useful guides for getting your next private-party car purchase done.

How to Buy a Used Car in Every State

Avoid dealer fees and markup when you buy directly from a private seller. The following guides will help you navigate the process correctly in your state. Click on the appropriate link for state-specific instructions.

Sell Your Used Car

Looking to sell your used car? Click the link for your state to learn how easy it can be with PrivateAuto.

Landon Epperly

Contributing Author

Landon Epperly is the Product Manager at PrivateAuto, where he thrives on turning innovative ideas into reality. With a deep passion for cars and boats, Landon combines his love for vehicles with his expertise in product development to enhance the online marketplace experience….