The BMW M3 E90 is truly a luxurious car that has captured the hearts of many. Enthusiasts of Bavarian vehicles worldwide have truly appreciated this model. Especially the latest generation, known as M-Power. It is a high-performance machine built on a standard platform.
Production started in 2005, with a facelift shortly after. The car rolled off the assembly line practically unchanged until 2013. To this day, many cars of this series can be seen on the roads, indicating their popularity among motorists.
Exterior Features
The appearance of the BMW M3 E90 is incomparable, even within its class. Its distinctive features include the iconic kidney grille and «angel eyes» typical of Bavarian cars.
Designers paid attention to the width of the car — the front looks imposing and massive, even aggressive compared to its predecessors. The lower part of the front bumper features a large grille resembling a goblet. Perhaps it is this grille that gives the car a sporty look.
Small plastic protrusions and air intakes are also added to the design, along with air vents at the corners of the bumper. Just above the fog lights are rectangular optics with rounded corners. And between the headlights is the classic dual-section grille.
Comparing the M3 E90 with the standard model, the muscular hood and very wide wheel arches stand out. Even when the car is stationary, it seems as though it is forcefully pressed to the asphalt.
Beautiful, intricately designed side mirrors, reminiscent of fins, and wheel rims with perforations only emphasize its aggressiveness. M-Series style sills, a small spoiler, and a tightly fitted rear end all indicate that this is no ordinary means of transportation.
Yet, the body style sparked much debate at the time. Some claimed that the taillights ruined the exterior, while others praised them as a beautiful and original design element. Compared to its predecessors, the E90 has a slightly smaller trunk, but it is still suitable for use as a family car.
Interior Features of the BMW M3 E90
Minimalism is the ideal style for the interior of this car. The unique driving experience is enhanced by the absence of complex controls. No aluminum or wood trim — luxury in the cabin is not necessary. Instead, expensive and high-quality materials are used.
It looks modest, yet expensive and tasteful. This is how the design of the M3 E90 can be described. The three-spoke steering wheel has few buttons, making them easy to operate. The instrument panel is simple and functional.
The tachometer and speedometer are in large wells that adjoin the other instruments. Between them is the onboard computer, which displays all the necessary information — fuel level, engine temperature, ambient temperature, and many other parameters.
On the center console sits a huge multimedia complex, all covered with a plastic visor. Therefore, even in sunny weather, all indicators are easily readable.
Slightly below the multimedia complex is the climate and audio control unit. There is a small knob on the tunnel between the front seats, which can also be used to control the audio system.
It is worth noting that the most expensive configuration of the BMW M3 E90 does not differ visually from the base model, just a few additional options are added. The seats on all configurations are very comfortable, of a sporty type. They have a firm filling, making sitting in them comfortable. Plus, excellent side support. The trunk capacity is 460 liters, sufficient for grocery trips.
Engine of the BMW M3 E90
The V8 S65B40 engine is a great asset of this car. This engine is based on the V10 used in the BMW M5. The engine has a displacement of 4 liters and a power output of 420 horsepower. The engine is longitudinally mounted.
The engine is paired with a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission. In the latter case, the acceleration to 100 km/h takes 0.2 seconds less. With the manual, the M3 E90 accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
The maximum speed is 250 km/h, but this is far from the limit. In reality, it is factory-restricted for safety. By removing the limiter, higher speeds can be achieved. The engine runs on 98 octane gasoline, with a city cycle fuel consumption of 17.9 liters per hundred kilometers. On the highway, consumption decreases to 9.2 liters, and in combined mode — 12.4 liters. The fuel tank capacity is 63 liters.
For cars manufactured between 2007—2014, a semi-synthetic 10W-40 SL oil is used. For newer cars released after 2014, it is recommended to use 0W-40 SM oil for cold weather operation.
According to the manufacturer, the total oil volume for the engine is 7 liters, with an additional 1.6 liters required every 1000 km. Oil change intervals are between 7500-15000 km of mileage. During oil changes, it is essential to install all new filtering elements.
Technical Specifications of the BMW M3 E90
Some operational features of the BMW M3 E90 include:
- The presence of a stability control system.
- Removing the speed limiter increases the maximum speed to 280 km/h.
- Turning diameter — 11.7 m.
- Engine capacity of 3999 cubic cm, power output — 420 hp.
- Curb weight — 1680 kg, total weight — 2150 kg.
- Fuel system — distributed injection.
- Compression ratio — 12, cylinder diameter — 92 mm, piston stroke — 75.2 mm.
- Both axles feature ventilated disc brakes with ABS.
- Hydraulic power steering with rack and pinion.
- Rear-wheel drive.
- Coil springs are used on both the front and rear suspensions.
- The body is a sedan, with a five-seat interior and four doors.
- Front track — 1540 mm, rear track — 1539 mm, wheelbase — 4580 mm. Tires are sized 265/40R18.
- Body length — 4580 mm, width — 2005 mm, ground clearance — 130 mm.
Construction Features of the BMW M3 E90
Engineers used a chassis and suspension with optimized mass for all components on the BMW M3 E90. An aluminum frame provides balance in driving. Both the front and rear axles bear equal loads. Several systems are installed on the model, including DSC, ABS, and ASC. The car features lightweight alloy spoke wheels, size R18, with the option to upgrade to R20.
All passengers are protected — not only is the body very strong, but there are also 6 safety airbags. Plus, three-point seat belts for all passengers. Xenon headlights are installed for night trips. Adaptive headlights can be ordered as an additional option.
And most importantly — with such xenon lights, there are no issues with legality or fines, as they are factory-installed and part of the car's design. When driving at night, the light will not blind oncoming vehicles.
Read More: Review and Specifications of BMW M6 E64
Common Issues During Operation
Like any other car, this one can also experience breakdowns. However, on a car that is not brand new, you would have to drive several hundred thousand kilometers before any issues arise. Some problems that owners have encountered include:
- Leaking oil pump gasket. Therefore, it needs to be replaced according to the maintenance schedule.
- Engine whistling noise. This occurs due to corrosion in the ventilation block. Constant lubrication, cleaning of the fan engine, or complete block replacement may be necessary.
- Rarely, front light glass melts. This is caused by incorrect focus adjustment. Therefore, if the car is older than 3 years, it is necessary to double-check all wiring connections to the lighting control unit.
- The leather upholstery of the driver's seat cracks and tears. It is recommended to carefully monitor the leather interior to extend its service life.
- Sometimes the engine starts to run poorly or refuses to start. To prevent this, it is essential to monitor the quality of the gasoline and lubricants.
To avoid problems with the BMW M3 E90, only service the car with trusted specialists. Do not trust repairs to just anyone, as the car has a complex structure. And keep an eye on the oil level, perform timely changes — this is the only way the engine can serve faithfully for many years.
Cost of BMW M3 E90
Finding a clean E90 on the Russian market is unlikely. Instead, you are more likely to find a similar M3 in the E92 body. The price range for the E90 model varies from 1,450,000 to 2,700,000 rubles.
The price depends on the year of manufacture and the condition of the car. Generally, it is purchased for the pleasure that the driver experiences when driving a sports car. Hence, all components and units are pushed to their limits, significantly reducing their lifespan.
