The Greatest BMW Sports Cars of All Time

What Makes It Special

It's a bold assertion, but we have yet to come across a more remarkable confluence of traditional style and contemporary performance than the third-generation M3, also known as the E46. The M3 E46, which debuted in 1999, took its cues from the E36 model of the previous generation but made significant advancements in power, performance, and technology.

With its separate throttle bodies and considerable improvements, the 3.2-liter S54 engine (tilted 30 degrees to fit) was a masterpiece of high-revving, naturally aspirated engineering. The engine drove the rear wheels through a second-generation SMG automated manual transmission or an innovative variable M differential. Total output reached 343 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.

The E46 maintains a straightforward demeanor while adding enough visual muscle to stand out as something exceptional. This is accomplished by adding a slight 20-mm flare to the wheel arches, a discrete power bulge in the aluminum bonnet, and four stubby exhausts beneath the rear bumper. And the appeal of this combo has remained strong in the past twenty years since it first appeared.

What Makes It Special

In the 1990s, BMW realized that the imminent globalization of the automobile industry required a fresh approach to remain competitive with its rival brands, specifically its long-time rival, Mercedes-Benz. As such, it set out to revamp its acclaimed 850i/Ci by commissioning BMW Motorsport to produce an even more powerful variant.

On paper, BMW engineers had done everything to restore the honor lost in their first installment of the 8 Series. Then there's the monstrous V12 with two valves per cylinder and very advanced engine management with electronic injection from Bosch Motronic. For the CSi, the engine underwent a steroid treatment from a 5.0-liter to almost 5.6 liters, reaching a not-too-shabby 380 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.

The 850 CSi could go from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds, while the top speed was limited to 155 mph. Another subtle detail that hinted at the intentions of the 850 CSi was the fact that this model was only offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox, so there were no concessions for conformist drivers.

What Makes It Special

Built over four decades ago as a special homologation for the European Touring Car Championship, many still consider the CSL a significant icon within the auto industry today, thanks notably to its impressively lightweight and marvelous three-liter engine.

What makes this car truly phenomenal? One can hardly ignore its outstanding attributes, like its astonishingly lightweight construction and aggressive aerodynamic features, which provide stability at mind-boggling speeds. The elongated body design and striking spoilers earned it one of the most iconic nicknames—Batmobile—across racing circuits worldwide, capturing hearts instantly with immense popularity remaining intact over four decades later.

The CSL had a Bosch fuel injection system that produced 206 horsepower. In addition, a six-cylinder engine was set as the standard across all E9 series innovations. In 1973, displacement increased from the initial 2,985 cm3 offering to its maximum size of 3,153 cm3. Known for exceptional manual transmission performance, the highest recorded speed attained while accelerating in fourth gear clocked in at an impressive 137 mph.

What Makes It Special

Among many enthusiasts, there is no debate about the unmatched appeal of the first-ever M3 vehicle designed exclusively for Group A homologation purposes. Regarding technical superiority and performance standards, its engineering justifies its legendary reputation.

Introduced in 1986 with the revolutionary 'S14,' a compact yet hardy four-cylinder powerplant boasting shared construction parts from an M10 block combined with a four-valve head transplanted from the S38 straight-six of an M5,

The engine pairs with a dogleg five-speed manual gearbox, providing an output of 200 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque in early models, progressing up to 215 horses in Cecotto and Ravaglia specialty editions.

In contrast, the final SportEvolution variant offers a maximum power output of 238 hp thanks to the enhanced displacement of up to 2.5 liters and other mechanical changes implemented by BMW's engineers. The car can speed from a standstill to 60mph in 6.7 seconds, while its top speed is 140mph.

What Makes It Special

Discovering the BMW i8 is a journey no car fanatic should miss. While not quite meeting the legendary expectations some have set after experiencing the ultimate driving machines of generations past, the i8’s power plant system is undeniably impressive, utilizing advanced technological features that display seamless integration systems.

The hybrid powertrain comprised a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder engine with a hybrid synchronous motor and lithium-ion battery pack, producing over 369 hp and beyond 420 lb-ft of torque.

While it may lack the appeal of soulful thrumming engines longed for by enthusiasts worldwide or lose some grip on corners due to narrow tires, driving the i8 is an exciting experience thanks to its impressively executed body balance control.

Plowing ahead through all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid technology, this supercar features a six-speed automatic transmission for the rear wheels and a two-speed automatic transmission for front traction. The i8 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and reach 100 mph in 9.7 seconds.

What Makes It Special

Lauding BMW's vehicles that carry the esteemed M branding can frequently be heard as a hallmark of automotive enthusiasm in many circles. These high-octane models hail from none other than BMW Motorsport itself and are considered by many enthusiasts to be some of their most exciting offerings.

But, of course, within their latest M lineup cars (many of which are currently SUV-focused), there remains one model known for sitting atop this prestigious bunch—enter the BMW M8 Competition.

Boasting superior levels of raw power over any other car in its class and a higher price tag compared to similar models, the BMW M8 Competition lends itself generously to being dubbed a true beacon of excellence among its peers.

The M8 Competition now sports a 4.4-liter V8 TwinPower Turbo engine that harbors a monumental total output of 625 horsepower alongside awe-inspiring torque capabilities of 553 lb-ft. In earlier versions, an alternative engine option offered marginally less equipment and maxed out at producing only 600 hp.

What Makes It Special

Around fifty years ago, as oil prices surged, automotive engineering firm BMW unveiled its sporty new vehicle, the BMW 2002 Turbo, to much public acclaim. While most believed such a fast car would take a backseat amid concerns about rising fuel consumption, the 2002 was a success for BMW.

Nonetheless, what followed took all by surprise as the BMW 2002 Turbo revolutionized exhaust turbocharger technology and set a new era of sports car design in motion. Featuring an M10 inline engine with a 2.0-liter displacement, the 2002 Ti (1968–1972) churned out up to 120 horsepower. Meanwhile, later models, such as the 2002 Tii (1971–1975), provided even more power: up to 130 hp with Kugelfischer intake manifold fuel injection.

However, it was the Kühnle Kopp und Kausch turbocharger—known in abbreviated form as "KKK"—that delivered an unprecedented surge in horsepower and torque, bringing total output to a staggering 170 hp and 240 Nm. Indeed, few would have predicted that this car could emerge as such a force within its industry, let alone become a leader for future combustion engine models. Yet more than four decades later, we can see how BMW foretold future developments through its astute engineering prowess.

What Makes It Special

A car that has earned itself a lasting place in automotive history is the classic roadster known as the BMW 507. This stunning beauty debuted in 1956 and remains popular due to its rare elegance. Every line of this car accentuates its design.

From every sweeping curve on that perfectly proportioned body down to that great, long hood, there's nothing quite like it. Its front grill, side vents, and delicate chrome accents enhance this vehicle's visual allure even more; owning one is all about prestige. But then again, what you get inside is equally worthy of attention.

A layered focus on driver comfort has skillfully combined finely crafted leather upholstery alongside polished wooden accents with ergonomic controls. Hence, the cabin atmosphere exudes refinement and luxury while behind the wheel. Underneath that beautiful exterior beauty lies its V8 engine, boasting perfect power-to-weight balance and making for agile driving experiences.

The BMW 507 This car represents BMW's outstanding craftsmanship and commitment to sophisticated performance. Creating exceptional cars that perform at world-class levels while capturing enthusiasts' imaginations through sheer beauty.

What Makes It Special

In the mid-seventies, BMW and Lamborghini teamed up to create a fantastic car. BMW wanted to create a new model to enter FIA Group 5 racing, and regulations required 400 vehicles to be sold to customers for road use. Lamborghini was already known for their wicked mid-engined sports cars, as they had wowed the world a decade earlier with their legendary Miura.

Paul Bracq's 1972 concept car, the Turbo, inspired BMW's quest to create a homologated competition vehicle. The Turbo's sleek and futuristic look influenced the car Giorgetto Giugiario was about to create. Unfortunately, Lamborghini had to back out of the project due to financial troubles. Still, BMW Motorsport stepped in to build the chassis, suspensions, and other vital parts as they were determined to bring this beast to life.

BMW had a 3.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine from their 6 and 7 Series sedans, and although it was a solid power plant, it needed a serious boost to match the car's ambitions. That's where the genius minds at the Motorsport division came in. They returned to the drawing board and transformed the engine to unleash its true potential, making an impressive 277 horsepower, 243 lb-ft of torque, and a top speed of 165 mph.