E46 BMW M3: 2000-2006

Like the E36 before it, the E46 M3 ditched the obvious signs that it was a performance monster. Apart from the slight hint of madness from the beefed-up wheel arches (meant to contain its widened tack) and the hood bulge, it looks a hell of a lot like the regular 3-Series coupe and convertible. The new generation also held onto its inline-six engine, but displacement increased to 3.2 liters and power was increased to a whopping 333 horses. The E46 surpasses the E36 in refinement and comfort, offering improved power and an upscaled interior, despite a less driver-focused center stack. Rather than a typical automatic, the E46 generation was offered with a somewhat rough SMG transmission that used an electrohydraulic actuated clutch. A standard manual was also offered. Compared to other iterations of the M3, the E46 is perhaps the best blend of track-focused handling and power with modest luxury. The downsides? Well, it won’t be the easiest car to maintain if you pick one up secondhand — but then again, it’s worth it.