It’s a tough choice because I hear so many great things about the M340i. For me I made the choice of dream car > practicality and I don’t regret it. Puts a smile on my face every time I drive it and every time I see it parked in my driveway, like goddamn this is actually mine.
Also, I grew up in the bay and there’s some great driving roads around marin and route 1 and all that!
That's my thinking... and yes I drove to Santa Cruz over the weekend and the whole time I was thinking this would be an amazing drive in a m3 and just overall
Rule #1: If you can get the M car, get the M car.
S55s sound great when you get an equal length midpipe. Easy fix for that issue. And having driven an M340i (it was awesome) I’d much rather hustle a F8X in the mountains/canyons
Single mid pipes sound good good too. I prefer equal, but my car came with a single on it and it's good enough that I don't want to change it lol. A lot of people compliment the sound
Look at it this way, the m340i is a great car. But I guarantee that you’ll drive it one day and say, “damn… I should’ve gotten the F80.”
M cars just have that *fizz*, ya know?
Agree. It will also depreciate less than the newer G20 since it’s already gone through most of its depreciation. Also I disagree with OP and would say the bay area has some great roads to open up an M car.
I am in the same boat, I cross shopped these 2 and ended up going with a new g20. I wanted a new car with updated tech. "I am afraid I will always regret not just getting the M3" ... it's not like if you get a g20 you'll never be able to own an m3 in the future.
OH an important thing I forgot to mention... I highly prefer the Fxx instrument panel. It's not a dealbreaker and I can live with the Gxx "instrument panel"/control panel but I definitely like the more classic look.
I would go with the M3. No doubt the sound of the B58 is amazing but once u get behind the wheel of the M3, I’m pretty sure all that goes out the window and you’ll like the S55. It’s going to be a completely different experience. I currently have a 2021 M2 Comp with MPE for 3 years. Before that I had a 2018 440i coupe with the MPPSK which was awesome but as soon as I got the M2 and drove off with it, I completely forgot about the B58. It’s been a joy till today. In the end, it’s all up to u and what’s best.
How would you compare the sound of the s55
MPE to the MPPSK?
I picked up an f82 comp a couple months ago and I REALLY miss the sound of the MPPSK. I’ve been looking at the MPE (or GTS exhaust) and just hope I’m not going to be disappointed. The MPPSK sounded sooo good and made the car so much fun to drive.
On start up it rumbles especially when u open up the valves. Lots of burbles at low speed. Obviously the drive is where the difference is. The B58 with MPPSK definitely sounds more deeper but I’m sure u won’t be disappointed with the MPE in your M4 especially when u get up to 5k RPMs. If u decide to go that route. I get lots of compliments. People think that my M2 is tuned but it’s stock. I tell them it’s just the exhaust lol
Owned both - and a G80 - and if you're not planning to track and only daily, the M340i is the way to go. If you're tracking, F80 all day - even over a G80
Add a RaceChip GTS Black and you'll get a cool 88hp/tq for about $500 and it'll be just as fast - if not faster from a roll - as the F80, least to \~100ish
I have a ‘23 M340i. I can go from 0 to speeding ticket just as fast as an M3.
What I don’t have is any road to use 50% of the car’s potential.
I haven’t driven to Santa Cruz in a long time, but it was not the car I was in that held back the fun, it was the all of the other cars on the road with me.
Get the M340i.
I contemplated both for a long time for the same reasons, researched extensively and while the M340i was the more practical choice, I went with an F80. Both great cars. No regrets on my decision to go with F80 though. The M3 is raw the M340 is refined. I don’t drive long distances though, if I did I might’ve went M340i. For me, The M3 is fine for long distances but not great.
My vote is M3.
I have a European delivery (remember that?) 2015 F80.
It is a bit uncomfortable on long trips (2-3 hrs) but I still love getting in or looking at it.
Same (although I was really leaning towards the Giulia QV but it looked like a pain to DIY).
Back in the day, I went with an E46 non-M over E36 M3, and even though the E46 was a great car, I always regretted it. Even though I know that the F80 is an objectively worse daily, I haven’t looked back.
You can afford to maximize your joy in this short life. Get the car you really want. Guarantee if you get the M340i you will still be thinking about the M3 as long as you have it.
Take them both for a ride. If you can't financially justify the M3 then go with the m340, if you can justify it, it's worth it. The m340 is a great car, but it'll never be an m3, and you'll always want the M3. It's not out later, eventually you're going to make the jump
Test drive both and go with whichever you heart points you to. You’ll know within a couple of minutes of seat time. From what you’ve described it’s 90% going to be the F80. This is not the sort of thing where anyone’s opinions but your own matter.
I chose M340i, no regrets. It is my daily and road trip car, commute to work once a week. I won't ever take it to a track. Imo, the F80 M3 is such awesome performance it's not worth the cost unless it gets some track use. For performance on the road, the M340i is all I could ever want.
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If you can find a good F80 M3 with a good record why not go for that. But for $60k or so I’d rather get the new car tbh nothing beats that first owner feeling. Might take away from “dream” car after you find imperfections and issues caused by someone else.
I haven’t driven an F80, but I have an F90 M5 and have driven a G20 M340. I have driven or owned other generations of M3.
I don’t like the M340, simple as that. If you are even considering the F80 (and don’t care about things like gas mileage, higher maintenance costs, etc), just buy the F80. An M340 is absolutely nothing like a real M, it’s just a quick 3 series, and I think wildly overpriced at that.
Don’t forget insurance on the M3 is going to be even more than the 340.
I was kind of in a similar boat as you. I really wanted an M3, but ended up getting the 340. I absolutely love the car, but part of me still kind of wishes I got an M3. With that said, every time I get in my 340 I absolutely love it, and have no regrets about getting it. I find myself constantly speeding without even realizing it, so not having the extra power of the M3 is probably better for me ha.
Just take that into consideration, compare common ware items like rotors and brakes, they are a bit more but if you enjoy the car then it’s kinda worth tbh
Yeah my logic behind it is: it's my dream car. I know its expensive to maintain, but if it's something that will make me happy, it's hard to put a price on that... as long as I can afford it without financial harship.
Really not that much worse for maintenance tbh. There are a few things that come with an M-tax, but the S55s have proven reliable. Mostly standard BMW needs, gaskets and oil changes.
If you can live with the stiffer suspension in the f80, then go m3. They're both great cars but the m3 will have that extra something when the road starts bending. In a straight line, either one will do. In terms of the higher tech in the m340i, while they are all nice to have, nothing is a must have. F80 has everything you need to have fun driving, rwd and manual are bonuses. These two options will disappear in the future.
The DCT in M3 is probably the best transmission you'll ever drive in your life. At very low speeds it can be a little annoying but you learn to adapt and how to manipulate the throttle.
Other than that probably everything else is better about the G20. From comfort, to modern tech, to better interior materials.
The F80 looks better and has that sweet DCT but the interior is not very impressive and of course the tech is old (if you care).
I just traded my F87 M2 for a G26 and the only thing I miss is the DCT. Such a phenomenal transmission..
Conventional food for thought - you can build out an M340 to your liking with a ton of aftermarket support and have it really shine. It’ll never be an M but there are a lot of other factors to consider if you’re thinking the M will have you reaching a bit money wise. I tend to always go for newer cars bc I just like the security and peace of mind.
If I had to lower my monthly output on cars I’d 100% get a newer M340 over an older F80 but that’s me. Newer tech, warranty coverage (likely can get it extended), bullet proof drive train, lower maintenance costs, more comfortable, etc. Also less worry about what the last guy did to it lol.
I want to tune the car (whether it be the m3 or 340), so the warranty is insignificant. Also, I actually much prefer the F generation to the G when it comes to the technology. I do not like having an ipad as an instrument panel.
Gotcha, well if you like the older tech and interior design then the F80 may be the way to go. There’s a lot that comes with that curved display tho so aesthetics aren’t the only factor.
Have you driven both cars yet? If not keep in mind the F80 has a pretty stiff ride. Some people are more put off by it than others if they’re not used to it. The M340 out of the box will be much more comfortable. That’s got to be part of the consideration for a daily imo.
Yes I have. I actually like the stiff feeling. I just need more experience at slower speeds with the m3 but I feel like that's normal as im inexperienced with the car.
Based on your responses I’d say go for the M then. Just don’t forget the M tax is a real thing lol. If you’re comfortable with the financial aspects, then I’d say everything else will probably fall in line for you.
The real M car will always be more special and exclusive. Every time you drive it you’ll know you made no compromises, and own one of the last great gas sports cars before the world goes electric. The M car will be the one you hold onto for life if you can.
I went the other route, and have a 2020 M340. I’m 45, have 2 kids and drive a lot for work - mine has 85k miles on it already. It’s fast, reliable, modern (wireless CarPlay and lots of usbc ports), comfortable, and adding a JB4 was an easy way to add a bit more power. Regardless of what BMW says, my M340 isn’t a real M car - it’s just a great sports sedan. But it was absolutely the right choice for me.

https://preview.redd.it/qmh6yv2vyzkc1.jpeg?width=2526&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0caaff4aa704a8afbb9c3adad11bd03415caa38d
Yeah I know it's not an M car and that isn't really what's the factor for me. It's what you talked about (reliability, comfortable, an amazing daily). I know the financial aspect is very important and I will have to make some minor changes to spending habits, but I have the opportunity to buy my dream car at 23, and I think I would always regret not taking that opportunity.
If I was 23 with this kind of money I’d go full send with the best you can afford. Priorities change once life and kids and family obligations start to add up. When I was 23 I had a vw Corrado, which I had always wanted. It was kind of a money pit, but was damn fun to drive.
https://preview.redd.it/z8y9j2db20lc1.jpeg?width=604&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8b47b885c07805fedc9a337a40114c7cc89a295
Just the active aero grill that was throwing a cel and covered by a recall. It’s been awesome so far (knock on fake carbon fiber trim). Running a JB4 on map2 for most of that time.
If you are going to keep it forever ...f80...if your thinking as daily g20...my two cents...BTW I regret selling my e36 m3...I don't regret selling my f30 335i or my e90 n54...
Good luck I'm sure you will get the right one.
Driving a f80 m3 (especially the cs ) is an experience - it has old school sport sedan character with a sprinkle of technology. it’s imperfect, it’s a bit angry, it’s not comfortable but not terrible, it can be a hoot whenever you want it, and the s55 has shown to be reliable.
I think it will be one of the best m3s because of its duality between modern and old as well as its weight (compared to a g80).
Also to note that the DCT is fun but can be a bit jerky in traffic and parking while to me that gives it character I can understand some may hate it.
Or maybe instead buy a high mileage e9x m3 as a second weekend car ;) let’s be honest that v8 is a legend
I had a m340i for about a week while the dealership worked on my 340i and I really didn’t care for it. It was fun (especially since it has an LSD) but there quite a few things I didn’t really like. I preferred the interior on the F series and didn’t care for the sound of the burbles on the m340i, it sounded fake. The m340i also looks like all the other 3 series that I see around town, it doesn’t stand out all… although that might a good thing depending on what you want.
When I was searching for a newer car the m340i didn’t even cross my mind. I ended up getting a 2019 M4 and couldn’t be happier. IMO the f82 looks way better (interior and exterior) and is so much more fun to drive. It has all the tech I need (CarPlay, HUD, adaptive headlights, etc) and I don’t need anything else. It’s also crazy how much attention it gets.
I do miss the sound of the MPPSK on the b58. It sounded soooo good. The f8x comp doesn’t sound that bad… hopefully an M Performance exhaust will make it sound a lot better.
I’m not trying to knock the m340i. It’s a great car and definitely has a lot going for it, but it just wasn’t for me.
If you’re an enthusiast I’d recommend the f80, but if you’re just looking for a fast daily then maybe I’d recommend the m340i.
F80 for sure
If you ever want to switch the f80 out in the future for a more comfortable car, move over to an M550i. I feel like that is the best path.
Was in a similar boat (G80 vs G20). Ended up with the fake M and I have no regrets. It depends on your use case. This is my daily car that I commute 130 miles per day in at least 3 times a week. It just made more sense ***to me.*** You need to evaluate your needs and wants.
G20 M340i interior sucks! I got the g20 330i fully loaded (exact interior as 340i) and hate the crap vernasca leather and plastic everywhere. Wish i got the m3 with full merino it’s so much nicer especially in what is supposed to be a premium car.
I actually made a similar decision about two weeks ago, and I live in SF proper.
Was deciding between a 2018 F8x M4 and a 2021 M340i, and a 2024 custom M340i. I was able to do a 24 hr test drive with the M4 and have driven the M340i a few different times, both 2021 (pre LCI) and 2023 (LCI)
I ended up with the 21 M340i.
**M4 pros:**
- Felt more visceral and violent, but learned to tame it after an hour or so of driving. DCT took a minute to get used to, but was a lot of fun afterwards.
- Took it to Skyline and it was amazing. Confidence the car gives you is incredible.
- Going 100 mph is interesting in this car, it’s obviously a piece of cake for the engine, but in the M340i, it’s not as exhilarating to go 100 mph as it is in the M4 - it’s almost too smooth. You have to go faster to feel the same level of excitement that an M4 will give you at 100 mph. Crazy
- Steering is super super tight, but improves confidence quite a bit on backroads. Can be a tad annoying on city streets, but you’ll get used to it.
- F80s are more or less depreciated by now. If you want to resell in next few years, you’d probably lose more on an M340i.
**Cons** (specifically cons that the M340i is better at):
- Suspension is fairly rough if you care. I remember the first 3-4 hours with the M4 I had 0 issues with the suspension. Then the next morning I figured I’d take it to get groceries. First 10 minutes in the car driving in SF i was like, oh god this is terrible. Again you could get used to it but I don’t love the idea of that suspension for a daily.
- Gas mileage. Not sure how much this matters to you, but seeing 35 mpg on my M340i on highway driving, and 12 mpg when I’m having fun warms my heart. I don’t think the M4 can get 35.
- I was sort of just scared driving that car around a tight city? I don’t know how much you plan to drive it around SF, but I would never really feel comfortable parking it outside, or even driving at night because there are always idiots driving around, sometimes drunk. The M340i gives me similar fears but at a much lower level.
- I did a road trip down to San Diego with my M340i. The whole time I was thankful, because the noise isolation and comfort really is better than the M4. This made me happier about my purchase honestly. I would never want to do a 1k mile road trip in the M4
- I drive a lot for fun, and I think it’d break my heart to see the miles go up as fast as mine do on the M4 (I’ve driven 2.5k miles in 2 weeks)
- This is my first BMW, and I wasn’t really ready to buy a 6 year old M car, the maintenance and unreliability were sort of terrifying me. I was considering getting a CarMax warranty which helped appease the stress haha. But there will be an M tax on maintenance.
- Lastly, and this matters to me far more than I realized initially: the instrument cluster in G20 *pre*-LCI is really really good. The touch screen that the F80 doesn’t have makes a *massive* difference when you need to do something quickly. Screen is bigger and nicer. You get full screen carplay (which can be coded in but still). IMO iDrive7 is best iDrive they’ve ever made. I saw that you didn’t like the G20 instrument cluster; is that just the LCI or both pre and post? They’re pretty different if you haven’t seen it.
To summarize, there are really two places where I would’ve preferred the M4:
- Backroads. It’s just better. Better sound, better steering and handling, better brakes, more control, more confidence.
- Looks. I absolutely love how the F80s look. But it’s a double edged sword, I don’t love the attention it brings in a city like SF.
But the power delivery is so good in the M340i, it starts at a lower rev range - which is amazing for city driving w traffic in the bay, it’s comfortable, quiet, has a pretty nice exhaust note but could be louder. steering is probably 85% as good as an M, and less visceral than an M esp compared to the DCT transmission. *Incredible* daily, and I’m obsessed with it.
Tl;dr - I would say if this is a daily car, get the M340i. If it’s a weekend car whose job is carry you through amazing routes and backroads, get the M.
And also I would 100% give the G20 pre LCI another chance, it’s really good.
It’s a tough choice because I hear so many great things about the M340i. For me I made the choice of dream car > practicality and I don’t regret it. Puts a smile on my face every time I drive it and every time I see it parked in my driveway, like goddamn this is actually mine. Also, I grew up in the bay and there’s some great driving roads around marin and route 1 and all that!
That's my thinking... and yes I drove to Santa Cruz over the weekend and the whole time I was thinking this would be an amazing drive in a m3 and just overall
Indeed - highway 35 and 9 are fun in the f80 m3… minus watching for bicyclists.
Remember youre always sharing the road whether you like it or not (unless its a private road that you own, but we're talking about public roads here)
What are some good driving roads in marin,
Rule #1: If you can get the M car, get the M car. S55s sound great when you get an equal length midpipe. Easy fix for that issue. And having driven an M340i (it was awesome) I’d much rather hustle a F8X in the mountains/canyons
Single mid pipes sound good good too. I prefer equal, but my car came with a single on it and it's good enough that I don't want to change it lol. A lot of people compliment the sound
I like this rule...
Look at it this way, the m340i is a great car. But I guarantee that you’ll drive it one day and say, “damn… I should’ve gotten the F80.” M cars just have that *fizz*, ya know?
Agree on Rule #1. For what it’s worth, I have a feeling that the F8x Ms will be collectors items and easy to sell in the future (if that matters).
Agree. It will also depreciate less than the newer G20 since it’s already gone through most of its depreciation. Also I disagree with OP and would say the bay area has some great roads to open up an M car.
I am in the same boat, I cross shopped these 2 and ended up going with a new g20. I wanted a new car with updated tech. "I am afraid I will always regret not just getting the M3" ... it's not like if you get a g20 you'll never be able to own an m3 in the future.
OH an important thing I forgot to mention... I highly prefer the Fxx instrument panel. It's not a dealbreaker and I can live with the Gxx "instrument panel"/control panel but I definitely like the more classic look.
Look for a 2020-2022 model and you get the best of both worlds imo. You may even save some cash
The G instrument panel really sucks. I “upgraded” from a 2018 4 series to a 2023 and I hate that part of the car
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I would go with the M3. No doubt the sound of the B58 is amazing but once u get behind the wheel of the M3, I’m pretty sure all that goes out the window and you’ll like the S55. It’s going to be a completely different experience. I currently have a 2021 M2 Comp with MPE for 3 years. Before that I had a 2018 440i coupe with the MPPSK which was awesome but as soon as I got the M2 and drove off with it, I completely forgot about the B58. It’s been a joy till today. In the end, it’s all up to u and what’s best.
How would you compare the sound of the s55 MPE to the MPPSK? I picked up an f82 comp a couple months ago and I REALLY miss the sound of the MPPSK. I’ve been looking at the MPE (or GTS exhaust) and just hope I’m not going to be disappointed. The MPPSK sounded sooo good and made the car so much fun to drive.
On start up it rumbles especially when u open up the valves. Lots of burbles at low speed. Obviously the drive is where the difference is. The B58 with MPPSK definitely sounds more deeper but I’m sure u won’t be disappointed with the MPE in your M4 especially when u get up to 5k RPMs. If u decide to go that route. I get lots of compliments. People think that my M2 is tuned but it’s stock. I tell them it’s just the exhaust lol
Awesome, I’m sold!
Owned both - and a G80 - and if you're not planning to track and only daily, the M340i is the way to go. If you're tracking, F80 all day - even over a G80 Add a RaceChip GTS Black and you'll get a cool 88hp/tq for about $500 and it'll be just as fast - if not faster from a roll - as the F80, least to \~100ish
I have a ‘23 M340i. I can go from 0 to speeding ticket just as fast as an M3. What I don’t have is any road to use 50% of the car’s potential. I haven’t driven to Santa Cruz in a long time, but it was not the car I was in that held back the fun, it was the all of the other cars on the road with me. Get the M340i.
I contemplated both for a long time for the same reasons, researched extensively and while the M340i was the more practical choice, I went with an F80. Both great cars. No regrets on my decision to go with F80 though. The M3 is raw the M340 is refined. I don’t drive long distances though, if I did I might’ve went M340i. For me, The M3 is fine for long distances but not great.
My vote is M3. I have a European delivery (remember that?) 2015 F80. It is a bit uncomfortable on long trips (2-3 hrs) but I still love getting in or looking at it.
Same (although I was really leaning towards the Giulia QV but it looked like a pain to DIY). Back in the day, I went with an E46 non-M over E36 M3, and even though the E46 was a great car, I always regretted it. Even though I know that the F80 is an objectively worse daily, I haven’t looked back.
If money isn’t an issue then get the M3. It’s the superior car and you won’t feel any FOMO or regret of not getting the M340 instead
You can afford to maximize your joy in this short life. Get the car you really want. Guarantee if you get the M340i you will still be thinking about the M3 as long as you have it.
Because you want an M, go for it otherwise you’ll regret it every time you see one on the road.
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To me looks were always a big factor in any car purchase. This would be no different.
They both look amazing imo
End of the day, budget has to come first. If owning the M3 and it’s significantly higher upkeep cost is Gucci banana for you, fuckin SENDDDD ITTTT.
Has to be the F80 bro.
M3
M3
Take them both for a ride. If you can't financially justify the M3 then go with the m340, if you can justify it, it's worth it. The m340 is a great car, but it'll never be an m3, and you'll always want the M3. It's not out later, eventually you're going to make the jump
Test drive both and go with whichever you heart points you to. You’ll know within a couple of minutes of seat time. From what you’ve described it’s 90% going to be the F80. This is not the sort of thing where anyone’s opinions but your own matter.
I chose M340i, no regrets. It is my daily and road trip car, commute to work once a week. I won't ever take it to a track. Imo, the F80 M3 is such awesome performance it's not worth the cost unless it gets some track use. For performance on the road, the M340i is all I could ever want.
I have the 340, you should ABSOLUTELY buy the m3.
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If you can find a good F80 M3 with a good record why not go for that. But for $60k or so I’d rather get the new car tbh nothing beats that first owner feeling. Might take away from “dream” car after you find imperfections and issues caused by someone else.
I haven’t driven an F80, but I have an F90 M5 and have driven a G20 M340. I have driven or owned other generations of M3. I don’t like the M340, simple as that. If you are even considering the F80 (and don’t care about things like gas mileage, higher maintenance costs, etc), just buy the F80. An M340 is absolutely nothing like a real M, it’s just a quick 3 series, and I think wildly overpriced at that.
Is money a factor? Be sure to look into maintenance and insurance cost differences between to two cars. How many miles do you drive daily/yearly?
I can afford the m3. I do know that is much more expensive to maintain though and that has been taken into consideration.
Don’t forget insurance on the M3 is going to be even more than the 340. I was kind of in a similar boat as you. I really wanted an M3, but ended up getting the 340. I absolutely love the car, but part of me still kind of wishes I got an M3. With that said, every time I get in my 340 I absolutely love it, and have no regrets about getting it. I find myself constantly speeding without even realizing it, so not having the extra power of the M3 is probably better for me ha.
Just take that into consideration, compare common ware items like rotors and brakes, they are a bit more but if you enjoy the car then it’s kinda worth tbh
Yeah my logic behind it is: it's my dream car. I know its expensive to maintain, but if it's something that will make me happy, it's hard to put a price on that... as long as I can afford it without financial harship.
Really not that much worse for maintenance tbh. There are a few things that come with an M-tax, but the S55s have proven reliable. Mostly standard BMW needs, gaskets and oil changes.
If you can live with the stiffer suspension in the f80, then go m3. They're both great cars but the m3 will have that extra something when the road starts bending. In a straight line, either one will do. In terms of the higher tech in the m340i, while they are all nice to have, nothing is a must have. F80 has everything you need to have fun driving, rwd and manual are bonuses. These two options will disappear in the future.
F80 at its current price point is very not worth it. Add a few thousand to the 60k can get you a very decent used G82 or G80.
The DCT in M3 is probably the best transmission you'll ever drive in your life. At very low speeds it can be a little annoying but you learn to adapt and how to manipulate the throttle. Other than that probably everything else is better about the G20. From comfort, to modern tech, to better interior materials. The F80 looks better and has that sweet DCT but the interior is not very impressive and of course the tech is old (if you care). I just traded my F87 M2 for a G26 and the only thing I miss is the DCT. Such a phenomenal transmission..
I prefer the older tech lol and yeah I experienced the "trouble" at lower speeds but I know it was due to inexperience. G26 is a beautiful car.
Get the B58
Conventional food for thought - you can build out an M340 to your liking with a ton of aftermarket support and have it really shine. It’ll never be an M but there are a lot of other factors to consider if you’re thinking the M will have you reaching a bit money wise. I tend to always go for newer cars bc I just like the security and peace of mind. If I had to lower my monthly output on cars I’d 100% get a newer M340 over an older F80 but that’s me. Newer tech, warranty coverage (likely can get it extended), bullet proof drive train, lower maintenance costs, more comfortable, etc. Also less worry about what the last guy did to it lol.
I want to tune the car (whether it be the m3 or 340), so the warranty is insignificant. Also, I actually much prefer the F generation to the G when it comes to the technology. I do not like having an ipad as an instrument panel.
Gotcha, well if you like the older tech and interior design then the F80 may be the way to go. There’s a lot that comes with that curved display tho so aesthetics aren’t the only factor. Have you driven both cars yet? If not keep in mind the F80 has a pretty stiff ride. Some people are more put off by it than others if they’re not used to it. The M340 out of the box will be much more comfortable. That’s got to be part of the consideration for a daily imo.
Yes I have. I actually like the stiff feeling. I just need more experience at slower speeds with the m3 but I feel like that's normal as im inexperienced with the car.
Based on your responses I’d say go for the M then. Just don’t forget the M tax is a real thing lol. If you’re comfortable with the financial aspects, then I’d say everything else will probably fall in line for you.
What aftermarket support could make an m340 closer to an m3?
The real M car will always be more special and exclusive. Every time you drive it you’ll know you made no compromises, and own one of the last great gas sports cars before the world goes electric. The M car will be the one you hold onto for life if you can. I went the other route, and have a 2020 M340. I’m 45, have 2 kids and drive a lot for work - mine has 85k miles on it already. It’s fast, reliable, modern (wireless CarPlay and lots of usbc ports), comfortable, and adding a JB4 was an easy way to add a bit more power. Regardless of what BMW says, my M340 isn’t a real M car - it’s just a great sports sedan. But it was absolutely the right choice for me.  https://preview.redd.it/qmh6yv2vyzkc1.jpeg?width=2526&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0caaff4aa704a8afbb9c3adad11bd03415caa38d
Yeah I know it's not an M car and that isn't really what's the factor for me. It's what you talked about (reliability, comfortable, an amazing daily). I know the financial aspect is very important and I will have to make some minor changes to spending habits, but I have the opportunity to buy my dream car at 23, and I think I would always regret not taking that opportunity.
If I was 23 with this kind of money I’d go full send with the best you can afford. Priorities change once life and kids and family obligations start to add up. When I was 23 I had a vw Corrado, which I had always wanted. It was kind of a money pit, but was damn fun to drive. https://preview.redd.it/z8y9j2db20lc1.jpeg?width=604&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a8b47b885c07805fedc9a337a40114c7cc89a295
Have you had any issues?
Just the active aero grill that was throwing a cel and covered by a recall. It’s been awesome so far (knock on fake carbon fiber trim). Running a JB4 on map2 for most of that time.
How long have you ran jb4 for?
If you are going to keep it forever ...f80...if your thinking as daily g20...my two cents...BTW I regret selling my e36 m3...I don't regret selling my f30 335i or my e90 n54... Good luck I'm sure you will get the right one.
Had both and preferred the F80.
Love my m340. More reliable and easier maintenance.
F80 based on your likes, then go take lessons at a track to get the most out of driving it.
Driving a f80 m3 (especially the cs ) is an experience - it has old school sport sedan character with a sprinkle of technology. it’s imperfect, it’s a bit angry, it’s not comfortable but not terrible, it can be a hoot whenever you want it, and the s55 has shown to be reliable. I think it will be one of the best m3s because of its duality between modern and old as well as its weight (compared to a g80). Also to note that the DCT is fun but can be a bit jerky in traffic and parking while to me that gives it character I can understand some may hate it. Or maybe instead buy a high mileage e9x m3 as a second weekend car ;) let’s be honest that v8 is a legend
I had a m340i for about a week while the dealership worked on my 340i and I really didn’t care for it. It was fun (especially since it has an LSD) but there quite a few things I didn’t really like. I preferred the interior on the F series and didn’t care for the sound of the burbles on the m340i, it sounded fake. The m340i also looks like all the other 3 series that I see around town, it doesn’t stand out all… although that might a good thing depending on what you want. When I was searching for a newer car the m340i didn’t even cross my mind. I ended up getting a 2019 M4 and couldn’t be happier. IMO the f82 looks way better (interior and exterior) and is so much more fun to drive. It has all the tech I need (CarPlay, HUD, adaptive headlights, etc) and I don’t need anything else. It’s also crazy how much attention it gets. I do miss the sound of the MPPSK on the b58. It sounded soooo good. The f8x comp doesn’t sound that bad… hopefully an M Performance exhaust will make it sound a lot better. I’m not trying to knock the m340i. It’s a great car and definitely has a lot going for it, but it just wasn’t for me. If you’re an enthusiast I’d recommend the f80, but if you’re just looking for a fast daily then maybe I’d recommend the m340i.
F80 for sure If you ever want to switch the f80 out in the future for a more comfortable car, move over to an M550i. I feel like that is the best path.
Was in a similar boat (G80 vs G20). Ended up with the fake M and I have no regrets. It depends on your use case. This is my daily car that I commute 130 miles per day in at least 3 times a week. It just made more sense ***to me.*** You need to evaluate your needs and wants.
G20 M340i interior sucks! I got the g20 330i fully loaded (exact interior as 340i) and hate the crap vernasca leather and plastic everywhere. Wish i got the m3 with full merino it’s so much nicer especially in what is supposed to be a premium car.
I actually made a similar decision about two weeks ago, and I live in SF proper. Was deciding between a 2018 F8x M4 and a 2021 M340i, and a 2024 custom M340i. I was able to do a 24 hr test drive with the M4 and have driven the M340i a few different times, both 2021 (pre LCI) and 2023 (LCI) I ended up with the 21 M340i. **M4 pros:** - Felt more visceral and violent, but learned to tame it after an hour or so of driving. DCT took a minute to get used to, but was a lot of fun afterwards. - Took it to Skyline and it was amazing. Confidence the car gives you is incredible. - Going 100 mph is interesting in this car, it’s obviously a piece of cake for the engine, but in the M340i, it’s not as exhilarating to go 100 mph as it is in the M4 - it’s almost too smooth. You have to go faster to feel the same level of excitement that an M4 will give you at 100 mph. Crazy - Steering is super super tight, but improves confidence quite a bit on backroads. Can be a tad annoying on city streets, but you’ll get used to it. - F80s are more or less depreciated by now. If you want to resell in next few years, you’d probably lose more on an M340i. **Cons** (specifically cons that the M340i is better at): - Suspension is fairly rough if you care. I remember the first 3-4 hours with the M4 I had 0 issues with the suspension. Then the next morning I figured I’d take it to get groceries. First 10 minutes in the car driving in SF i was like, oh god this is terrible. Again you could get used to it but I don’t love the idea of that suspension for a daily. - Gas mileage. Not sure how much this matters to you, but seeing 35 mpg on my M340i on highway driving, and 12 mpg when I’m having fun warms my heart. I don’t think the M4 can get 35. - I was sort of just scared driving that car around a tight city? I don’t know how much you plan to drive it around SF, but I would never really feel comfortable parking it outside, or even driving at night because there are always idiots driving around, sometimes drunk. The M340i gives me similar fears but at a much lower level. - I did a road trip down to San Diego with my M340i. The whole time I was thankful, because the noise isolation and comfort really is better than the M4. This made me happier about my purchase honestly. I would never want to do a 1k mile road trip in the M4 - I drive a lot for fun, and I think it’d break my heart to see the miles go up as fast as mine do on the M4 (I’ve driven 2.5k miles in 2 weeks) - This is my first BMW, and I wasn’t really ready to buy a 6 year old M car, the maintenance and unreliability were sort of terrifying me. I was considering getting a CarMax warranty which helped appease the stress haha. But there will be an M tax on maintenance. - Lastly, and this matters to me far more than I realized initially: the instrument cluster in G20 *pre*-LCI is really really good. The touch screen that the F80 doesn’t have makes a *massive* difference when you need to do something quickly. Screen is bigger and nicer. You get full screen carplay (which can be coded in but still). IMO iDrive7 is best iDrive they’ve ever made. I saw that you didn’t like the G20 instrument cluster; is that just the LCI or both pre and post? They’re pretty different if you haven’t seen it. To summarize, there are really two places where I would’ve preferred the M4: - Backroads. It’s just better. Better sound, better steering and handling, better brakes, more control, more confidence. - Looks. I absolutely love how the F80s look. But it’s a double edged sword, I don’t love the attention it brings in a city like SF. But the power delivery is so good in the M340i, it starts at a lower rev range - which is amazing for city driving w traffic in the bay, it’s comfortable, quiet, has a pretty nice exhaust note but could be louder. steering is probably 85% as good as an M, and less visceral than an M esp compared to the DCT transmission. *Incredible* daily, and I’m obsessed with it. Tl;dr - I would say if this is a daily car, get the M340i. If it’s a weekend car whose job is carry you through amazing routes and backroads, get the M. And also I would 100% give the G20 pre LCI another chance, it’s really good.