For many, an M3 in this shootout is a given but, believe it or not, it was a difficult choice to include this Munich monster in our 2008 PCOTY. The choice was a tight call, not because of other manufacturer competition, rather because of the current crop of Beemers hitting showroom floors.

We only choose one model from a carmaker and BMW launched the M3 and the 335i Sedan this year. The M3 would obviously be a contender, but when you look at highveld figures for the 335i Sedan, it becomes apparent that it too could’ve been at the sharp end.

After much deliberation, the right of passage was handed to the M3. Partly because it comes from real performance pedigree but also because the 335i Coupe took up the twin-turbo Beemer fight last year. And the M3 does out-perform the cheaper model.

Instead of a smooth inline six, the latest M3 strays from tradition with a V8 powerhouse. That doesn’t mean the M3 go is generated by an archaic lazy mill under the hood. Rather, the M3’s V8 is a high-revving, it goes to around 8400rpm, and it exudes technological advances and rockets the four-seater to class leading figures.

As always BMW has not only focused its attention on the loud pedal but has also considered the twisty stuff with a chassis that delivers a road hugging characteristic and inspiring ride. M3 still delivers the motion to the black stuff through the back end and can be a grin-inducing handful when all the electrical aids are turned off.

M3 is quite versatile. Unlike the other cars that line the top end of our Kyalami Hot Lap list, the Beemer will take four passengers and their luggage, and not require a yoga instructor. And as expected, the finish and spec levels are exemplary. Perhaps the most practical performance car we have ever seen.

But on the surface, there are two problems for the M3. The first is that even though it costs 650 big ones, you will want the optional extras and those will cost you more. The second thorn in its side is that although it looks classy, it is a little understated and too close to a run of the mill 3 Series. Leave the M5 and 335i as the senior statesman and make the M3 a boxed arch WTCC racer look-alike. Regardless, M3 is still a very strong contender.

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