One of the nicest aspects of the E46 M3 is that it can be used as a daily driver, even in the winter. The *relatively* low torque combined with the horsepower coming on in the upper RPMs means that it can be driven in the snow no problem (with snow tires of course).

I have owned a couple of cars, (LS1 camaros) over the past few years that had about the same HP as the M3, but more torque. Even with snow tires, a PITA to drive daily in the winter. It basically just spun the snow tires in the dry weather and it still was a pain in the snow.

With the E90 rumored HP to be up around 400-420, I am wondering if the torque will also come up to mid 300s. I am also wondering if the power will be a smoother curve or if it will still come on in the upper RPMs. This could impact its ability to be a daily driver for us in the snow belt.

I guess we won't know for sure until we drive it/see some confirmed specs. :nixweiss:

Thoughts....

(I know, buy a beater will be the response of many)

You can make a good hypothesis by comparing teh E46 with less powerful cars before it. And since it is drivable, I think the E90 will be as well. I'm assuming it'll be another high reving engine, so it'll be tame if you keep the rpm low.


One of the nicest aspects of the E46 M3 is that it can be used as a daily driver, even in the winter. The *relatively* low torque combined with the horsepower coming on in the upper RPMs means that it can be driven in the snow no problem (with snow tires of course).

I have owned a couple of cars, (LS1 camaros) over the past few years that had about the same HP as the M3, but more torque. Even with snow tires, a PITA to drive daily in the winter. It basically just spun the snow tires in the dry weather and it still was a pain in the snow.

With the E90 rumored HP to be up around 400-420, I am wondering if the torque will also come up to mid 300s. I am also wondering if the power will be a smoother curve or if it will still come on in the upper RPMs. This could impact its ability to be a daily driver for us in the snow belt.

I guess we won't know for sure until we drive it/see some confirmed specs. :nixweiss:

Thoughts....

(I know, buy a beater will be the response of many)

A lot of people are hyped about the Torque and Horse Power, I'm just hoping that they don't make the car 2,000lbs then what the e46 is. I'm hoping they can keep it around 3,500lbs, keep the thing light

One of the nicest aspects of the E46 M3 is that it can be used as a daily driver, even in the winter. The *relatively* low torque combined with the horsepower coming on in the upper RPMs means that it can be driven in the snow no problem (with snow tires of course).

I have owned a couple of cars, (LS1 camaros) over the past few years that had about the same HP as the M3, but more torque. Even with snow tires, a PITA to drive daily in the winter. It basically just spun the snow tires in the dry weather and it still was a pain in the snow.

With the E90 rumored HP to be up around 400-420, I am wondering if the torque will also come up to mid 300s. I am also wondering if the power will be a smoother curve or if it will still come on in the upper RPMs. This could impact its ability to be a daily driver for us in the snow belt.

I guess we won't know for sure until we drive it/see some confirmed specs. :nixweiss:

Thoughts....

(I know, buy a beater will be the response of many)


I don´t think it´ll be a problem since the new M5 can be (supposedly) driven
in slippery/snowy roads with ease.
Without traction control, could be tricky though.

-J-

no...

Yea it should be an easy drive in winter.

bump. include E92 M3. good daily?

wow, 5 year old thread.

I would say as long as you keep the rpms low it shouldn't be a problem.
Does the DCT have a snow setting where it will start off in 2nd gear?

people that buy beaters want to protect there investments...

people that drive the m3 in the winter either have only that car or thats IS there winter car lol

people that buy beaters want to protect there investments...

people that drive the m3 in the winter either have only that car or thats IS there winter car lol

Yes. But why not?? Enjoy it!

The E9x M3 would make a great daily driver.
Better a DD than a garage queen for a significantly depreciating asset.

The M3 is such a pleasure to drive, even when traffic sucks.
Instant, linear response from the Individual Throttle Bodies and quick to rev engine, taut and responsive suspension; it all makes for driving bliss.
(I really don't want to use the word 'Joy').

I would love an M3 for a daily!