While many fans associate the M3 badge with the E30 or E46 series, the E90 is the one that goes instantly to our heart. The sporty sedan is one of BMW’s most understated M cars ever built and was often overlooked in the favor of the beautiful E92 M3 Coupe.

Before it came out in 2007, many balked at the idea of the E90 M3 because of its V8 engine, instead of BMW’s legendary inline-six. What an engine it was, though. The 4.0 liter V8 made 414 hp and revved to 8,250 RPM and made an incredible noise doing it. This paired to either a 6-Speed manual or a quick-shifting, 7-Speed DCT gearbox, got the M3 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.

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The E90 M3 took heat at first – especially with its more soft design – but once people warmed to it, they couldn’t stop singing its praises. With a beautifully linear power band, wonderful exhaust note, fantastic steering, incredible handling and great proportions, the E90 M3 will go down as one of the best.

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It had such great balance between being a normal everyday 3 Series and an absolute lunatic as well. It was also one of the more charismatic M3s. The E90 M3 was very different from the rest, therefore it holds a special place in my, as well as many other enthusiast’s, heart.

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To bring back memories of the E90 M3, we have a new photo gallery with some road and track photos.