If you've got an extra $10K kicking around for a new M3 ($81K instead of $71K), maybe you should consider the 2012 M3 Competition Edition, in Frozen Silver paint. It's limited to only 40 examples to mark the 40th anniversary of BMW’s M performance division.
Let's talk about the paint, which is created by layering a silk matte clear coat over the regular Silver Metallic paint. The result is a “rare metallic luster” that requires sufficiently complex maintenance that you have to sign away your first born and promise not to polish it carelessly or take it just any old place to have it repainted, should somebody key it. To provide contrast, the car’s hood vents, chrome exterior trim, grilles, and exhaust tips are all painted black. The M3 also has black 19-inch wheels, like the M3 GTS.
Inside is black leather upholstery with silver accent stitching, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and rear carbon fiber trim for the dashboard and center console. As a reference to BMW’s racing prowess, the steering wheel and door sill plates feature a special M3 checkered flag emblem.
Several options packages are standard: the Competition Package, which includes Dynamic Damper Control and sports suspension with a lower ride height; the Cold Weather Package, which bundles a ski bag, heated front seats, and headlight washers; and the Premium Package, which includes power-folding mirrors, keyless entry, a power rear sunshade, and rear parking sensors.
The 2012 BMW M3 Competition Edition costs $81,060 (including an $875 destination charge), That’s roughly a $10,000 premium over a comparably equipped M3 coupe, at $71,075. One car will be allocated to each of the first 40 BMW USA dealerships that became M Certified. The line forms on the right. —Paul Duchene
