For the elect collegiate man with a need for speed listen up.  You’re not quite ready for the BMW M5 just yet but the all new 2009 BMW M3 Coupe is a car to seriously keep in mind.  The iconic Coupe has undergone a complete redesign and the new M3 has a revamped interior, exterior and engine.

There’s a lot to love about the new M3 which competes in the same market space as the Lexus IS-F, Audi RS5 and Mercedes CLK63 AMG.  The "M" car now features a new revved-up V8 engine which is the lightest V8 in the world, evening weighing less than the old M3’s incline-six.  What this really means is that the 2009 M3 delivers 420 horsepower from 4 liters and a maximum torque of 295 pound per feet at 3,900 rpm.  What this really, really means is that the maximum engine speed is 8,300 rpm and the car is an insane powerhouse.  Add to that a tuned suspension, six-speed manual transmission, a carbon fiber roof which cuts unnecessary weight and lowers the center of gravity.  Plus, all the exterior modifications we always loved about the BMW M3, equals one awesome upgrade.

The production 18-inch wheels will also be offered in 19-inch alloy, similar to the Y-spoke from the M3 concept car.  MSRP starts at $56,500 and that is excessively reasonable for a car that packs such a strong punch.  We recommend all the upgrades in the premium and technology packages because they enhance the Coupe and, in our opinion, are necessary to get the full-on BMW M3 luxury driving experience.