All M3s are from different eras, & the tech and engineering was designed at different times as well. It is clear that the E30 M3 did create/invent the compact performance sedan/coupe sports saloon, to which the other M3s follow. It is also clear that each model of its era is the benchmark to which other performance vehicles from other brands are measured to. The newer Ms are obviously much faster than older generation versions, BUT as the 3series became bigger the M3 lost a bit of the chuckable nature of the E30 M3, in favour of more power, space, features etc. Not saying that the newer ones are not sharp driving tools, but the original M3 is still revered by driving fans as having balance, as well as a winning racing heritage in Touring cars around the world.
The E36 had alot to live up too, with the high standard being set by the E30 M3, but BMW wanted to create the perfect sports saloon, a high quality product, practical and not some track toy to be driven on weekends. I can recall the smoothness of the engine, lack of traction control on the first 210kw 3.0L version meant it was a handfull in full cry and in the rain, but most of us would enjoy this as a thrill anyway. And the motor in straight six config. is a classic, exhaust tone was music to anyone who appreciates that straight six howl. The coupe E36 M3, shape is instantly recognisable as an M3, in fact if you where to ask most people, the E36 is the one that is instantly registers as an M3, as it was popular as it was exclusive at he same time, and made the M3 appealing to most people as far a asthetic and desirable appeal go. Even the rims are still revered as masterpieces of design and are highly sought after items.
The E46 really elevated the M3, into a new performance level, and was capable of punching over and above its weight in the performance car market at the time, its metallic rasp exhaust note, is unique to this particular M, and the high rev principal in power delivery was welcomed by most drivers. Most consider the E46 to be the most complete M3, as it had aggressive looks to match unique power and drive-train setups, it was an outrageous sight on the road when it was launched much like the reaction people get when they see the 1M Coupe for the 1st time, as the car was pumped up like a body builder.
The E92 M3, continued on the high rev principal of the E46 but applied to a lightweight V8 package. The cars appearance initially appeared a bit toned down to the E46, but the design touches to make this this car an M are now current M-Design standards and applied across the M-model range and are really stunningly aggressive, like e.g. the side mirrors which are fuse at two points on the side glass, makes the car look like it has horns!, the bull shark like front and rear bumpers etc. The car again can punch above its weight in the performance stakes again, as is regarded as the current benchmark in the performance car market.
I'll just round up to say that each M3 model is unique as there are time differences between when each was made, neither is better than each other, they all have their own appeal, & I'm sure if one where to jump into the old E30 M3, it would still make you smile compared to a new E92 M3. Best not to compare them to each other rather celebrate what the represent of that era and what everyone likes about M-Division vehicles.
:thumbs: