Hmmm... that was a very interesting article, definitely a good read.
I think that they will always hold the M3 to a higher standard then other cars since it has been the car to set the standard for its class for so many years. Anytime your car gets compared to a 911, that is always a good thing, but when the price is almost the same then why not just buy it instead?
I'll have to wait until I can get behind the wheel of one before I can pass judgement, but I am still impressed by the new M3. I'm sure it will be an awesome car since my 335 doesn't cease to impress me, and the M is known for taking it up another level.