[ersin]

The M3 doesn't feel fast unless you rev it which you found out in your test drive. Bolt-on mods help a bit with the torque down low. I won't venture to guess if you'll be disappointed in this respect. Let's just say that appreciating the M3's flat torque curve is an acquired taste. It does pay off in giving the driver finer control when driving 10/10ths around a corner.

This forum has tons of info on mods. It seems after a couple of years there are more mods for this version than there were for the previous version of the M3 (E46). Though, other than the aforementioned exhaust, tune and pulleys, there's not much left on the table to get more from the engine other than forced induction. There are a few SC kits out there already, and they are considerably less than 20K. The bad thing about these kits is that those who have installed them need to go see a plastic surgeon to wipe the smile from their faces.

So, the power may be different than what you are used to. But consider that it does have enough power to break the rear wheels loose in three gears (with stability control off). And everything else about the M3 is top notch -- handling, roadholding, steering, comfort, fit and finish, materials, sound, convenience (a trunk and real back seats), etc. I think the only thing you could fault the E9x M3 on is the low gas mileage coupled with a smallish fuel tank (I get around 300 miles/tank with 90% highway driving). And they forgot to put an oil dipstick in the engine.

Hope this helps.

Cheers.