Today’s M3 models are offered in three trim levels; a well-equipped Standard, a 500 HP Competition and a Competition with all-wheel-drive with starting prices ranging from $76,000 to $85,300. Options add up quickly. Our final MSRP was $92,225 with the most expensive $4,500 option simply ordering Laguna Seca Blue paint. I’d settle for Portinao Blue Metallic at no added cost but they didn’t consult me.

An interesting option is the $2,500 M Driver’s Package, an added attraction that allows the car to attain 180 MPH instead of that snail-like 155. It comes with driver training at one of BMW’s racetrack-based schools, a rather handy feature if you wish to transport yourself at eye-watering haste. I’d recommend the Shuttle Landing Facility down in Cape Canaveral to check out the 180 number. Fresh tires is a wise addition as well.

I didn’t verify the top speed since an orange jump suit isn’t my fashion choice, but leaning into the throttle verifies that there’s plenty of power available in every gear. And while self-shifting isn’t as quick as paddles, the connectivity of man and machine is a special joy for enthusiasts who still want to fully participate. It’s not as if we’re going to meddle much under the hood anymore.

Inside, BMW has modernized the cockpit with a sweeping digital panel that displays a configurable instrument layout straight ahead with the now ubiquitous infotainment off to the right. The leather seats are snug with tall bolsters and the steering wheel has great thumb grips at 9 and 3 with a proper squared-off bottom. And the wheel’s 12 o-clock has a bright red trim to make sure you’re pointed straight after exiting that turn in a drift. Additionally, two “M” levers are available to choose track or play time. In Italy they simply call that style of driving recess.

In such a performance-oriented machine with tight suspension, occupants might expect a bit less road comfort. The M3 is firm but not the least bit harsh and that firmness translates into razor sharp reflexes, an attribute you’ll like a lot when you encounter unexpected drama out in the motoring wild.

BMW offers quite a wide variety of nice handling cars and SUVs and the 3-series sedan has model options beginning at a relatively modest $47,125. But the Motorsport “M” cars are quite special with performance and appearance that commands a princely sum. And of course there are competent rivals. If you wish to stay in German territory, Audi’s RS 5 has specs that match up and the Mercedes AMG C 63 SE claims 671 HP from a turbo four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor. But if you wish to do your own shifting, Cadillac’s CT4 V Blackwing is a compelling alternative.