2018 BMW M3 VIN Verification

2018 BMW M3 VIN Verification

This 2018 BMW M3 VIN Verification was done by our team member in Walnut, Ca. on
12-09-2025

INTRODUCTION

The 2018 BMW M3 is a high‑performance luxury sports sedan from BMW’s famed M division, widely regarded as one of the benchmark performance sedans of its era. Part of the F80 generation, it combines aggressive performance with everyday usability, offering exhilarating driving dynamics alongside premium comfort and technology. 


HISTORY & ORIGINS

The BMW M3 nameplate traces its roots back to the early 1980s as the motorsport‑inspired version of the 3 Series. The 2018 model represents the final year of the F80 generation (2015–2018) before a full redesign for later generations. The F80 M3 was notable for replacing the traditionally naturally aspirated engine with a twin‑turbocharged inline‑6, ushering in a new era of power and torque for the model. 


ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 2018 BMW M3 comes with a 3.0‑liter twin‑turbocharged inline‑6 (S55) engine. Standard output for the base model is 425 horsepower and 406 lb‑ft of torque

Transmission options include:

  • 6‑speed manual (standard)

  • 7‑speed dual‑clutch automatic (M‑DCT) (optional)

Performance variants include:

  • M3 Competition Package — bumps output to around 444 hp with enhanced suspension and dynamics. 

  • M3 CS (Club Sport) — limited edition with around 454 hp, lighter weight, and refined performance tuning.

Thanks to this powertrain, the M3 delivers brisk acceleration (0‑60 mph around the low 4‑second range or quicker in CS form) and spirited driving dynamics. 


DESIGN & FEATURES

The 2018 M3 maintains a four‑door sedan design with aggressive M‑specific styling: prominent air vents, muscular fenders, and aerodynamic cues that distinguish it from the regular 3 Series. Inside, premium materials and performance‑oriented features are standard, with available upgrades such as sport seats, upgraded leather, and various interior trim options. 

Available features include:

  • Head‑up display

  • Adaptive suspension and dynamic driving modes

  • Parking assist and camera systems

  • Apple CarPlay and wireless charging (optional)


TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 2018 M3 was available in multiple trims and performance packages:

  • Base M3 Sedan — standard performance and equipment. 

  • M3 with Competition Package — enhanced performance and handling upgrades. 

  • M3 CS — a limited‑edition high‑performance variant with power and weight advantages. 

These variants allowed buyers to tailor the M3 from a pure performance sedan to a more track‑ready machine. 


SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety and tech features on the 2018 M3 included a suite of modern driver assists and comfort systems:

  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and ABS

  • Multiple airbags and traction control systems

  • Optional driving assistance package (lane departure warning, collision mitigation)

  • Infotainment with navigation, connectivity, and premium audio options 

Although specific crash test ratings for the M3 itself are limited, its 3 Series base has achieved strong safety ratings. 


FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

The 2018 M3’s performance‑oriented engine returns modest fuel economy for its class:

  • 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / ~20 mpg combined with the manual or automatic in base trim. 
    More powerful trims like the CS see similar or slightly lower figures due to increased performance. 

Real‑world user data suggests combined averages around ~19–20 mpg depending on driving style. 


MARKET COMPARISON

In its segment, the 2018 M3 competed with performance sedans such as the Mercedes‑AMG C63, Audi RS5/RS4, and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. Critics often praised the M3 for its balance of daily usability and track‑ready dynamics, with competitive acceleration and refined handling.


PRICING

Original manufacturer pricing ranged from approximately $66,500 (base) up to around $98,250 (M3 CS) depending on trim and options. 

Today, used prices vary widely based on condition and mileage, often falling in the mid‑$30,000 to $80,000+ range, with limited CS variants commanding higher values among collectors and enthusiasts. 


NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

While specific formal awards for 2018 may vary, the F80 M3 generation has been widely recognized by automotive media for its driving dynamics and engineering excellence. It remains a highly regarded performance sedan in enthusiast and review circles, often featured in comparisons with rival high‑performance sedans of its time.