BMW M3 - a supercar refined - Buying and owning

The M3 will set you back £50,625, but it has the quality to justify its price tag, and thanks to a loyal following, we expect resale values will be strong.

So to buy and sell, it makes sense. To run, things are a bit different - work the engine hard and you'll struggle to get anywhere near the claimed 22.8mpg.

You'll also pay tax at the maximum 35%, while insurance premiums will be stiff.

Tyre wear is also likely to be an expensive issue.

Things are good on the safety front, though. Like every 3 Series, the M3 comes brimming with safety kit - front, side and curtain airbags are standard, as is electronic stability control.

The anti-lock brake system even incorporates a function that uses gentle pressure to keep the brake discs dry in the wet, and deadlocks are fitted as standard to make things more difficult for thieves.