Actually I did mention in my first post that the M3 its heavier then it should be. You claim of 1,000 pounds more then a C2S would indicate you drove a convertible M3 which adds 500 lbs on top of the coupe, which in itself weights about 3,600 lbs. The convertible is a serious 'pig', and not one to get if you really care about driving dynamics.

I think the issue with modern BMWs is that BMW has taken the course of adding a layer of technology to enhance the driving experience and dynamics while Porsche has try to keep true to the essence of sport cars which is low weight and bumping up the hp (ie GT3). So while 911s, even when they evolve, try to minimize the weight gain, BMW has really add tons of technology and size to their cars which has resulted in serious weight issues. I would love it if BMW came out with a M3 with lower weight to power ratio, ie like a modern CSL.

 

That GTR is one ugly car though - so much "tacked" on design, it looks like one of those "spy shot" cars with all the fake cladding. While the M3 won't win any beauty contests, one can find an angle or two that can be appreciated.

One of the things I don't miss about the latest era of BMWs - I just got tired of walking up to ugly, weird-looking cars.

 

Yeah, cross shopping a 997 and M3 doesn't make much sense to me. They both kind of serve different drivers and requirements.

 

As they are similarly priced, i think it depends on what you want. I have been driving a modded 996TT for nearly 5 years and just sold it. It was fun, loud and fast, but also uncomfortable as a daily driver, no blue tooth, no heated seats, no nav and a 6 speed manual. It was a great weekend race car. I'm now driving a new BMW M3 convertible. For me, the M3 is much more comfortable, the interior is better appointed, love the seats, love the technology, love the gadgets, and the V8 exhaust note at 8300 rpm is awesome. As an all around daily driver that is also fast and fun to drive...its perfect. if i wanted another serious performance porsche, i'd buy a GT3.