E36 vs E46

The 2025 Formula Drift Championship kicked off in spectacular fashion at Road Atlanta, and fans of classic BMWs were treated to an electrifying showdown in the PROSPEC category.

Both the BMW E36 and E46 M3 hold legendary status within the drifting and tuning communities.

The E36 may represent the purest form of a classic M3, with a more visceral experience and greater affordability, while the E46 brings more modern engineering and a higher performance ceiling.

The BMW E36 M3 is known for its lightweight chassis, near-perfect weight distribution, and linear power delivery.

The BMW E46 M3 is often considered the peak of naturally aspirated M3 performance.

The E36 remains the budget-friendly option for new drifters, with cheaper parts and more availability.

he answer lies in your goals and budget. If you’re looking for raw connection with the car, lower build costs, and simplicity, the E36 M3 might be your dream drift car.