[midwest 340xi 6sp]

Well, as someone who's owned 02 M3, 011 M3 w/zcp and now 2013 X3, I'm pretty damn qualified to provide an opinion

They are very, very different vehicles obviously...If you love the visceral thrill of a vehicle like the M3, driving an X3 everyday ain't going to cut it - no way no how..Won't matter if it's got paddles, 19" wheels, TT6 banger with M power package - it ain't going to cut it..The S65 and M3 package is the crown jewel of BMW - it's that special.

I remember when I traded in my 2002 M3 Cabriolet about 5 years ago. 6 months into not driving it, and I was going through withdrawls. The old adage you don't know what you got till it's gone definitely applies to an M3 (e92 or e46!)

Strongly suggest you consider an X5m or X6m. Find a CPO if you don't want to buy one new...I had an X6 50i and that SAV was a beast, but not in the same league as the Xm's are

Don't get me wrong in that the X3 is a wonderful vehicle and a nice ED driver...Am loving my new X3 28i - but it ain't going to tickle the same bonz as an M vehicle