I’ve got a e36 sedan and a e39 540i manual my E 39 is an absolute beast both cars are stock. 540i 5.3 sec e36 m3 5.9
E36 easily out handles my 540(sport models have m5 suspension)
My m3 can hang 60-90mph with it but 0-60 and 90-155 that v8 pulls hard.
Raced a 2011 s4 across a three mile bridge in Seattle and I think the guy was upset at his Audi. We talked at a gas station he thought I had a m5 and then couldn’t believe my car is stock. He did win but he could only creep away.
My m3 makes up time in the corners
Love them both