BMWs can be polarizing, even to car enthusiasts, and they are perhaps most divided over the dynamically excellent but visually unusual M Coupe. Based on the first-generation Z3 roadster, the fixed roof version quickly earned the nickname "breadvan" due to its quirky 2-door mini-wagon profile.

This 2002 BMW M Coupe delivers the same mechanical punch as the potent M3 but in a lighter, lower package. If you like the styling, then this silver bullet will appeal to you immensely, especially since it's a 20,702-mile piece that still carries all its original equipment. Of course, BMW finish quality is quite good, particularly on these limited production M models, which were designed as a halo for the entire lineup. From the deep front air dam to the stylish "gills" in the front fenders designed to recall the famous 507 roadster to the practical hatchback greenhouse, it's a study in contradictions. But that doesn't mean it wasn't loved, because every square inch has been waxed and polished on a regular basis and it was obviously never a daily driver. As a result, there's almost no road rash on the chin or rockers, no parking lot dings in the doors, and beautifully preserved black trim that hasn't been baked in the sun. In short, this car has led a very easy life.

As an M, this coupe's interior is 100% driver-oriented. Deeply bolstered black leather buckets will grip you like their surfaces are covered in Velcro, and the fat leather-wrapped steering wheel transmits the front tires' activities directly to your cerebral cortex. A short-throw 5-speed shifter is the slickest since the Miata's, and every single control is exactly where you want it. Clutch action is light, the gauges are simple and effective (dig the auxiliary gauges in the center stack), and there's very little evidence of regular use, even on high-wear areas like the driver's side seat bolsters. As a BMW, of course niceties like A/C, cruise control, power windows and locks, and a powerful AM/FM/CD stereo are included, as well as a big sunroof that opens things up quite well. And yes, that rear area is actually useful for stowing your gear, from your fire suit for a track day excursion to your luggage for a weekend jaunt down the coast.

The heart of the M Coupe is the same 3.2 liter DOHC inline-six that powered the M3, and it makes the most creamy smooth torque this side of a turbine. It sits canted over at an angle, which lowers both the center of gravity and the hood line, and is fed by six individual throttle bodies for instantaneous response. And with an aftermarket full of power and performance-enhancing modifications, it's quite remarkable to find one that's still carrying all its factory gear, up to and including the air filter. The suspension was also extensively upgraded to deliver eyeball-bouncing cornering without a punishing ride, although it is quite firm as you'd expect. Braking is powerful from oversized 4-wheel discs with both traction control and ABS to make you look like a hero. And the 17-inch wheels with staggered 225/45/17 front and 245/40/17 rear Michelin Pilot Sport radials look positively massive on the compact Coupe.

Fast, fun, rare, and still highly controversial, this M Coupe is the purest distillation of performance, BMW style. Call today!