New BMW M models get your motor revving for used BMW M models from Japan

The next couple of years should be exciting for BMW M enthusiasts because a number of new M models will be released. These models will likely include the BMW M8, M3, X4 M and X3 M in 2019 and the X6 M, X5 M and M2 CS in 2020. That’s a lot to look forward to! 

The world’s first BMW M8 arrives in 2019

One of the most highly anticipated M models appearing in 2019 is the BMW M8 — the first 8 Series M model in the history of BMW. The legendary 8 Series returned in 2018 after a nearly 20-year hiatus and the M-badged model should be a phenomenal machine combining ultimate luxury, innovation and dynamic performance at an unprecedented level. Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Bentley must be shaking in their boots! BMW has confirmed that the BMW M8 will feature the M5’s powerful 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine and a rear-biased xDrive 4×4 system with two-wheel-drive mode. But we all know the M division will go far beyond boosting engine power and traction.

M goes the extra mile

Like AMG at Mercedes-Benz, the M division at BMW seriously modifies standard models to deliver a big performance edge. It typically raises rigidity, reduces weight, widens tracks, lowers the center of gravity, enhances aerodynamics and modifies just about everything related to performance (including the engine, transmission, suspension, steering and brakes) to achieve significant improvements in power and handling. Enthusiasts love BMW M models because they’re so fun to drive. Acceleration is swift and smooth and the exhaust note is even more addictive than from standard BMW models. Handling is taut and balanced with precise steering for a thrilling sense of total control behind the wheel. BMW M models also look impressive in your driveway, where they clearly convey prestige, good taste and a healthy penchant for motoring pleasure. Of course, not all passengers appreciate the taut ride of BMW M models, and maintenance expenses may become frustrating at times. But these are small prices to pay for something so desirable that makes even commuting a joy. Imagine how fun your local serpentine curves and highway stretches will be!

Used BMW M models from Japan

More than a few BMW enthusiasts say they prefer older M models over newer ones because they more clearly prioritize performance over luxury. All we know for sure at Japan Car Direct is that the used models we’ve handled definitely deserve their sporty reputation. We’ve exported many used BMW M models from Japan to countries like Canada, Taiwan and Germany, as well as several classic BMW M models over 25 years old to happy customers in the United States. Almost all of the models we’ve dealt with have been in outstanding condition and very reasonably priced. Those purchased through Japanese used car auctions have been especially affordable.

1988 BMW E30 M3

We purchased this pristine 1988 BMW E30 M3 at a great price through a used car auction in Japan and exported it to a passionate enthusiast abroad who couldn’t have been happier. It was exceptionally well cared for by a Japanese owner who fully appreciated its special place in history and strictly adhered to BMW’s recommended schedules of maintenance and parts replacement. The engine had only 48,752 km on the odometer and the owner can expect to enjoy many years of driving pleasure until it reaches anywhere from 200,000 to 350,000 kilometers. The BMW E30 M3 is unquestionably one of the greatest cars ever made and maintains the title of the most successful touring car in motorsports history. Handling is phenomenal and the high-revving 2.3-liter inline four DOHC engine produces a solid 200 bhp that accelerates the E30 M3 from zero to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds with a 146 mph top speed. The BMW E30 M3 vastly exceeded everyone’s expectations in both European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) racing success and worldwide sales. To the joy of driving enthusiasts everywhere, BMW continued to build five generations of M3s and is still selling new versions today.

2000 BMW M5

This affordable 2000 BMW M5 we exported to a customer in Canada is another example of why enthusiasts around the world choose to import used BMWs from the Japanese used car market. A sports machine through and through, it’s powered by a 5.0-liter all-aluminum DOHC V8 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 395 lb/ft of torque spread flat over a wide range. With the assistance of a reinforced 6-speed transmission, it accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 155 mph that can easily be increased. As a premier German performance car, it was solidly constructed and powerfully endowed to sustain high speeds on German autobahns. But the Japanese owner pampered it on motorways with 100km/h speed limits where winters are mild and no salt is used on the roads. So it was in outstanding condition and performed just like new when we had it in our lucky hands. It was also a left hand drive car, which made it easier for the owner to obtain reasonably priced insurance in Canada.

2000 BMW M Coupe (E36)

This used 2000 BMW M Coupe looked brand spanking new despite having traveled 86,000 kilometers when we purchased and exported it to a customer abroad. It was extremely well maintained by its passionate owner in Japan, who kept everything stock from the handsome alloy wheels to the luxurious blue and black interior. When the BMW M Coupe was released in 1999, many enthusiasts were disappointed with its unorthodox styling. But they came to respect and appreciate its very powerful 3.2-liter straight-six DOHC engine that generates 258 lb/ft of torque and 321 horsepower — nearly 100 hp per liter. That’s enough to move the M Coupe from zero to 60 in 5.3 seconds. A front-heavy configuration makes driving the M Coupe a little more challenging than many other BMWs. But this challenge only adds to the pleasure of driving for many enthusiasts. BMW M Coupes have maintained their value not only because they are cult classics with batmobile front ends, cool “kidney” grilles and flared rear fenders, but also because only 6,318 M Coupes were ever manufactured (1998 – 2002). Importing a used BMW M Coupe from Japan, where first-generation models like this one and even second-generation models remain relatively affordable, can lead to big savings over dealers in other countries.

2012 BMW M5

Here’s a turbocharged 2012 BMW M5 sports sedan we exported abroad that out-accelerates contemporary Countachs. It was purchased at a used car auction in Japan for a reasonable price and was in outstanding condition with only about 38,000 km on the odometer. Masterfully engineered, this model features an outstanding weight distribution and a big, high-revving 4.4-liter twin turbo V8 engine with cutting-edge technology that produces a very impressive 560 horsepower as well as a whopping 502 lb-ft of torque. This remarkable power moves the 2012 BMW M5 from 0 to 60 mph in an official 4.4 seconds that experts at Car and Driver managed to reduce to 3.7 seconds. Maximum speed is 190 mph with the speed limiter removed. When you own a BMW M5, you have definitely arrived. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay an arm and leg to make it happen. Just import one from Japan with a little help from Japan Car Direct.

Contact Japan Car Direct for used BMW M models from Japan

Some of the world’s best deals on used BMW M models can be found in the Japanese used car market, where prices are often lower, vehicles are often in better condition, and the incredible range of choices is hard to beat. This is especially true when taking advantage of Japanese used car auctions. Whether you seek a vintage M model from the 1980s or 1990s, a used M model from more recent years, a left-hand-drive (LHD) M model or a right hand drive (RHD) M model, Japan Car Direct can help you find and import a used BMW from Japan that meets your particular needs. We share your enthusiasm for BMW M models and will help you take advantage of used car auctions, used car dealers, used BMW specialty shops and even private sales to find great used BMWs in your price range. We can also arrange for professional third-party inspections, bid on your behalf, expedite shipping to your nearest port with insured storage and more while keeping you fully informed and answering your every question in English every step of the way. At Japan Car Direct, we’re committed to making the entire process — from finding the used BMW M model in Japan to receiving it in your home country — easy and enjoyable. Why not contact us today and take the first steps toward making everyday driving a joy.