I'm not saying that my E36 M3 is the greatest car ever, but I have found out it is a very balanced street car. There are many downsides to it: High insurance, expensive parts, expensive aftermarket, etc.
1. I get 30MPG on the intersate and 25MPG in the city
2. The engine note is wonderful at 7K. The stock exhuast is loud only on the outside.
3. It'll do a high 13 to 14 second 1/4 mile. The top end is very impressive.
4. It was Car and Driver's best handling car at any price in 1997 (it beat the 911, F355, NSX, Viper, et al). In stock trim it's more than ready for the track. Wonderful brakes as well.
5. It is comfortable. The ride is harsh but not too bad considering the handling. It's not as quiet as a Buick either. It's geared a little to low for my tastes; 80MPH@3500 RPM
6. It's stylish with out sticking out too much.