[RoundelM3]

I hear you, OP - short drives is the norm for me as well, but our streets and roads are decent. For many of the really short trips, the wife's 228i M-Sport convertible works well, but my F80 M3 is pretty intoxicating. I make it a point to take the F80 on at least a 30-mile round trip once a week that includes some 70-mph speed-limit Interstate extension, some back roads, and some State highways. The two cars are a world of difference apart, but any time I'm going more than 5-10 miles away from the house, the M3 gets the nod. I'd avoid the new G8x M-cars and the G22 4-series, though - still too early in the game and really ugly. The G20 M340i might be a good in-between choice, as it has improved steering, a not-too-firm ride, and almost 400 hp bone stock.