An update after driving a GT500 and g80 m3 for 300+ miles each.
-M3 has an interior that’s 5 levels above the GT500
-GT 500 has sound that is 10 levels above the M3
-practicality, no competition…the m3 blows it out of the water
-looks: subjective, won’t discuss
-performance: m3 will always win because it can put the power down, gt500 just spins and fishtails. From a roll starting at higher speeds, if you have traction Gt500 wins
-transmission: easy win for GT500
-price: tie, both are exactly same. Dealership experience with bmw is better than Ford.
-value retention: GT500 wins
-handling: m3 wins for most drivers, for pros with properly heated tires on track the gt500 will take it
Summary: these are two different cars, if you drive more the m3 will suit most people. If you want a weekend toy for fun, want to rev your engine and enjoy that beautiful exhuast note…then GT500 wins. Keep in mind the gt500 demands respect or it can be dangerous, while the m3 is much easier to manage and you’re less likely to end up in a ditch vs the GT500. Simply put for most of us it's easier to drive the M3 and easier to put its power down without feeling nervous.
Edit: 5 second clips of the two cars I'm comparing
https://youtube.com/shorts/lXur7Ik8_EM?feature=share
https://youtube.com/shorts/7dWXFx5kBKI?feature=share