Well, it seems you nailed it..When I drive the F on the Highway gradually hitting 55-80 MPH without sport mode on and paddle shifters it gets quieter keeping it under 3000 RPM..Then when I pumped and hitting 3500RPM and up obviously the Beast roars..Even then only thing I hear is engine sound nothing else at all..I'm sure some of the guys here who has taken it to the tracks hopefully will respond..In my opinion your call on M3 or the F..If you plan on something overall get the M3 or if you want a straight out drag racer, stick with the F..