Welp. I test drove an m3, Cayman S, and a Mercedes SLK 55 AMG. All three were really nice in their own respect. Here are my assessments:

M3 pros:
Incredible engine sound
Fastest 0-60
Great handling
decent steering cpmmunication
4-seats (which I don't really care about, but still)
BMW service package comes standard, oil changes, etc for free
Cheapest car of the three compared
M3 Cons:
Weighs 3700lbs/bulky
Body styling is nice but not awesome
I'm a smaller guy so the car feels really big.
Interior seemed "plasticy", but did have a nice layout

Cayman S pros:
Quick+light
Awesome handling
Excellent steering communication
Body styling
decent interior
Great fit for me
Cayman S cons:
pathetic engine sound at low speeds (sounds like a 4-banger)
Expensive service
Most expensive car of the three compared

SLK 55 AMG Pros:
Quick
Great engine sound
decent handling
great steering input
decent interior
great fit for me
A TON of really neat technology incorporated throughout
Convertible w/ electric hardtop
SLK 55 AMG Cons:
Kinda girly styling- not decided?
expensive service
Kinda slow paddle shifting...i need some input on this

I am aware that these are three very different cars. I'd be interested in more cars in this price range, but I can't think of anything else. Any suggestions? Cars I have no interest in:
GT-R and Z06

The jury is still out on an Exige 240 S, but I imagine I wouldn't be able to live with the 1000 problems that come with a hand-built car, and the punishing ride if I ever wanted to take a day trip somewhere.

Thoughts? Anyone else drive the M3and SLK 55 AMG? Also, there are no Cayman S models around in white that have PASM or PCM. Do they make a drastically big difference in performance? In other words, would a Cayman S without PASM and PCM get the same times at the track?