1. Enter the last 7 of the VIN at
http://www.bimmer.work (Isn't playing nice with Chrome for me, but IE worked fine)
2. Easiest way to check visually is to look for the "M Sport" lettering on the inside of the door sill.
View post on imgur.com
Also the anthracite headliner.
3. The M Sport package was the one I really wanted together with the tough to find manual transmission. I also wanted the Navigation iDrive. I don't like the look of aftermarket radios in newer Bimmers and the iDrive has the satellite radio, ability to store mp3s, and Bluetooth streaming I wanted.
The other options are nice though. Rain sensing wipers are hugely convenient here where when it rains, it's rarely consistent. Without them you're changing the speed setting all the time. Heated seats and steering wheel are nice on cold days of course. Comfort access isn't something I looked for but I certainly got used to not ever taking my key out of my pocket. The Homelink is great if you have a garage door opener or gate you use a remote for.