yes, somewhat normal (particularly in the wet), but i don't know what that "loud pop" could be...any mods? check the mounts like they mentioned. endlink bolts, strut mount bolts....
stiffer mounts and/or an ETD (Engine Torque Dampener) will help with that (wheel hop) if you're looking for a fix. somebody is working on traction bars for the MS3 so maybe those are gonna be available for the regular 3 as well (i had heard some mention of it in an unrelated topic).