Quote:
Originally Posted by Phantom_9192
Hi all-
I am seriously considering buying my dream car in the next couple of days, an M3.
I am looking at an '03 with 44k miles and the SMG. It's a beautiful piece of machinery.
Couple of questions:
I've read up on the SMG, and even though I drive a race car on weekends (when I can  ) I was uh... pretty violent in my test drive. I know I can get to where I'm much smoother with a little practice.
My main questions about the SMG are:
1) is it driveable for my wife in auto mode? I understand that the answer may just be "well she'll have to try it and see".
2) are there any issues with the '03 SMG? How long can I expect it to last?
Couple of other questions:
3) what does a standard oil change, etc. cost from an avg dealership and how often does the car need it?
4) I would like to plan on driving this car past 100k miles... is that realistic for an M3?
5) anything else I should know about the car? Especially problems or concerns, including things to look for? I will likely have it inspected by a BMW dealership in town before I pull the trigger on it.
It's a smoking deal financially and I love the color combo (the Imola red interior even grew on me when I saw the car in person).
All opinions are welcome! This is a big decision for me... I'm in your capable hands. 
Thanks! |
03 is a great year to pick up an e46 M3, its got LED lights and most Rod Bearing issues of the first two years have been address. 44k miles isnt too bad buts it alot considering within a blink of an eye you are pass 50k and close to 60k for the next major maintenance II insp. Which mean money!
... for the inspection, most likely major parts replacement like brakes, pads, rotors, valve adjustment, a average $2-3k figure.
So, for the money you're saving getting a 44k miles car, its out the door.
I suggest getting paying a little more for a 30k or less mileage car.
SMG shouldn't be a driving problem with your wife, I just think of it like my e90 steptronic but much faster/better. I like 6MT better for resale, since it would be easier to fix at non-dealer shops.
Im very happy with my e46 M3 and expect to keep it for awhile... take your time picking one... get a good PPI and carfax.
expect to pay $725-$1200 for maint I or II service, n depends if valve adjustment is needed. I heard this car go well pass 100k miles, but all is depended on how it was driven and maintained. So, if you get a lower mileage car you would know better its life and service history to take it to its old age