Buying BMW 3-Series NEED HELP

[Dr556]

This is somewhat early to be researching and planning out my purchase, but I would rather become an expert on what to look for in a BMW than buy one without any knowledge. So here's the deal. I'm going to be buying a used BMW in mid May of 2015. Now I know this is months away, but as I said before I need to compile as much information as I can before I purchase.

The BMW model that I am going to buy is a 3-Series and the only thing I need help with is choosing the trim level of the 3-Series. I'm either going to purchase a 335i convertible, an M3 coupe, or an M3 convertible. The reason being is because I really want a hardtop convertible and the 3-series verts are awesome. I would take an M3 coupe over an M3 vert only if it was better in every other way. The 335i is on the list because its still a great vert, good gas mileage, still fast.

I would like input from everyone on here which would be the best route to go. The car I really want is an E93 M3. Black or grey paint. black,grey,fox or interior. I don't want a manual transmission. However if i found the right car that was an E92 M3 or a 335i vert i would consider one of those instead. So what are you guys' opinions on each of the cars I listed. When buying one of these used what should i look for to make sure the car is good to go. Just give me as much info on these 2 cars as you can.

Also as a bonus list any mods or upgrades that are necessary on the M3. A nice exhaust is on my list once i purchase the car. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

[///M Power-Belgium]

Originally Posted by Dr556

This is somewhat early to be researching and planning out my purchase, but I would rather become an expert on what to look for in a BMW than buy one without any knowledge. So here's the deal. I'm going to be buying a used BMW in mid May of 2015. Now I know this is months away, but as I said before I need to compile as much information as I can before I purchase.

The BMW model that I am going to buy is a 3-Series and the only thing I need help with is choosing the trim level of the 3-Series. I'm either going to purchase a 335i convertible, an M3 coupe, or an M3 convertible. The reason being is because I really want a hardtop convertible and the 3-series verts are awesome. I would take an M3 coupe over an M3 vert only if it was better in every other way. The 335i is on the list because its still a great vert, good gas mileage, still fast.

I would like input from everyone on here which would be the best route to go. The car I really want is an E93 M3. Black or grey paint. black,grey,fox or interior. I don't want a manual transmission. However if i found the right car that was an E92 M3 or a 335i vert i would consider one of those instead. So what are you guys' opinions on each of the cars I listed. When buying one of these used what should i look for to make sure the car is good to go. Just give me as much info on these 2 cars as you can.

Also as a bonus list any mods or upgrades that are necessary on the M3. A nice exhaust is on my list once i purchase the car. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

Just drop the money and buy the ///M3E92 !
Why ?
It weighs less , and so it's faster,,consumes less, with bonus of CF roof !

[Amirsm3]

I think you need to test drive these cars and figure out what you like the best.

[brianpdx]

Originally Posted by Dr556

Also as a bonus list any mods or upgrades that are necessary on the M3. A nice exhaust is on my list once i purchase the car. Any other suggestions would be appreciated.

"Necessary" mods is entirely subjective. One guy might tell you his VT-625 is a necessity. Another guy might say his bright pink Volk TE 37s were necessary. All I can tell you is that "necessary" mods for me were tint and upgrading the angel eyes to LED. That's it. Anything else is just a bonus.

[Dr556]

Originally Posted by brianpdx

"Necessary" mods is entirely subjective. One guy might tell you his VT-625 is a necessity. Another guy might say his bright pink Volk TE 37s were necessary. All I can tell you is that "necessary" mods for me were tint and upgrading the angel eyes to LED. That's it. Anything else is just a bonus.

thats what i was looking for. tint and leds are definitely on my list.

[quiksi]

if you like verts... you can't go wrong with the M3 - it will sound glorious with the top down

[happos2]

On an M3 forum, I am pretty sure you will get a lot of people that will tell you to buy the M3. As for E92 vs E93...people like them for what they are, others say don't bother because they add too much weight. You really need to drive the M3 vs a 335i to see what the difference is.

[canukgtp]

if you have the money for an M3 convertible...get the M3 convertible...done and enjoy!

[mike@x-ph.com]

Very tough decision and it will depend what you are looking for.
I wanted a car that does not cost a lot and for a less than 2K worth of mods can get me 440+whp and lots of tq. That is why i went with a 335.
The M3 on the other hand handles a lot better, amazing V8 sound, looks more aggressive (not that you cant get the 335 to look aggressive with a few mods).
Also the power delivery of both cars is completely different, the 335 will get you power instantly at any rpm while the M3 will not get you power until you reach higher RPMs.
Both great cars.
Keep in mind i am comparing a Stock M3 to a tuned 335.