Evo or m3
Aug 29, 2010, 11:59 AM
#2
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When I was looking for an Evo X, I was also considering a used (2005-06) E46 m3. Those two are kinda similar in price.
I loved the M3 but they are a maintenance nightmare outside of warranty. There is a serious problem with the VANOS valvetrain, left uncorrected and it is guaranteed to grenade. Another expensive issue is the SMG hydraulic pump; assuming you had that tranny. The pump is notorious for failing and when it does, you are looking at something like $3200+ for the pump alone; not include install @ $100/hour at the BMW dealer.
Those are the two large maintenance issues, but there are numerous other smaller issues that would consistently have the car in the shop. Rubber trim issues, failed power window motors, failed power seats, failed water pump (common), and the little bull**** things go on and on... Check out a M3 forum. I was reading a thread that had everyone post their maintenance issues. The list was extensive.
My brother's fiance's father owns a BMW dealer in eastern PA, and he wouldn't even sell me a BMW. He kept saying they are nothing but a headache.
If I had the money, I would buy a brand spankin' new M3 in the blink of an eye; but alas I don't have that kinda coin.
I loved the M3 but they are a maintenance nightmare outside of warranty. There is a serious problem with the VANOS valvetrain, left uncorrected and it is guaranteed to grenade. Another expensive issue is the SMG hydraulic pump; assuming you had that tranny. The pump is notorious for failing and when it does, you are looking at something like $3200+ for the pump alone; not include install @ $100/hour at the BMW dealer.
Those are the two large maintenance issues, but there are numerous other smaller issues that would consistently have the car in the shop. Rubber trim issues, failed power window motors, failed power seats, failed water pump (common), and the little bull**** things go on and on... Check out a M3 forum. I was reading a thread that had everyone post their maintenance issues. The list was extensive.
My brother's fiance's father owns a BMW dealer in eastern PA, and he wouldn't even sell me a BMW. He kept saying they are nothing but a headache.
If I had the money, I would buy a brand spankin' new M3 in the blink of an eye; but alas I don't have that kinda coin.
Last edited by Kiloalpha; Aug 29, 2010 at 12:02 PM.
Aug 30, 2010, 06:06 AM
#7
I went from an Evo to an M3, as already said it gets boring very quickly. Needless to say I'm back in an Evo now.
The servicing was around the same cost, given the extended serving intervals of the BM, but again as already said if anything goes wrong it's big bucks.
One of the more common faults on the E46 is the rear subframe tearing away from the boot floor.
The servicing was around the same cost, given the extended serving intervals of the BM, but again as already said if anything goes wrong it's big bucks.
One of the more common faults on the E46 is the rear subframe tearing away from the boot floor.
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Aug 30, 2010, 10:57 AM
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I had a 2002 M3 before and it was a nice car. M3 is very hard to gain any extra power without tons of money put in. Also valve adjustment cost a fortune.
Pro: Looks good and chicks dig it. Handleing and braking feels amazing. BMW makes you seem more like a balla. More luxeries.
Con: Exhaust rasp sounds like poop. Maintenance is very expensive. No spare tire. Gets smoked a by a lightly modded evo.
Pro: Looks good and chicks dig it. Handleing and braking feels amazing. BMW makes you seem more like a balla. More luxeries.
Con: Exhaust rasp sounds like poop. Maintenance is very expensive. No spare tire. Gets smoked a by a lightly modded evo.
Aug 30, 2010, 11:57 AM
#9
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It depends on which Evo and which M3 you're talking about. I've owned two Evos (currently a IX SE) and have driven E46 M3s (the previous generation), and I would never buy that over my car. The new one is a different story, but it costs a lot more than I can comfortably afford... but the handling numbers that it puts up combined with 414 hp does make it very intriguing. Some folks consider its looks a little too flashy, but I'm in my late 20s, so I actually like it.
Please give more information regarding which models you're discussing, because it seems like everyone is assuming you are talking about the E46 model (which makes sense).
Please give more information regarding which models you're discussing, because it seems like everyone is assuming you are talking about the E46 model (which makes sense).
Aug 30, 2010, 12:21 PM
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Aug 30, 2010, 12:26 PM
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Aug 30, 2010, 01:06 PM
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New M3 does not look as good as the E46 M3 IMO.
Yes, M3 gets you more ***** and so does G35. Girls dont notice EVO and probably dont even know whats a turbo.
Its obvious he is talking about E46 M3 because he said "same price range".
Yes, M3 gets you more ***** and so does G35. Girls dont notice EVO and probably dont even know whats a turbo.
Its obvious he is talking about E46 M3 because he said "same price range".