328i, m3 mantenence cost differences and hi!

[sey306]

ok im hooked on this forum already! wow, an amazing amount of info here and people seem to realy know what they are talking about (rare in the automobile trade!) im loving it here.

ok my prob. so im on the market for a used e36 328i. i got about 8-9k for a good car (seen lots at this price range). however whilst searching iv seen alot of good M3s in this price range also and am beginning to sway in that direction but am a little weary of maintenence cost differences in the two models.

iv done some research and whilst servicing, petrol, road tax insurance doesnt seem to vary that much from a 328i is there anything im missing? are there any extra costs waiting to surprise me with an M3 that wouldnt with a 328i?

the m3 is a better car so whilst the option is available, i should take it right?

thanks.

 

[knightpitt]

That's the question I was asking myself recently when I was looking for my car. What you'll find is that M3 specific parts do cost significantly more than 328i parts. Used M3's also have a tendency to have been driven harder -- there's more middle-aged ladies driving around 328's than there are with M3's.

Overall, though, I don't think that the difference is going to end up being terribly bad. Obviously it will cost a bit more, but I decided for myself that it was worthwhile.

BTW, feel lucky that you get the euro version of the M3 there. Our US M3's only got 240hp as compared to the 286 that you got. <sigh>

 

[Big Daddy]

Sey306 welcome and thanks for the kind words about our members here. I believe Ben has given you some good sound advice. Considering the difference in performance and the fun factor I'd spend a little extra in maintaining the car and buy an M3. Again welcome and enjoy!

 

[Tom]

The parts will be a little bit more, but I think maintenance wise it shouldn't be that much difference. I have an E46 M3 and my insurance rate is only $540 every six months. So it all really depends on your driving record.

 

[sey306]

thanks guys for all the sound advice and the welcomes.

 

[///M SPEED]

Welcome to the board and good luck with your choice....