Always liked these cars, prices are very low. Anyone here have experience with them?

 

Yeah,I have one.
Get the newest you can find.
Competition pkg is a must.
Do not buy SMG.
Check the rear subframe for cracks.
Make sure the proper oil has been used.
Check Vanos/Valve adjustment.
Very fun cars. High revving(8K) NA engines-S54.
Brakes are good,especially the Comp Pkg but don't hold on track.

 

Finding a good unmolested E46 is not that easy. Buy the owner and not a car. No need carbon fiber but just what Neanicu said: 2005 competition package with manual. Both inspection I and II are done, frame reinforced, rod bearing for 01-02' cars is done...

Imagine: you can carry all your track tires inside, S54 is not that expensive. They do understaer crazy but we a right set up is poorer blast! Also tires like 275 on each corner: Cayman money.

 

google e46 fanatics - then go to m3 section

more info than you could ever want there

 

Just sold my E46 M3 which I had for 8 years before hopping into my P-Car. I had 134k miles on it with no real issues. Only money I spent on it were for maintenance and wear and tear items. You cant go wrong as it's a GREAT car, but listen to all the previous advice.

 

Nice car, one of the last M3's before BMW was completely lobotomized by Bangle. Agree with everything above, particularly the sub-frame and Vanos adjustment. If you're going to use it on the track it is a blast and competitive with a 997.1 (not better or worse, just competitive); in my experience though not so much compared with a 997.2 GTS. (Me, being a mediocre driver in my GTS, had no problem staying with a good Spec Miata racer piloting an E46 at Laguna Seca.)

 

One of the best na engines ever imho. Can't really add anything to previous comments, but read up on rear subframe issues!

 

Thought you are looking for a GTS, it'll be a downgrade for sure. My brother in law has one, I've driven it, it's a nice car but no Porsche.

 

Rear subframe problems
VANOS problems
SMG problems
Alcantara interior wears HORRIBLY

 

I have one, and its the only car I enjoy almost as much as a Porsche 911...like the 911s I have, I intend to Never sell it...its adictive. The quality of the car is better than a E92. For me its the best M3 ever made, more Powerfull than the E30 ( underpowered), and more light/ nimble feel than the E92 with its heavy V8...

 

Overall great quality, fun cars. I had a 6 speed but like stated above, stay FAR away from SMG. My brother just had his SMG serviced. A $3k+ job when it fails, and it is not guaranteed that it wont fail again after repair.

 

Great cars, avoid SMG as everyone stats but be careful and inspect, inspect, inspect. A lot of them had the crap run out of them and while it looks good on the outside, is a bucket of problems waiting

 

BMW?!?

 

I brought a 06 comp package (zcp) last year. Specifically for track use since my 911 is a DD.

Its a great car and l plan to keep it for a while. As everyone says there are 3 main items to look for when you buy 1.

1. Subframe. If the previous owner didn't take care of it, you need to do it. Every car no matter the mileage will have issues eventually. $1500-2000.00 out the door to fix. You usually change all bushings when you get this done.

2. Vanos. There is a kit to update the vanos. Not every car has that problem but you're know when its happening (I.e. you'll hear it)

3. Rod bearing. Only issue for cars before the 2003.5 refresh. The good thing, it was a free fix from BMW via warranty so most cars by now should have had it done.

DIY ability and options to upgrade this car is plentiful. 05 & 06 with comp package are asking for more money these days so be ready with your money and strike if you find one cause it won't last long.

 

I have one as a track rat,it's great.Also comfortable to drive to and from the track,plenty of room for your gear.