More Want to Purchase an E36 M3 Questions

[duke3282]

I am currently looking to purchase an 97-98 M3 (I want 4 doors) as a daily driver. I currently have an 81 911 SC and am looking for something thats almost as fun to drive but a more comfortable. Most of the M3's available have about 100K on them and I am wondering how reasonable it is to expect to get another 100K without serious work. Also how easy are they to work on. With this forum, and 101 projects I can do about anything on the 911. Can I expect similar results for the M3 or will I have to spend more time (and $) at the shop. From current owners, how much do you estimate maintenance costs per year. Thanks for your help.

[Jeron]

Expect to replace:
Radiator (the thingy with the ethyl glycol) 100k
Clutch 100k
Plastic thermostat housing (replace it with a metal one) 100k
Suspension bushings 70-100k
Power reclining seats have a plastic cog that breaks but you can now get a replacement from the guy that makes gears for Porsche speedos
I don't know how often engine overhauls take place but at 200k it will probably be ready. That is a job for a mechanic, IMHO.

The resources for BMW DIY are on par with those of Porsche. You can do just about anything yourself and the difficulty is not much more than on the 911.

I think $500 in parts a year is about right but you will probably end up buying some performance items and spend a bit more at first.

[dboyles]

From what I've read, the radiator may go as early as 60k miles, and getting 100k out of them seems to be a bit of a stretch. I wouldn't be as worried about it if the coolant temperature gauge didn't essentially have three readings: cold, operating temperature, and your engine is melting. I agree with everything else (plus or minus, obviously).

If you read too many internet forums and try to follow everybody's advice to the letter, you'll spend thousands replacing stuff that people swear will go bad at some insanely low mileage interval. If you buy a car that's in good shape and keep an eye on it (and don't abuse it), you'll be fine.

[Eli at Pelican Parts]

I have both and I spend more $$$ on the Porsche for replacement parts (THEY ARE JUST MORE EXPENSIVE).... You know..... The BMW has always needed small things and the prices are cheaper considering.... Brakes on a 996 are over $1,000 alone, the BMw M3 doesn't even come close.....

I would expect to save money on the new car......

I have an auto 80 some K on the clock.... Interested. 1997