Thinking of 1996 M3

[clnilsen]

I looked over the weekend at a 79K 1996 M3. It seemed pretty streight, but the dealer wanted 21k for it. Despit it being an M car, at the milage I thought that was a little steep.

It wasn't exactly loaded with options (i.e. no CD, etc) so i had a little difficulty accounting for the price.

Any thoughts on these cars, things to look for, or something else to look for that would be better/cheeper than this?

Thanks!

Chuck

[Wayne 962]

Hi there. Based on what I've seen around here, that doesn't sound like a terribly bad deal. I've seen the M3s with similar mileage for about $23-$25.

What exactly are you looking for with the car? You can pick up an earlier 325is for about $10K (half the cost), but then you don't get the added M3 performance. Either way, the E36 chassis cars are a great way to go.

Also check www.recylcer.com for a listing of current prices on M3s here in SoCal. This will give you a good idea of what to expect and what to pay...

-Wayne

[spinner]

21K for a 96 M3 from a dealer sounds OK as long as they offer you some reasonable warranty. You could probably find something under 20K (95-96 M3) but expect higher mileage. My brother has a 95 M3 with UUC roll bars, exhaust, H&R springs etc and it is simply amazing to drive. One day I will do that to my 97 328i. Also it depends on what you're looking for. If you want a pocket rocket at a low price, look for a E30 M3. On the other hand, if you want a moderate mileage 95-97 M3 with the lux package, expect to pay in the mid 20s. Can't go wrong either way.
Have fun

Paul
97 328i
87 Carrera

[Wayne 962]

I predict that as the popularity of E36s in the used market increases, the M3s will hold their value better than the rest of the cars. Besides, I'm not terribly fond of the E46 M3...

-Wayne

[BMW Marc]

You need to find out the history on the car prior to spending that kind of money with a dealer. I would recommend finding an owner that is the 1st or second owner. You will be able to learn more about the history, get a better feel for how the car may have been driven dealing one on one with the previous owner. I myself would not buy a used car from a dealer without a great warrantee. Warantee is key!! Bargain for that w/ the dealer If they fight you hard on it, most likely the car has problems.

Read roundel magazine classifieds. Most of the owners take pretty good care of the cars.

Good luck.

[Wayne 962]

That's good advice, although I have indeed found that these cars are driven hard, but well cared for by their owners. The cars are too new and still expensive enought to be beaten to hell, and/or owned by people who can't afford the maintenance.

One owner car here is the key, hopefully by some woman (no offense) who didn't drive it too hard...

-Wayne