99 M Roadster - buy or leave it?

dschwalm · 10-20-2010, 11:53 AM

Hi all,

I am looking at a 99 M Roadster for a weekend car. If I put 2-3K miles a year it would be a lot. It is in very good shape, A/C replaced and new tires, the top works, etc. It has 99k miles and it drove great. Of course, I would get a PPI done by a BMW mechanic that I use. I can get the car for $8-8.5K so I think that is a good deal if all checks out OK.

BTW, I have an E36 M3 with 140k miles so I am comfortable working on the S52 engine and do most of my own maintenance. So far the engine and tranny have been bulletproof as well. (I looked at an older 911 but the potential maint. costs scared me away!)

Now, I am have heard and read about the rear frame horror stories. That kinda makes me want to walk away.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

rwsams · 10-26-2010, 09:52 AM

I have a 99 M Roadie that I drive daily and enjoy a great deal. I have also autocrossed and tracked the car. It's quick and after 4 years and some upgrades, it handles great is very reliable.

HOWEVER.....................................

I have also had the rear subframe repaired using the Randy Forbes kit by an experienced shop in the East Bay. (I live in northern California)

I don't know the reliable probabilities that this car will develop this problem, but I think it's safe to say that most that have been driven the way I've used mine will develop this problem eventually. If you get a PPI, make absolutely sure that the shop knows this problem and can spot the telltales.

It cost almost $4k to get fixed.

If the car has been repaired by a quality shop using Randy's kit, you have no worries.

If not, I would consider the cost of the repair as part of your purchase. I suspect at $8-9k, it has not been fixed.

I love my car. I probably would not buy another unrepaired one.

Make sure you read the subframe thread on the z3 forum on Bimmerforums.

Bob S.
Davis, CA