I like the E36 body VS E46.

They are also simple enough to DIY still. (assuming you can weld for the subframe tear ;) )

About 6 months ago I took a step back, sold my non-M e46 5 speed and bought a 1 owner '95 e36 M3, 94k miles. Years ago i owned a similar '95 M3, one of the few cars I've sold and missed. And when i was in the process of buying this one, wondered whether the car would at least match past memories. In a nutshell, I miss the heavier/solid feel of the e46 after a really long week. That said, in the M3, the minute I shift into first that feeling goes away. Both are great cars, it's just that the e36 is more connected to you and the road. The e46 felt "sporty/cushy".

One of my best days was the day I sold my 97. A low mile solid car spun a bearing at 60K and had fault lights for nearly the entire 3 or 4 years I owned. A total pos - first and last BMW.