[IssOK]

Hey guys,

I am looking to buy a car, but I am torn between three cars. Which car do you think is the best option?

1. 2002 BMW M3 Convertible (Laguna Seca Blue/Gray Nappa Leather) - 20k Miles (Manual & Navigation)
2. 2007 BMW 328xi Coupe (Alpine White/Cream Beige Leather) - 26k Miles (Automatic & No Navigation)
3. 2007 BMW 328xi Coupe (Alpine White/Black Leather) - 46k Miles (Manual & Navigation)

The prices are basically the same for all three of these cars.
I like the design of the new coupe especially with MT and Navigation, but the car already has 46k miles on the clock.
The e46 M3, though it is 7 year old car, only has 20k miles and looks brand new. Not to mention, it is a M and has 333 HP. The only problem is LSB is a very bold color and look somewhat dated(?).

Anyways, share your thoughts or experiences. It would help me tremendously.

[niqui]

car 1, imho

[Nawaaz]

tough choice, but probably choice #1 since:

-It only has 20k miles
-It has a manual tranny
-It is defintely the most fun car to drive out of the 3
-And because it's.........An M3!!!

[DOCTOR 3VIL]

I would go for the LSB M3 without even thinking twice.....and LSB is dated? What are you talking about bro? It's one of the best ///M colors out there.
You know what........just get your 328 and be done with it...........jesus

[graider]

#1 hands down

[SUB-ZERO]

1. for sure.

-SZ

[chd2]

I would say 1 but suprised to see the price of all are about the same. So if possible, 1 for less money?!

Good luck, they are all 3 nice cars!

[Drew Stahlgrau]

.4 None of the above.

No offense, all good cars, but represent the least desirable of their series.

Personally, I'm somewhat biased against the M3 convertibles- (weight, safety and handling compromises -not to mention the "poseur" factor) as it seems contradictory to the M3's original purpose. Yes, I know people buy them, however it has been well stated that the "M" is now more representative of marketing rather than motorsport. Again, I admit my bias as an E30 M3 traditionalist. (No flames please.)
Less subjectively, also note the that the convertibles resale value is directly correlated to this lessened desirability as evidenced by their lower prices than similarly equipped coupes. Here in the Sunshine State where 'verts sold new aplenty they seemingly fetch less used than coupes of the same ilk despite the original price premium.I adore my E46 M3 coupe and most enthusiasts appreciate the additional rigidity and onelessthingtogowrong reality factor of buying a preowned German car presumably out of warranty.
It's puzzling that you would simultaneously compare a rear wheel drive convertible with a newer but comparatively underpowered four wheel drive coupe. If you're in the snow belt and need the traction, I think the choice is clear. The E92 coupe, comparatively speaking, will feel like its carved out of granite from an overall rigidity standpoint. However, it is also the smallest engine in the U.S. range with the additional weight penalty of four wheel drive mechanicals. Dynamically, it would be far less satisfying than the aforementioned E46 M3 convertible having far less power, four wheel drive understeer and increased ride height.
The solution? I suggest you opt for the better of the breeds. Narrow your selection to e46 m3 coupes and perhaps preowned e90 330i sedans which are at comparable pricepoints. Both offer a performance advantage over their series counterparts. From there, it becomes a little more subjective based on your tastes and needs. The economic climate of the market affords such a plethora of choices that one has the luxury of being both patient and picky. Don't limit yourself to just three choices!

To me, its M3 coupe vs 330i (or 335i in same price range) again unless you REALLY need four wheel traction.

I like the e90/92 cars, but I'd go for the E46 M3.

But that's just my two cents!

[mikeokimster]

I highly recommend that you drive all three. See what suits your lifestyle the best and that is the only true way you will know what you like/dislike.

[!Xoible]

1

[imballin2day]

1

[DevJ]

1

[dr.jay]

Uno

[MVF4Rrider]

1, but pretty high mileage compared to mine

LSB is a highly desire color and most would kill for it...

[Johnny Lin]

1

[Scorpion]

///M3

[spicoli024]

M3 FTMFW

[sippinblkgold]

I was torn between '03.5 m3 and '06 330i w/ sport package. after driving both i decided on the 330i. I'd drive both if u haven't already. The e90 felt better build and it is cheaper to maintain and if you get a 330i or 335i w/ sport..its not a run of the mill model.

[baarii]

1

[sym16]

apples and oranges. do you really want a vert. if so number one. if not I say keep shopping.

[saeedg48]

........... uhh 1 duhh

[MMMorish]

I'd get the M3. But I'd try to find a low milage coupe instead.