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      06-06-2013, 12:54 PM   #1
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Conv cheaper than coupe

I've started shopping for a used M3 (yay! after like 20 years of longing) and noticed that convertibles are either around the same or even cheaper than similarly spec'd (year, miles) coupes. Any particular reasons for that or do they just depreciate that much faster? MSRP difference is around 7-8K so that seems like a big depreciation.
Or does it have to do with typical M3 buyers wanting less weight, more rigidity, better handling that make convs less desirable?
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      06-06-2013, 12:58 PM   #2
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It's because e93's aren't real M3's (Sarcasm)
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      06-06-2013, 01:09 PM   #3
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It just depends where you are and what season it is. In a place where you can keep the top down most of the year they seem to hold their value more.

From my experience in Atlanta with comparable vehicles, they are more expensive than coupes.

I would say overall its a wash usually over the 3 body types.. features, color combination and condition seem to play in the most.. as they should.
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      06-06-2013, 01:27 PM   #4
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Lots of reasons why it's only a bit more expensive.

With top up, the E93 styling is a bit awkward as compared to E92 (and I own E93, first a 335i and now an M3). Buying such a car used it's all about style and performance. If you are buying for style, the E93 is just not quite there. If buying for performance the E92 is better (much lighter and stiffer).

Secondarily, the convertible top has the potential to be a huge liability should there be a problem and the car is out of warranty (and the top (except for motor) is not covered by CPO). However, with this top having been around since 2007, I have heard very, very little problems (apart from the frayed cord problem which might only affect the headliner's cosmetic cover).

If you like top down driving, and really hearing that engine, and don't mind the awkward styling with top up, there is no comparison and worth the couple grand more in price used (about $8650 difference new).
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      06-06-2013, 01:28 PM   #5
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coupe holds the best resale value. Convertible is heavier and noticeable slower.
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      06-06-2013, 02:04 PM   #6
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i wouldn't buy a convertible, but then again, it's all about what you look for in this car.
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      06-06-2013, 03:12 PM   #7
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My wife has a conv so I doubt we will get another one but there seems to be quite a few out there for sale with better prices than e92s so it is kinda tempting.

And, I live in Chicago so I get maybe a day or two to enjoy with the top down.
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      06-06-2013, 03:17 PM   #8
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Just look at convertible versions of any used car. All the convertibles sell for less than the comparable coupe. The E46 M3 is a prime example of that. You can get a convertible for a lot less than the coupe.

In used cars, people don't want to deal with the possible issues that come with a used convertible top. Also convertibles are more likely to have more worn interiors as people drive with the top down having the elements and sun beat down on the interior. The proportions are also a bit weird and bubbly looking with the top up compared to the coupe.
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      06-06-2013, 03:29 PM   #9
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In NC and TN convertibles are more expensive than coupes when they set-up equally. I own a convertible, I bought it because to ME the "styling" looks better than the coupe. Having the top down on the parkway and in and around the city is a big plus to me, and the engine sound is incredible. I like the versatility, is like having two cars in one.

I suppose that it all has to do with who is your buyer, if he wants a convertible, it'll be hard to sell him a coupe and vice-versa. Buy the one you like the most!
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      06-06-2013, 03:56 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by RogeM3 View Post
In NC and TN convertibles are more expensive than coupes when they set-up equally. I own a convertible, I bought it because to ME the "styling" looks better than the coupe. Having the top down on the parkway and in and around the city is a big plus to me, and the engine sound is incredible. I like the versatility, is like having two cars in one.

I suppose that it all has to do with who is your buyer, if he wants a convertible, it'll be hard to sell him a coupe and vice-versa. Buy the one you like the most!
I have to agree with you, I also have a vert and once you tape the chrome trim and ad some nice wheels to me it looks a lot better than the coupe, I have a set of bbs e88's wheels I'm putting on, I 'll post pics soon, tell me what you think, I think you will change your mind.
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      06-06-2013, 04:07 PM   #11
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Its because the convertible M3 is the LEAST desirable model. This is fact.
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      06-06-2013, 04:30 PM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Wolfinwolfsclothing View Post
Its because the convertible M3 is the LEAST desirable model. This is fact.
I'm pretty sure BMW sold more convertible M3's than the E90 M3 when they were both around. I think I saw it in an old Roundel issue. I was surprised.
I know BMW will HEAVILY discount the E93 when it comes to leasing one to move them. They're way too expensive to buy.
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      06-06-2013, 06:18 PM   #13
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I noticed the same thing when I was looking for a M3. I tend to think that a lot more lease returns end up being convertibles also.
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      06-06-2013, 07:13 PM   #14
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I totally disagree with your styling opinion, I have a e93 and with the top up i think it looks amazing, especially when all the windows are down and u have all that window area open and when the top is down " pure sex" you clearly hear that engine roaring and exhaust , everyone stops and looks and it's a 10+ with the ladies.. E93 ftw in my opinion

Quote:
Originally Posted by mpp View Post
Lots of reasons why it's only a bit more expensive.

With top up, the E93 styling is a bit awkward as compared to E92 (and I own E93, first a 335i and now an M3). Buying such a car used it's all about style and performance. If you are buying for style, the E93 is just not quite there. If buying for performance the E92 is better (much lighter and stiffer).

Secondarily, the convertible top has the potential to be a huge liability should there be a problem and the car is out of warranty (and the top (except for motor) is not covered by CPO). However, with this top having been around since 2007, I have heard very, very little problems (apart from the frayed cord problem which might only affect the headliner's cosmetic cover).

If you like top down driving, and really hearing that engine, and don't mind the awkward styling with top up, there is no comparison and worth the couple grand more in price used (about $8650 difference new).
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      06-06-2013, 07:47 PM   #15
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Buy a real M3
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      06-06-2013, 09:25 PM   #16
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Because an E93 ain't a real M3. That's the truth
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      06-06-2013, 11:19 PM   #17
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Yeah yeah, too heavy and too slow... whatever!! Top down... windows down... revs up in the 5-8k range... very few cars under $100k can make me smile like the E93 M3!
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      06-07-2013, 12:31 AM   #18
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Obviously a regional thing, in Cali the convertibles aren't cheaper. In places like Chicago where there's about 30 minutes of good convertible weather in a year, they aren't going to sell at a premium.
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      06-07-2013, 12:47 AM   #19
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Quote:
Originally Posted by SWOT1 View Post
Yeah yeah, too heavy and too slow... whatever!! Top down... windows down... revs up in the 5-8k range... very few cars under $100k can make me smile like the E93 M3!
Well said and E93 is not a slow car, with the top down you can hear the engine sound roar above 5K range

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Originally Posted by SD-E93-11 View Post
Obviously a regional thing, in Cali the convertibles aren't cheaper. In places like Chicago where there's about 30 minutes of good convertible weather in a year, they aren't going to sell at a premium.
True convertibles in CA hold their value compare with other regions.
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      06-07-2013, 12:58 AM   #20
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Originally Posted by Red_Baron View Post
It's because e93's aren't real M3's (Sarcasm)
Behind every sarcastic thought lies some truth
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      06-07-2013, 01:25 AM   #21
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^
That's odd, because mine came with the same M3 badge on the back as yours. I've seen that same badge on some sedans as well.

I guess BMW forgot to check with you first - as the self-proclaimed arbiter of all things M.
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      06-07-2013, 01:49 AM   #22
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^^^^ Convertible owners are so insecure and sensitive lol JK
OP. if you are buying the car to show off, buy the e93, if you want to get performance out of your car and this magnificent engine, buy e90 or e92.
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