Looking to buy a used M3...

fastbutcurious · 05-10-2009, 03:25 AM

I'm looking at this 2003 M3 Convertible with 28,632 miles on it for $26,880.
I'm either getting that, leasing a 328i(zmp, ipod, alarm, coral red, nav), or buying a new 128i(zmp, ipod alarm, coral red)

I just want to know if the M3 will have problems with its current mileage and if I'll be spending a lot on its maintenance.

I also want your suggestions on if i should buy the used m3, lease a 328i, or buy a new 128i.
Will the M3 last 5 more years?

Bikerjoy · 05-10-2009, 10:37 AM

SOOOO many factors involved in what you are asking. As far as the used M3 goes 28k miles in not that much for a 2003, if the car is in good shape it can last for way more than 5 years with proper maintenance. But it is just one of those things buying a used performance car, you never know how they have been driven and taken care of.

signes · 05-10-2009, 12:07 PM

I came from a 2002 M3 Vert and loved it (miss my old car...) As te other post said, highly dependent on the actual car (get an independent BMW mechanic to do an inspection for you.) As a general rule for 2003, try and get one that is a "2003.5". You can tell by the taillights (among other things) - halfway through the model year they added LED tail lights. There are other changes that would be nice to have as well. You can also tell by the build date - if it is 2/03 or later, it should be the 2003.5. The most important reason for getting a later 03 build is that it will be out of the window for the rod bearing issues that 2002 and a few early 03s suffered from. Do a Google search about those.

A final note - this forum is for the newer style E9X M3s - you can find more info and input on the E46 specific forum, here or on other boards.

05-10-2009, 03:25 AM	#1
fastbutcurious ara 4 Rep 38 Posts Drives: TBD Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Glendale, Ca iTrader: (0)	Looking to buy a used M3... I'm looking at this 2003 M3 Convertible with 28,632 miles on it for $26,880. I'm either getting that, leasing a 328i(zmp, ipod, alarm, coral red, nav), or buying a new 128i(zmp, ipod alarm, coral red) I just want to know if the M3 will have problems with its current mileage and if I'll be spending a lot on its maintenance. I also want your suggestions on if i should buy the used m3, lease a 328i, or buy a new 128i. Will the M3 last 5 more years? Last edited by fastbutcurious; 05-10-2009 at 04:34 AM..
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05-10-2009, 10:37 AM	#2
Bikerjoy Private 11 Rep 95 Posts Drives: 2008 M3 Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: OK iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 E90 M3 [0.00]	SOOOO many factors involved in what you are asking. As far as the used M3 goes 28k miles in not that much for a 2003, if the car is in good shape it can last for way more than 5 years with proper maintenance. But it is just one of those things buying a used performance car, you never know how they have been driven and taken care of. __________________ 2008 M3, Jerez Black, Premium Package, Technology Package, Moon Roof, Heated Seats, iPod adapter, SAT radio, Enhanced Premium Sound.
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05-10-2009, 12:07 PM	#3
signes Brigadier General 199 Rep 4,318 Posts Drives: 991 GT3 RS Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Living at (almost...) 9k iTrader: (5)	I came from a 2002 M3 Vert and loved it (miss my old car...) As te other post said, highly dependent on the actual car (get an independent BMW mechanic to do an inspection for you.) As a general rule for 2003, try and get one that is a "2003.5". You can tell by the taillights (among other things) - halfway through the model year they added LED tail lights. There are other changes that would be nice to have as well. You can also tell by the build date - if it is 2/03 or later, it should be the 2003.5. The most important reason for getting a later 03 build is that it will be out of the window for the rod bearing issues that 2002 and a few early 03s suffered from. Do a Google search about those. A final note - this forum is for the newer style E9X M3s - you can find more info and input on the E46 specific forum, here or on other boards.
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