[Rintoul]

hey everyone this is my first post. i am in the market for a M3 (E46) i know they made them for 6 or 7 years and i am wondering what year was the best and the differences between those years and any tips or suggestions. i am looking for either a blue, black, or red M3 it has to be the coupe and has to be manual. i dont know if there is a similar post if so just send me the link thanks in advance and its a pleasure joining the group. thanks

[GreasyGinzo]

03.5 and up have all the newest updates for the e46 chassis. Difference between 03 and 03.5 is the rear view mirror. Oval is 03 and rectangle is 03.5

[ArgM3Jax]

I was in your shoes for months doing research and looking for the right car. My humble advise would be to pull carfaxes, ask a lot of questions, get to know the previous owner (if possible). Something I do is take a look at the vehicle's tires. Mismatch tires are a red flag. If I see a brand new set of michelins on all for corners, that's usually an indication that the previous owner wasn't scared of spending money on the car and doing the proper maintenance. Look at the engine bay's condition, bushings, make sure no dashboard lights are on.
I will be more than glad to check the service history of the car if you provide me with the last seven digits of the VIN. Honestly, you are better off paying a little more and buying a car from somebody who babied it than getting "a great deal" on an average car and inheriting a bunch of headaches.
Best of luck!

[momentum]

[Ghetto2315]

Sorry to dig up an old thread, but this pertains to my situation. Trying to hunt down an E46 M3 Convertible 6-Speed (no SMG). With the price range that I am looking to spend, it seems like I am in the 01-03 range with less than 90K miles. My buddy told me that the 01's were prone to engine problems and to stay away and at least get an 02. Any truth to this? Thank you!

[THE TECH]

Might wanna check out a forum dedicated to this car for the best info on them. E46fanatics or m3forum.