3.6KVIEWS
1REPLIES
0APPRECIATES
08-29-2025LAST POST
Let me know if this is not the place for this. I didn’t see any other area where I can post this.

Im in the market for a used reliable car that is fun and can be a daily driver that is around $20-30k. 
Initially, i thought of an older porsche 987, 996, or possibly a 997 but i feel like maintenance would be hell and not practical enough for an every day car. 
I just cant make up my mind.

I found one e93 that has around 30k miles for $40k but has the color scheme I like silver ext with red interior. I would have to ship it as its on the west coast

Another one that has 70k miles for $32k but not the color scheme i want but can live with (black ext, ta n interior). With proof that rod bearings were replaced. Location is driving distance.

The 440i gc i found has the msport package, 50k miles for $31k with color scheme I like. Silver ext, red interior.

I wrote out a few of my pros, cons, wants

Wants: practicality, reliability, fun to drive

M3 e93 pros: manual transmission, convertible, it’s an M!, v8, more engaging driving experience. 
Cons: older car, more expensive maintenance(?), gas guzzler, not as practical (i golf so trunk space would be nice, but i guess i can toss it in the back seat)

440i gc: lower maintenance cost (?), practical, better gas mileage, newer car, still fun to drive?
Cons: automatic, overpriced for this specific one IMO, doesn’t sound like an e9x (after searching hours on youtube)

I’ve owned an e46 manual (2001 325i), 2007 328i, and leased a 2017 3 series (i forgot the specific model)

Out of the 3 i’ve had, e46 was fun bc it was manual, but overall liked the rideability of the 2017 3 series. 

Any input is appreciated!
I've owned both an E93 M3 (still have it) and a 440i GC (sold it) at the same time, M3 is way more fun to drive.

The maintenance cost of the M3 isn't bad, especially if you're DIY-capable.

Yes the tech was newer in the 440i (ours had built-in carplay), but if you put a carplay unit like mr12volt in the E93, it really updates the whole tech aspect.