Some advice please !!!

[lurkio]

Dear all, looking for a M3, E46, must be black or gunmetal grey, SMG or manual, I think the SMG is better (correct me if I'm wrong) with 19's around 40k miles, SatNav, got a budget of 22k, have you got any advice on where I can get a decent M3 that has not been trashed. Also, have you got any tips on what to look for, really appriciate it, thanks, Chris.

[baz1985]

lurkio said:

Dear all, looking for a M3, E46, must be black or gunmetal grey, SMG or manual, I think the SMG is better (correct me if I'm wrong) with 19's around 40k miles, SatNav, got a budget of 22k, have you got any advice on where I can get a decent M3 that has not been trashed. Also, have you got any tips on what to look for, really appriciate it, thanks, Chris.

Manual, 18s (it drives better on these), No Nav is the way forward (these are worth £3k less than one with Nav & 19s).

Spend the remaining £3k on a Alpine Nav/Diamond audio setup.

Don't buy one without a valid BMW Warranty.

[anorakuk]

When checking a motor out seriously, get its details and call BMW Warranty - to make sure all the necessary recalls have been done - a key one being the big end work if the car is in scope of that recall (earlier models). Also check the initial oil service was done to schedule and that the warranty is continuous. BMW are sticklers for breaks in the warranty (which is not cheap) so if someone tells you that you can just buy the BM warranty after it has expired, that's wrong - walk. Would recommend www.bm3w.co.uk for some great info on buying - and the site is now back up and running

Good luck

Dave

[deutscher]

baz1985 said:

Manual, 18s (it drives better on these), No Nav is the way forward (these are worth £3k less than one with Nav & 19s).

No. The difference is much less if you're looking at £22k cars. In fact, I'd say that 19s make no difference (many enthusiasts prefer the superior handling of 18s) and sat nav £1k tops. At this price point condition/mileage/colour are the critical factors.

Edited by deutscher on Monday 30th April 13:00

[lurkio]

Thanks lads, I'm searching high and low, can't wait to get one, cheers, Chris.

[vixpy1]

[Robatr0n]

Thinking of selling up already are we Charlie?

[paoloh]

Glass's guide state that M3's have to have met paint and satnav for it's valuation. 18's may handle better but do look very small in comparison to 19s.