Sell it or fix It, M3 Evo Saloon E36

[majesticproperti]

I have owned my 96 Evo saloon for about five years, Car has to be said was mint one previous owner and full BMW service when I bought it and it has not given me any real issues during the time I have owned it.

This year I had a bit of a knock to the front end nothing to major, Needs a new spoiler and grill surround, bit of painting, front wheels are damaged and a few other bits and pieces to make perfect again. Only third party insurance here in Spain on cars over ten years old so not covered on this.

The question is, is it worth repairing I have been quoted 2000 euros to fix. As I am in Spain its all main dealer supplied parts from BMW, so I know I can get the parts from the Uk for a lot less. Most of this quote is parts (excluding the wheels).

I would like to keep the car but I see them falling in value fast, I have seen them in auto trader for around 2.5 - 3 k and even less and higher priced cars being advertised for months with the same spec and miles as mine.

If I thought the values are holding or even going up as they start to become classics I might justify spending the value of the car so to speak.

I have seen some that have been sold for parts is it worth going down that road?

The car has been great and I would have liked to keep it for many more years but I have to think now (As things are a bit tighter than before) is it worth spending on it if in the end they are not worth the money any more.

So guys any thoughts, scrap it or keep it or sell it.

Thanks
Anthony (Spain)

[Welshbeef]

One idea here you have been quoted Exk Euros for the repair in Spain. Why not contact a UK indy for a quote on the job then add in fuel & ferry costs for the trip to the UK.

It is hard to justify keeping them going when they get to their current age and a difficult choice especially as the E46 M3 is getting really close in price now to the E36 M/yes possibly a 13 to a 1/2 more but its really not that much in £k.

The thing is these cars no will certainly fall no lower really £4-5k for a very good condition E36 M3 Evo/non Evo model is essentially the min I'd spend buying one.

Hard choice but think hard what else is wrong with the car what other costs might you have in the next year or 2 then make a financial decision - following that make the heart decision too.
They are old (ish) cars now but good ones still really do look good (keep it std please).