M3 Convertible ?

[lmw111]

I am considering buying an M3 convertible, prob around a year old (ideally new) and wanted to get some feedback from current owners, or enthusiasts.

I did post on the general gassing site that my partner is more for getting a Boxster (!!), but its definitely the M3 for me - especially after the test drive last weekend!

Are the servicing costs very high? Anyone know of, or had any major problems with them?

"Any" feedback would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Liza

[Podie]

IMHO the soft top suffered from scuttle shake to a high degree... and cornering suffered as a result... coupe was a far better bet.

If you're after the soft top, then go for the Z4...

[john_p]

Take one for a test drive, see what you think of the rattles. Some cars seem to suffer worse than others if you are buying 2nd hand. I drove two and found one was very bad, one not. Obviously with the roof down forget the rattles and enjoy the engine noise! The hard top is supposed to reduce rattles so that's also worth considering. I don't think the handling differences make too much of a difference unless you are a track day fanatic.

Servicing is not too unreasonable (mileage dependant, approx. every 10-12 months), tyres however are pretty pricey (£250 or so a corner) and rear tyres will probably only last you 10,000 miles..

If you buy one a year old make sure it has had the engine rebuild done - I think this was needed for all cars built before around Nov/Dec 2002 - ideally, try and get one built after week 10 2003 as it will have the new LED brakelights.

There is a very good site at www.bm3w.co.uk which is where all the M3 owners hang out plus cars for sale / dealer guides etc

>> Edited by john_p on Tuesday 23 September 13:03

[Geoff_33]

Completed 1300 miles in our new M3 convertible.
Can't say we've noticed any instability or excess noise from the hood (limitied to 5500rpm though).
Hopefully we still won't now we're opening it up properly.

We also thought about the Boxster. The main reasons for not going for it was:
Space
2 seats.
Toooooo many of them on the road.

We sold the elise and S-Type Jag, and got the best of both worlds.

More speed, luxury and can take a trip to France without leaving anything behind.
From memory, I don't think the Boxster takes a suit case of any size. I think it's all special bags/sports bags etc.
Of course, I'm sure someone will correct me...

[lmw111]

We did test drive one at the weekend and I am smitten - 200% smitten - luckily got to test drive it with the roof down! My other half unfortunately isn't as convinced as me - probably due to the fact his company car is a 325!

He prefers the Boxster - but Geoff I agree whole heartedly with you - in fact I saw 6 boxsters on the way into work this morning.

I think the M3 is definitely the way forward - now just have to convince the other half of this!

Thanks for your help.

Liza

[senator]

I currently drive a 2002 SL500 which I have had for 9 months. I have been looking for something more involving to drive and yet able to take 4 adults in relative comfort, but preferably convertible.

The choices at the moment are limited to the M3 cabrio and the Merc CLK either the 500 or the 55. In performance terms only the CLK55 gets close to the M3 but the price is at least £65k as opposed to £49k for the M3. The upside for the CLK is that it has a proper auto 'box as opposed to the SMG, my opinion on which is undecided.

Just wondering if anyone here had anything to add either in terms of alternative choices or thoughts for or against the M3?

[stuh]

I ran an E46 M3 Convertible for just over a year.

Fantastic engine, fantastic exhaust note and highly practical all round car. However I got rid in the end because it had rattling noises coming from EVERYWHERE. Back to the dealers many times to resolve this but to no avail. Also had complete clutch failure at 3K miles.

Mine could have been a lemon though, sounds like not everyone has had these problems.