E9x M3 coupe/Saloon - living with the practicalities

[gixermark]

Hi Guys,

been mulling on the next motor for a bit.. looked at 335is (but now think i need to tick the M box if i go BMW)

I've drove an RS4 avant - and liked it.. does 95% of what i want (just cant tow) and seem to hold their $$ well (I'm aware of the DRC/coking issues etc etc)

the M3 would also do 95% of what i want (still cant tow) but probably more compromised, but could maybe be made better by a 4 door (have 2 young kids) and i'd read you can get proper bolt on roof system (I'm into biking) ?

question on boot for those that have coupe and 4 door - is the access between boot and rear seat the same ? i gather there is a hatch between ? is it totally open ? specifically my question is whether you coudl carry a dog in the boot (occasionally) in either - i.e. if they have an access/flap into the rear seat - at least it would have fresh air :-)

[gixermark]

Thanks guys.

Yes major beef - that's exactly what I was thinking..

The one 4 door car in particular that is local I just found out does not have a hatch (was an option apparently)

In truth the RS4 is probably a 'better' package, although the M3 probably dynamically better... And more feel.

We have another estate car.. I'd just rather have one nice car to do it all.. Although - maybe it's a plus not having a dog in an M car !! :-)

E61 is out... I drove an M5 last year and just didn't like the box at all

[gixermark]

Yea - it's a shame the hatch between boot and rear seat in the e90 isn't there (unless spec'd when new)

If the m5 touring was available in manual! I'd buy one in a heartbeat! I test drove an m5 (e60) last year.. And hated the box

[gixermark]

Yep... With all the issues on that box, you'd think someone would have come up with bypassing the SMG system... Given its a normal box under the skin... You'd think you could get a stick rigged up!

M5 tourings are reasonable value when you look what you are getting... I just couldn't live with the box

[gixermark]

Split fold would be no use for me.. I just wanted a hatch in the middle (like coupe) so the dog could get fresh air! On the odd trip she might make in the car.

Hopefully going to see the 4dr car this Sunday.. See how I go

[gixermark]

Thanks guys... Going tomorrow hopefully.

Gangzoom - yes, would be getting roof bars for sure.. I already have thule 591 cycle carriers on the octavia.. Might get a fresh pair on the BM (if I buy it) tho... Have options then :-)

Let's hope it's dry in the morning to get a good look at this machine

[gixermark]

That's the one I am viewing!

I gather it's a fairly well known car, been to a lot of shows etc.

[gixermark]

Small world!

Yes, that's what I gather about the car.. Original owner sold it to them, and bought it back off them... Then traded it in again.

Current owner did indeed buy off holybrook, and has spent quite a wedge on it.

I live in NI so only a 35 min trip to view :-)

[gixermark]

Yep.. Search and torture is over :-)

The car is a credit to Trevor... I have big shoes to fill!