Discussion
After a few months of looking it seems the stock of E30 and E34s is too limited in Australia to get anything decent soon. And the stock of E24s just isn't shifting, so its time to look broader. I'm not that keen on the look of E36 but there are lots around, and a 328 would be well within budget. There are also quite a few E46 in budget, and a 325Ci would be available. Can't quite reach a E36 M3, as the tidier ones are tantalisingly just out of Man Maths reach, though a 330Ci might be a possibility.
So, is an E46 really worth the extra over an E36? Bear in mind I was really after something a bit older, with character (what a w
ky word that is, I know) and an E46 seems just a bit new and smooth. Main use is as a second car, some urban work, bit of motorway, and then B-road fun.
To give it perspective, a 1996 328 coupe is about half the price of a 2001 325Ci.
I'm looking at manuals only, and have also read of the seemingly huge list of potential problems with E36.
So, is an E46 really worth the extra over an E36? Bear in mind I was really after something a bit older, with character (what a w
ky word that is, I know) and an E46 seems just a bit new and smooth. Main use is as a second car, some urban work, bit of motorway, and then B-road fun.To give it perspective, a 1996 328 coupe is about half the price of a 2001 325Ci.
I'm looking at manuals only, and have also read of the seemingly huge list of potential problems with E36.
rossi1 said:
g3org3y said:
sparks_E39 said:
Top notch E36 over a ropey E46 any day.
This.and this again
Thanks, and I have helped myself a little by taking a E46 325Ci for a drive yesterday. Nice, but a bit dull and had a few jobs to be done. E36 328 later this week.
As a contrast I followed the E46 with a go in an E28 M535i - f'in ace fun, and put things clearly in perspective.
I have owned four E36 6 cylinder Convertibles now and a couple of Coupes. I always buy the very best available with top spec and probably pay more than most people would be willing to. However I would much rather have the best of type rather than a slightly newer car that hasn't been as well looked after. The six E36s that I have owned have never once given me any issues between services. Mileage wise between 40k-145k. I always prefer to put the extra money in at purchase rather than a constant stream of issues that need addressing going forward.
St John Smythe said:
OptiManc said:
sparks_E39 said:
Top notch E36 over a ropey E46 any day.
agreed!1995 328
1996 328
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