e36 M3 Evo convertible
Discussion
Hi folks,
I've just been offered one of these at a good price. Low miles, 2 owner, FSH, etc.
What do I need to look for?
Initial thoughts other than usual stuff including HPI:
Nikasil
VANOS (is there any way of telling if there are problems in store?)
Roof operation
Rust on bootlid and rear arches
bushes/suspension (although low miles will mean it's hopefully OK).
How unpleasant is insurance likely to be? It's a personal import but full UK spec.
Thanks in advance.
I've just been offered one of these at a good price. Low miles, 2 owner, FSH, etc.
What do I need to look for?
Initial thoughts other than usual stuff including HPI:
Nikasil
VANOS (is there any way of telling if there are problems in store?)
Roof operation
Rust on bootlid and rear arches
bushes/suspension (although low miles will mean it's hopefully OK).
How unpleasant is insurance likely to be? It's a personal import but full UK spec.
Thanks in advance.
Any more thoughts guys?
Was giving a 328 sport serious consideration before this came up.
Not so sure about running costs of the M3, nor whether the convertible might be a bit disappointing (as in, not as good as the coupe!). Wonder whether it might attract a bit too much of the wrong attention if you know what I mean. I like the subtlety of the 328.
Was giving a 328 sport serious consideration before this came up.
Not so sure about running costs of the M3, nor whether the convertible might be a bit disappointing (as in, not as good as the coupe!). Wonder whether it might attract a bit too much of the wrong attention if you know what I mean. I like the subtlety of the 328.
It won't drive as well as a coupe, but you can't take the roof off a coupe, so that's up to you.
In terms of running costs, it WILL cost more than a 328i. Things like brake discs are £100 each, and all the //M specific parts carry a price premium.
But, for the engine alone, it's worth it.
Because of the cost, check the wear levels of brake discs and if they need changing build it into the price. Also, if it doesn't have one, it'll need a braided clutch hose. Also check to see when the fluids where last replaced (brake, gearbox, diff) as that's a sign of how extensively it has been cared for.
In terms of running costs, it WILL cost more than a 328i. Things like brake discs are £100 each, and all the //M specific parts carry a price premium.
But, for the engine alone, it's worth it.
Because of the cost, check the wear levels of brake discs and if they need changing build it into the price. Also, if it doesn't have one, it'll need a braided clutch hose. Also check to see when the fluids where last replaced (brake, gearbox, diff) as that's a sign of how extensively it has been cared for.
dan101smith said:
In terms of running costs, it WILL cost more than a 328i. Things like brake discs are £100 each, and all the //M specific parts carry a price premium.
But, for the engine alone, it's worth it.
Engine - agreed. Wonderful.But, for the engine alone, it's worth it.
Running costs, not necessarily! My 328 sport cost me more in 12 months than my Evo cost in three years!
E36GUY said:
Engine - agreed. Wonderful.
Running costs, not necessarily! My 328 sport cost me more in 12 months than my Evo cost in three years!
You're right, of course.Running costs, not necessarily! My 328 sport cost me more in 12 months than my Evo cost in three years!
What I meant to say is that assuming just routine maintenance and servicing, the M3 will cost more.
Obviously either could cost more if something goes pop.
So realistically, what are service costs?
Basic research suggests
Oil service £200
Inspection 1 £500
Inspection 2 £800
going: Oil - Insp1 - Oil - Insp2 (repeat) with one roughly every year.
Does this sound about right? The car has about 50k miles on it so I am wondering if it's just done or just needs it's Inspection 2...
It would be to replace my MX-5 but for all the bells and whistles and the engine I have a feeling it won't be nearly as "flingable" as my '5 as it's a saloon with no roof rather than a sports car.
Decisions...
Basic research suggests
Oil service £200
Inspection 1 £500
Inspection 2 £800
going: Oil - Insp1 - Oil - Insp2 (repeat) with one roughly every year.
Does this sound about right? The car has about 50k miles on it so I am wondering if it's just done or just needs it's Inspection 2...
It would be to replace my MX-5 but for all the bells and whistles and the engine I have a feeling it won't be nearly as "flingable" as my '5 as it's a saloon with no roof rather than a sports car.
Decisions...
That's the top end of what the servicing should cost, assuming nothing else done at the same time.
At 50k it will be coming up to the point where it will need the suspension refreshed, too. Also, the brake fluid and coolant should be changed every other year. Valve clearances should be done at each Insp2, but often aren't.
It won't be as chuckable as an MX5 - it's too big and wobbly for that. Best bet is for you to drive it and see if you like it.
At 50k it will be coming up to the point where it will need the suspension refreshed, too. Also, the brake fluid and coolant should be changed every other year. Valve clearances should be done at each Insp2, but often aren't.
It won't be as chuckable as an MX5 - it's too big and wobbly for that. Best bet is for you to drive it and see if you like it.
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