M3 Evolution guidance

[danielm3007]

Hi

As you will see I am new to the site and require some of your assistance if possible. I am looking at buying a m3 evolution around a 98. Before I buy would you be able to inform me of possible problem areas to look out for before buying.

-Servicing: Inspection 1 and 2. I have found out that these cars need a valve rocker shim readjustment every 20k, how much would this cost. Would you advise maintaining the fbmw servicing. Inspections seem costly and majority of the areas are not necessary - brake adjustment (disk brakes-I thought these cannot be adjusted???) etc.
-Problem areas to look out for an a older machine
-Running costs, including services. Intervals-services
-mpg is around 25mpg, is this achievable at 90mph on the motorway?-last year I did 20k mileage.

Are these older cars likely in your experience to develop problems, even at 80k mileage.

Thanks for your help, I have to buy one but need to know what I am getting myself into cost wise

Also - Do all models come with cruise control as standard and with a lsd without traction control are these difficult or lethal to control? I currently drive a 140bhp mx5 with lsd, the m3 evo is 321bhp.

cheers

Dan

[danielm3007]

Thanks very much, you have been a great help.

As for the valve adjustment what is the normal price for this at a specialist bmw servicing garage? Just because I will likely service my car my local garage and get the valve adjustment done separately. Is this advisable?

Thanks

Dan

[danielm3007]

How do you know when the valve's need adjusting? Do you get excessive tappet noise?

If bmw advise every inspection, what would you recommend? every 20k or more frequent?

Thanks

dan