e46 m3 or 650i

[ju6121]

After owning my e46 m3 convertible for 6 months now I am looking at moving on to something different and was looking at a 650i convertible. Has anyone gone from an m3 to a 650i? In particular what is practility and driveabilty like compared to an m3? Also does the engine sound as amazing as the m3 with roof down?

[belleair302]

The 650i is a much larger car, so it will not b as responsive. Build quiality is better as is the ride. However running costs are in a different league, as will be fuel and other consumables, plus insurance. More a serious cruiser than an out and ot GT / sportscar...but with the roof down and with the right exhaust an engine that just sings. Buy well and you will enjoy the ride, buy poorly and get ready to lose serious money.

[ju6121]

do you mean the 650 is much cheaper to run than the m3 or the other way round?

[paoloh]

Owned both of these cars.

The 6 feels a lot more grown up and more civilised.

M3 is a yoof in a hoodie.

Straight line, dead heat near enough, twisty stuff, M3 edges it.

[ju6121]

is it worth paying extra for the 650 or is the 645 better value in terms of pace and economy?

[Zod]

the 650 uses less fuel than the 645.

[belleair302]

On the six series get a decent exhaust....better for long distance dashes than whizzing around the lanes. A better looking car too, more stylish and sophisticated. Not so great on track but beautifully built. A CSL would be my choice of cars but is not one to enjoy everyday if only owning one car.

[tobybmw535i]

the 650i is really nice and does sound good but it just doesnt have that M badge on it and it wont handle as well. But my mum steped out of an M3 into a 645i convertible and she is into driving and said it is the best car she's had.
with the sound the its up to you!!! V8 rumble or straight six scream.

[taffyracer]

i had a 650 for a while, really nice easy everyday car but it was not exciting in any area, the M3 I had was more alive but less refines, depends on what you want, the 650 is certainly not a drivers car IMO

[ju6121]

what are running costs like when compared to the m3?

[For 5e]

I've just swapped my E46 cab for a 645, overall the 6 is cheeper to keep IMO. Fuel is pretty much the same but most parts, sevice and tyres are all far cheeper.
I'd say theres not much in it, i love the 6 but if you love lots of fun then theres no doubt it can't match an M3