Is the M3 E36 conv more fun to drive than an Elise S1?

[Leggy]

Thinking of getting a 4 seater so the whole family can come out with me?

[RobbieM-Evo]

I have a E36 M3 Cab - see profile.

However i've never driven a S1 Elise.

If you want four seats, roof down, plenty of grunt for around 10K you will not find any other comparions. IMHO.

///M power all the way!

Were are you based???

[shortshiftin]

erm... 2 different cars designed to be and do 2 different things...


I suppose it depends on what your definition of "fun" is. If its crossing country on A and B roads at a considerable rate of knots then no the M3 isnt as much fun. If its doing big numbers on flat straightish roads then yes its more fun.

[Leggy]

I'm in Hampshire.
I do enjoy the twisty lanes though, how does the vert handle?
Also do the roofs leak?

[Zod]

seems highly unlikely to me

[griff2be]

Leggy said:

Thinking of getting a 4 seater so the whole family can come out with me?

Doesn't this make the question in the thread title somewhat irrelevant?

[pattyg]

Unless you need the seats its the Lotus every time.

[northernboy]

pattyg said:

Unless you need the seats its the Lotus every time.

I'd agree. In terms of pure driving fun, the Elise is hard to beat. The BMW has had to lose some driving fun in exchange for the practical considerations.

I've had a couple of Elises, am about to get an M3, but know the Lotus is by far the more fun car in terms of handling and feel.

[JRSE]

No it's not more fun but more practical whilst retaining decent performance. Handling could be better due to being a 'vert - strut brace recommended.

[JRSE]

Oh and forgot to add... Yes check hood for leaks! After spending a LOT of money on hood repairs (replacement seal kit and motors) I wouldn't buy a 'vert without a main dealer warranty, etc again...

[swilding]

I've gone from an S2 Elise to an E46 M3 Coupe. The straight line performance of the M3 is much better than the Elise, but to be honest I miss the Elise.

The M3 is just too refined and good at what it does. And that makes it lack character and feel a bit boring. She may have to go.

[jimbo22]

I'm exactly the same as swilding, had a couple of Elise's prior to my E46 M3. Great car but just no where near as involving as an Elise.

Mine's going also to be replaced hopefully with a grown up Elise (aka Noble!)