BMW M3 E36 saloon/coupe
Discussion
Hi all,
Just out of curiosity at this stage more than anything else, I was wondering what to look for when buying one of the above, pitfalls, problems, current values (are saloons still worth less than coupes?) etc.
I'm currently dreamily browsing the Pistonheads classifieds and AutoTrader, although no way can I afford one yet!
To be honest I'm bored of Front Wheel Drive, I'm bored of a diesel engine with too few cylinders, I'm bored with looking like a rep. I need something fun, and I want an M3. Ideally an unmolested original car (i.e. stupid headlights, stupid body kit, you get the idea) I don't want to be a beacon of chavness!
Aha you might say, you've got the Triumph, that has both 6 cylinders and RWD. Yes, but that's currently undergoing work, and with all 84 bhp, it doesn't really satisfy my need for something a bit quicker!
Of course, without wanting to turn this into a what car, any other suggestions are welcome. Preferably RWD (4WD ok though), 5 or more cylinders, must have a reasonable turn of speed, preferably saloon or coupe. My dad, after wondering where he had gone wrong with raising me, suggested a Jaguar XJR, which is certainly an interesting choice. As buying a new car will not happen for a while yet, budget really isn't important as values can change, just wondered what other options I have.
Thanks guys.
Just out of curiosity at this stage more than anything else, I was wondering what to look for when buying one of the above, pitfalls, problems, current values (are saloons still worth less than coupes?) etc.
I'm currently dreamily browsing the Pistonheads classifieds and AutoTrader, although no way can I afford one yet!
To be honest I'm bored of Front Wheel Drive, I'm bored of a diesel engine with too few cylinders, I'm bored with looking like a rep. I need something fun, and I want an M3. Ideally an unmolested original car (i.e. stupid headlights, stupid body kit, you get the idea) I don't want to be a beacon of chavness!
Aha you might say, you've got the Triumph, that has both 6 cylinders and RWD. Yes, but that's currently undergoing work, and with all 84 bhp, it doesn't really satisfy my need for something a bit quicker!
Of course, without wanting to turn this into a what car, any other suggestions are welcome. Preferably RWD (4WD ok though), 5 or more cylinders, must have a reasonable turn of speed, preferably saloon or coupe. My dad, after wondering where he had gone wrong with raising me, suggested a Jaguar XJR, which is certainly an interesting choice. As buying a new car will not happen for a while yet, budget really isn't important as values can change, just wondered what other options I have.
Thanks guys.
You might get a better response posting in the M section.
In the meantime the ad below might give you an idea of the costs which can be incurred in refreshing an e36:
http://e36coupe.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=61&t...
In the meantime the ad below might give you an idea of the costs which can be incurred in refreshing an e36:
http://e36coupe.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=61&t...
You need to work out if you want the Evo (3.2) or the Non-Evo (3.0). The Evo had issues with the Vanos at the front of the engine so make sure you check closely for any noise coming from the unit if this is the engine you plump for.
Not sure if the M3 suffered from the Nikasil issue but check carefully onthis subject. Chances are if an engine hasn't gone pop now, then it should be out of the danger zone.
Usual places for tin worm on the E36 are around the rear arches and the bootlid.
There's also the SMG gearbox issue - some people like, some don't.
If you get an unmolested example it will set you back more than some of the cheaper ones but as there's so few about that haven't had the Ripspeed treatmnet at some point, I'd wager they're going to become a bit of classic in the not too distant future.
Awesome car too - you won't regret it if you get a nice example.
Not sure if the M3 suffered from the Nikasil issue but check carefully onthis subject. Chances are if an engine hasn't gone pop now, then it should be out of the danger zone.
Usual places for tin worm on the E36 are around the rear arches and the bootlid.
There's also the SMG gearbox issue - some people like, some don't.
If you get an unmolested example it will set you back more than some of the cheaper ones but as there's so few about that haven't had the Ripspeed treatmnet at some point, I'd wager they're going to become a bit of classic in the not too distant future.
Awesome car too - you won't regret it if you get a nice example.
Notshortnottall said:
You need to work out if you want the Evo (3.2) or the Non-Evo (3.0). The Evo had issues with the Vanos at the front of the engine so make sure you check closely for any noise coming from the unit if this is the engine you plump for.
Not sure if the M3 suffered from the Nikasil issue but check carefully onthis subject. Chances are if an engine hasn't gone pop now, then it should be out of the danger zone.
Usual places for tin worm on the E36 are around the rear arches and the bootlid.
There's also the SMG gearbox issue - some people like, some don't.
If you get an unmolested example it will set you back more than some of the cheaper ones but as there's so few about that haven't had the Ripspeed treatmnet at some point, I'd wager they're going to become a bit of classic in the not too distant future.
Awesome car too - you won't regret it if you get a nice example.
Thanks chaps. Mods, can this be moved to the M section? I don't want to duplicate the thread. Thank you.Not sure if the M3 suffered from the Nikasil issue but check carefully onthis subject. Chances are if an engine hasn't gone pop now, then it should be out of the danger zone.
Usual places for tin worm on the E36 are around the rear arches and the bootlid.
There's also the SMG gearbox issue - some people like, some don't.
If you get an unmolested example it will set you back more than some of the cheaper ones but as there's so few about that haven't had the Ripspeed treatmnet at some point, I'd wager they're going to become a bit of classic in the not too distant future.
Awesome car too - you won't regret it if you get a nice example.
Yeah I don't think an SMG gearbox would be for me, I don't know why but I feel it would be clunky? Plus I like to change my own gears! I don't mind a few modifications, I suppose what I really meant was one that hasn't been completely 'barried up'
avoid smg, id go evo cos its newer but has higher servicing costs brakes etc also budget for arp con rod bolt cos they can spin their shells, replace waterpump make sure your cooling system is spot on other than that rusty arches accident damage, take your time there are loads about, the 3.0 is also not to be sniffed at if you find a good en but production stopped in 95 so bear that in mind
mikial said:
ooo I like. Is there a 4 door version out of interest? Afraid I'm not too clued up on BMW/Alpina, but always willing to learn!Edit: Just looked on ebay, yes there is a 4 door. Doh!
Edited by Triumph Man on Saturday 19th November 14:10
Check for corrosion of the rear brake lines, the fuel tank has to come out to change them so it's a pain of a job (unless you have a 4 post lift). They also seem to eat suspension bushes, and the brakes are not up to the performance of the rest of the car (fine for road use, but certainly not track). No nikasil issues for M3's, those engines are based on the M50 lump not the M52.
XJR is a completely different car. There is a thread on these (XJR buying advice) on the Jaguar forum, but they aren't a focussed drivers car like an M3 is. You might be able to save yourself a lot of money (to buy and run) and get a 328i instead, it depends what kind of performance you are after.
There is another car I can think of that ticks all the boxes and seems to solve all your problems...decent performance, V8, RWD and still a Triumph...a Stag. Of course you'll be into a whole new world of problems if you go down that route...
Porsche 944?
XJR is a completely different car. There is a thread on these (XJR buying advice) on the Jaguar forum, but they aren't a focussed drivers car like an M3 is. You might be able to save yourself a lot of money (to buy and run) and get a 328i instead, it depends what kind of performance you are after.
There is another car I can think of that ticks all the boxes and seems to solve all your problems...decent performance, V8, RWD and still a Triumph...a Stag. Of course you'll be into a whole new world of problems if you go down that route...
Porsche 944?
Edited by varsas on Saturday 19th November 13:59
Babu 01 said:
You might get a better response posting in the M section.
In the meantime the ad below might give you an idea of the costs which can be incurred in refreshing an e36:
http://e36coupe.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=61&t...
Nice car but that price is about a grand optimistic going from my experience selling mine earlier this year.In the meantime the ad below might give you an idea of the costs which can be incurred in refreshing an e36:
http://e36coupe.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=61&t...
I'd say never forget that the car you buy might be cheap(ish) but the on-going service costs are not, if you want it to remain in mint condition.
if you can only just about afford one then don't, repeat don't get one. These cars need a conservative maintenance/servicing/tyre budget of around £2000 per year. It would be sensible on a budget to go for a 328 instead which is still a very enjoyable car, but with slightly lower running costs. For example £3k buys you a useable E36 M3 now, but don't dream of going into it with just that budget. I would advise a good car around £5k with a £2k per year maintenance budget and a good breakdown/repair warranty..whereas a good 328 Sport can be had for £2-£3k, with a maintenance budget if around £750-£1000 a year..
mikial said:
Much better proposition economically speaking, you can find the 3.0 versions in manual easily enough
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2521644.htm
varsas said:
Check for corrosion of the rear brake lines, the fuel tank has to come out to change them so it's a pain of a job (unless you have a 4 post lift). They also seem to eat suspension bushes, and the brakes are not up to the performance of the rest of the car (fine for road use, but certainly not track). No nikasil issues for M3's, those engines are based on the M50 lump not the M52.
XJR is a completely different car. There is a thread on these (XJR buying advice) on the Jaguar forum, but they aren't a focussed drivers car like an M3 is. You might be able to save yourself a lot of money (to buy and run) and get a 328i instead, it depends what kind of performance you are after.
There is another car I can think of that ticks all the boxes and seems to solve all your problems...decent performance, V8, RWD and still a Triumph...a Stag. Of course you'll be into a whole new world of problems if you go down that route...
Porsche 944?
Ah right that's good to know, re: the nikasil. Yeah I would have assumed the Jag would not be a driver's car, still I do like a barge. Haha yeah one Triumph is enough for me! At least the one I've got will run and run, I know V8 Stags have mostly had their problems sorted, but I would still be slightly worried every time I drove it!XJR is a completely different car. There is a thread on these (XJR buying advice) on the Jaguar forum, but they aren't a focussed drivers car like an M3 is. You might be able to save yourself a lot of money (to buy and run) and get a 328i instead, it depends what kind of performance you are after.
There is another car I can think of that ticks all the boxes and seems to solve all your problems...decent performance, V8, RWD and still a Triumph...a Stag. Of course you'll be into a whole new world of problems if you go down that route...
Porsche 944?
Edited by varsas on Saturday 19th November 13:59
Porsche 944 is a good idea, but I would rather have at least 5 cylinders, preferably 6. For me the engine note of a car is a big part of it. Which is why I disagree with BMWs current thinking of high output 2.0 4 pots replacing the big sixes, but that's another thread
Apache said:
Much better proposition economically speaking, you can find the 3.0 versions in manual easily enough
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2521644.htm
Triumph Man said:
Apache said:
Much better proposition economically speaking, you can find the 3.0 versions in manual easily enough
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2521644.htm
Triumph Man said:
mikial said:
If you`re referring to the advertised car it`s a coupe, hatchback not included in Alpina model line up. Also the block is cast iron so no Nikasil issues.
I know it's a coupe, it was tongue in cheek because the advert said "hatchback". Good god, I'd never buy a compact!!
Perhaps I can add my experiences with this
Have had a mint 328i Sport for the last 18 months - its a keeper and in daily use, lots of good quality mechanical upgrades
Currently looking for either an E36 M3 Evo or Mercedes C43 and looking at and test driving a lot to find the right car for me
Have ruled out a convertible, nowhere near as taut as the coupe but the saloon is torsionally stiffer than even the coupe.
The M3 Evo saloons were set up a little softer than the coupe but you have to be on the limit to detect any real difference.
I haven't ruled out an SMG, take some getting used to but offer a different as opposed to better / worse experience
Have had a mint 328i Sport for the last 18 months - its a keeper and in daily use, lots of good quality mechanical upgrades
Currently looking for either an E36 M3 Evo or Mercedes C43 and looking at and test driving a lot to find the right car for me
Have ruled out a convertible, nowhere near as taut as the coupe but the saloon is torsionally stiffer than even the coupe.
The M3 Evo saloons were set up a little softer than the coupe but you have to be on the limit to detect any real difference.
I haven't ruled out an SMG, take some getting used to but offer a different as opposed to better / worse experience
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