ST200 or E46 m3??

[mr2turbogts]

I have a bit of a dilemma, and wondered if anyone could shed some light/advise?

I currently drive a Mondeo ST200 in pretty good nick, however I have been toying with the idea of getting a E46 m3.

I have always looked at getting a M3 but could never afford, now I am in a position to afford to own/run a m3.

This wouldn't usual be a problem as I see things if you want it get it.

However speaking with a guy in the garage and he dropped the line I'd keep hold of the Mondeo ST200 as it will be worth some ££ in a few year?

Now do you PH's agree with this statement, should I get an M3 and possibly regret selling the st200, or keep the st200 and possibly regret not buying a m3?

[Matt UK]

If you want an M3 now, get one.

I can't really see the ST200 going up in value any time soon. I'm sure in the long term the whole 'Fast Ford' thing will mean there is a market, but I think you're in for a long weight.

[s p a c e m a n]

I think that the M3 will gain money long before the ST200, if they ever really do.

[DubZeus]

The M3 is something special, the Mondeo is very good & are getting rare now(assuming you mean mk2 not mk3) but it will still be a while until values increase.

[mr2turbogts]

Valid response, I don't know why I have this need to keep changing my car.

I think its an addiction lol

[E65Ross]

M3 if you can.

One huge bonus is that it sounds like this (skip 1st 10 secs)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o42aC4rTnLo

[Podie]

I'm a Ford man, but I don't see the ST200 values rising much - try an M3.

[Zad]

The ST200 was nice but it is no RS, and as such is unlikely to do much. It may hold a slightly higher than normal residual value like an XR3i or whatever, but it will never be a Cosworth, not least due to the lack of race pedigree.

[RedBull]

I agree with other posters, if the ST is going to rise in value it will take a long time to do it. Certainly not worth holding on to now as an investment, especially if you like to change your car regularly. I've no experience of the E46 but my E36 is a great car, so on that basis I would say try an E46 and see what you think. My bet is that you'll want one

[cerb4.5lee]

Podie said:

I'm a Ford man, but I don't see the ST200 values rising much - try an M3.

Same here I love fords but if it was me I would try the E46 M3.

[TheAngryDog]

E46 M3 all day.

[StuntmanMike]

I love Fords but agree with every post on here, get the M3.

[Leins]

Sounds like you even have a potential buyer lined up for the Ford already in the garage! Don't bother even thinking anymore about this and get yourself into a good M3 now

[Debaser]

Get the M3

[rb5er]

Surely the ST200 can`t currently be worth much so might be worth storing.

Or use it as a daily driver and use the M3 as a weekend car? It makes the weekend car feel much more special if you don`t drive it every day.

[thebigmacmoomin]

I took the plunge of an E46 M3 (2004 SMG Coupe in Silver Grey) back in December replacing my Focus ST. My plan is to keep it 6 months or so then back to a cheaper car. It was never a long term car for me anyway, just to experience one whilst I can. Hopefully I dont loose too much cash in a few months time.

So far, my only expense has been 6 months tax.

Anyway, as above, I dont see an ST200 ever being worth a big amount of money. A low milage mint orignal car maybe worth a bit to a collector.

Go for it. Dont want to regret it in a few years time. Take your time in looking for one & make sure its less than 10 year old or has documented evidence that its had its rear boot floor done as its a common issue that BMW will fix under warrenty (must be under 10 y.o & a few other criteria).

Edited by thebigmacmoomin on Monday 24th March 14:12

[nottyash]

I don't think the ST200 will go up in value. They are not and have never been a desirable car.
The M3 prices have fluctuated in the last 6 years. I've had 2 in this time.
If you buy the right one at the right price you might lot loose much in value on it.
They are pricey for servicing, brake discs, and suspension parts. Also the possibility of a boot floor failing. Coil springs snap quite often too