E46 Cabrio Buying Guide?
Discussion
Hi all,
I am looking to pick up a BMW E46 cabrio. I loved the shape when it was first released and I still do now. I really don't think it's aged badly at all so I figured as I am in a position to pick one up to slot somewhere in between my van, C63 and Micra (yes, Micra), I would do so. I am looking at the facelifted E46 specifically, 2003 (53 plate) onward.
Power isn't really high on priorities, I just want a cruiser with a nice 6-pot burble, so I guess that puts me in the market for the 320Ci, 325Ci & 330Ci; I understand they were all 6-pots, 2.2, 2.5 and 3.0, am I right?
I am assuming most are automatic, but if I come across a manual, is that a bad thing?
What is the engine to go for and what should I be looking for when viewing one?
Mileage wise, I am hoping to find something 70k or under. I am not sure if that puts one near a major service or anything.
I am looking to pick up a BMW E46 cabrio. I loved the shape when it was first released and I still do now. I really don't think it's aged badly at all so I figured as I am in a position to pick one up to slot somewhere in between my van, C63 and Micra (yes, Micra), I would do so. I am looking at the facelifted E46 specifically, 2003 (53 plate) onward.
Power isn't really high on priorities, I just want a cruiser with a nice 6-pot burble, so I guess that puts me in the market for the 320Ci, 325Ci & 330Ci; I understand they were all 6-pots, 2.2, 2.5 and 3.0, am I right?
I am assuming most are automatic, but if I come across a manual, is that a bad thing?
What is the engine to go for and what should I be looking for when viewing one?
Mileage wise, I am hoping to find something 70k or under. I am not sure if that puts one near a major service or anything.
Engine-wise, all the 6-pots are similar enough in terms of economy that you might as well get the performance of the 330, any ‘saving’ will be marginal, and the 330’s greater torque makes wafting about much nicer.
The e46 coolant system issues are well known, look for a refreshed system by now, bearing in mind it could be upto 15years old, irrespective of mileage. If there’s no evidence of one, be wary/budget & negotiate for it - look for banana radiators as an obvious giveaway. Also think about suspension & bushes - even the last of the e46 cabrio’s (55 plate?) will be 13 years old. That’s plenty of time to become loose, irrespective of mileage.
Rust - e46’s like to rust. Not sure on cabrio’s specific spots, but front wings, sills, etc.
I’ve no real preference gearbox-wise, the auto’s better at wafting, the manual will encourage you to drive it a bit harder (if only to hear the noise), it’s the bit that I’d be most willing to compromise on for the right car.
Finally, it’s a pretty solid car, once the rust & the cooling is covered - I wouldn’t be afraid of buying one at 150k miles, if the work’s been done. The engine is likely to outlast the rest of the car, so limiting yourself to ~70k seems a little harsh IMO.
The e46 coolant system issues are well known, look for a refreshed system by now, bearing in mind it could be upto 15years old, irrespective of mileage. If there’s no evidence of one, be wary/budget & negotiate for it - look for banana radiators as an obvious giveaway. Also think about suspension & bushes - even the last of the e46 cabrio’s (55 plate?) will be 13 years old. That’s plenty of time to become loose, irrespective of mileage.
Rust - e46’s like to rust. Not sure on cabrio’s specific spots, but front wings, sills, etc.
I’ve no real preference gearbox-wise, the auto’s better at wafting, the manual will encourage you to drive it a bit harder (if only to hear the noise), it’s the bit that I’d be most willing to compromise on for the right car.
Finally, it’s a pretty solid car, once the rust & the cooling is covered - I wouldn’t be afraid of buying one at 150k miles, if the work’s been done. The engine is likely to outlast the rest of the car, so limiting yourself to ~70k seems a little harsh IMO.
Had a 330ci for a few years now. Still loving it. Fast enough to get into a lot of trouble, but probably 1/3 running costs of a M3. Don't be afraid of the auto, it actually suits the car very well.
Parts & servicing can be a bit serious, but use a good independant and GSF for parts where you can and it's a decent proposition, overall mine has been pretty reliable. Also they're well kitted up and comfortable over long distances. Try and get one with the Harmann Kardon upgrade (with the nav) if you can.
Parts & servicing can be a bit serious, but use a good independant and GSF for parts where you can and it's a decent proposition, overall mine has been pretty reliable. Also they're well kitted up and comfortable over long distances. Try and get one with the Harmann Kardon upgrade (with the nav) if you can.
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