Looking at dipping into E46 M3 - Not easy

[maz8062]

Right, so I'm over Porsches and fancy buying an E46 M3.

I've seen a couple in the flesh, so to speak, including this one:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/406818163299

It looked OK, but the passenger side door had obviously been painted and was a poor match, dull.

The service book was fully stamped and included a £2500 service last year. But in that latter service, the technician had noted that the SMG pump "could fail at any time". Given how much had just been spent, it was spiteful in my view, but spooked me.

Another oversight by the seller was that he had failed to notice an obvious fluid leak running from the engine to the kerb. It wasn't present when I viewed it, and there was no evidence of a leak.

My question to the gathered experts - is it worth the risk?

My thinking when it comes to E46 M3's is that there's a hierarchy that goes something like:
1. Manual Coupe
2. SMG Coupe
3. Manual Convertible
4. SMG Convertible

So the SMG Cab is right at the bottom and deemed to be less desirable.

Thoughts?

[darreni]

That price is bottom of the market. Up your budget.
There is no hierarchy, buy what you like.

[sam.rog]

Bottom of the barrel, least desirable model.
Looks like a possible money pit.

You need to up your budget considerably to get a decent one now.

[JJ77]

Manuals in either form are the most desirable, prices have been picking up last 9 months, subject to condition and history. The Autostore Cab Manual was a belter, knew the car and owner, a Classic Heroes Maintained car, You will need 30’s for the best at fhe moment. Old Colonel Cars is worth a chat with if your budget is less.