E36 M3 3.0/3.2 owners feedback sought
Discussion
im currently doing some research with the intention of buying an E36 M3 in the spring 
a few of my friends own/have owned M cars,inc E36 M3 EVO/E36 M3 EVO convertible/E46 M3 convertible/Z4 M coupe
i know all cars have faults but is there any specific things to look out for?
all owners feedback greatfully recieved,thanks in advance
a few of my friends own/have owned M cars,inc E36 M3 EVO/E36 M3 EVO convertible/E46 M3 convertible/Z4 M coupe
i know all cars have faults but is there any specific things to look out for?
all owners feedback greatfully recieved,thanks in advance
Edited by y2blade on Tuesday 23 October 13:06
ok thanks
im not interested in the whole VANOS debate, i just want to know how to avoid buying a "pup"..and if theres any specific faults related to this model
this looks nice
i didnt know they made them in white
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/267263.htm
im not interested in the whole VANOS debate, i just want to know how to avoid buying a "pup"..and if theres any specific faults related to this model
this looks nice
i didnt know they made them in whitehttp://www.pistonheads.com/sales/267263.htm
Edited by y2blade on Tuesday 23 October 16:35
Hi I own a M3 EVO and i have got to say its the best car i have owned Has for problems cant think of any VANOS no not going there!If the oils are change regular and seviced in the right way! thats half the battle
I agree with mo4.5 take time on your M3 buying I payed top money for mine and i think its worth every penny
Selling mine for a classic car project see pictures on this forum!Wheres the best place to sell my pristne show car
Good luck with your next car
I agree with mo4.5 take time on your M3 buying I payed top money for mine and i think its worth every penny
Selling mine for a classic car project see pictures on this forum!Wheres the best place to sell my pristne show car
Good luck with your next car
Look through the history file for things like Vanos filter and vanos bolts.
As long as the car looks tidy (rusty rear arches are common) and it has always been warmed properly (the oil temp guage on the dash isn't for novelty value) then as siad above they are robust and great value IMO.
Also look at gearboxes, especially in the EVO as it is a replacement job if it goes up the swanny. Check the tread on tyres, mine were worn when I bought, and was able to bargain a little. Just had Pilot Sports that were £130 a corner.
Try and join www.e36coupe.com for more details. They do vet the applicants, so best to email a mod if you can.
Good luck.
Just found this: http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/271993.htm - very nice.
As long as the car looks tidy (rusty rear arches are common) and it has always been warmed properly (the oil temp guage on the dash isn't for novelty value) then as siad above they are robust and great value IMO.
Also look at gearboxes, especially in the EVO as it is a replacement job if it goes up the swanny. Check the tread on tyres, mine were worn when I bought, and was able to bargain a little. Just had Pilot Sports that were £130 a corner.
Try and join www.e36coupe.com for more details. They do vet the applicants, so best to email a mod if you can.
Good luck.
Just found this: http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/271993.htm - very nice.
joesnow said:
Look through the history file for things like Vanos filter and vanos bolts.
As long as the car looks tidy (rusty rear arches are common) and it has always been warmed properly (the oil temp guage on the dash isn't for novelty value) then as siad above they are robust and great value IMO.
Also look at gearboxes, especially in the EVO as it is a replacement job if it goes up the swanny. Check the tread on tyres, mine were worn when I bought, and was able to bargain a little. Just had Pilot Sports that were £130 a corner.
Try and join www.e36coupe.com for more details. They do vet the applicants, so best to email a mod if you can.
Good luck.
Just found this: http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/271993.htm - very nice.
thanks i joined www.e36coupe.com yesterday still waiting for activation thoughAs long as the car looks tidy (rusty rear arches are common) and it has always been warmed properly (the oil temp guage on the dash isn't for novelty value) then as siad above they are robust and great value IMO.
Also look at gearboxes, especially in the EVO as it is a replacement job if it goes up the swanny. Check the tread on tyres, mine were worn when I bought, and was able to bargain a little. Just had Pilot Sports that were £130 a corner.
Try and join www.e36coupe.com for more details. They do vet the applicants, so best to email a mod if you can.
Good luck.
Just found this: http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/271993.htm - very nice.
i like the look of this one http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/217502.htm
Edited by y2blade on Wednesday 24th October 11:26
Looks nice. There are a few options on the interiors. Schnell has lovely seats in cream leather and black alcantara. I have motorsport cloth with alcantara bolsters to grip you a bit on corners. With a grey dash it looks a bit bland. I've been looking at good quality Carbon inserts for the raised transmission tunnel area and panel above glovebox, not sure yet.
joesnow said:
Looks nice. There are a few options on the interiors. Schnell has lovely seats in cream leather and black alcantara. I have motorsport cloth with alcantara bolsters to grip you a bit on corners. With a grey dash it looks a bit bland. I've been looking at good quality Carbon inserts for the raised transmission tunnel area and panel above glovebox, not sure yet.
Silver alancantara and black leather
That black with red leather example is truly stunning
Great GT car I think. Enough grunt for some fun, relaxed cruiser when you want.
I opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
I opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
Edited by Cactussed on Wednesday 24th October 13:48
Cactussed said:
Great GT car I think. Enough grunt for some fun, relaxed cruiser when you want.
I opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
i didnt know you could get a auto-box on the E36 M3'sI opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
Edited by Cactussed on Wednesday 24th October 13:48
tell me more!! is it a switchable auto
i really dont know!!!!nice one....i love the autobox on my T5
y2blade said:
Cactussed said:
Great GT car I think. Enough grunt for some fun, relaxed cruiser when you want.
I opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
i didnt know you could get a auto-box on the E36 M3'sI opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
Edited by Cactussed on Wednesday 24th October 13:48
tell me more!! is it a switchable auto
i really dont know!!!!nice one....i love the autobox on my T5
It's not an auto as it doesn't have a torque converter - it still has a clutch, just not a foot operated one.I have the same spec as Cactussed and love it. Again, VANOS is probably a little over hyped although i did have mine replaced as a bit of prevenative maintenance. Spec change slightly between cars, obviously, but when buying one your buying on condition and history not milage.
M3John said:
y2blade said:
Cactussed said:
Great GT car I think. Enough grunt for some fun, relaxed cruiser when you want.
I opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
i didnt know you could get a auto-box on the E36 M3'sI opted for the SMG box as its unbeatable in traffic. Seriously. But I live in London. Economy on the motorway is great, town acceptable vis a vis performance. Miles better than the TVR anyway.
Get full history and go for condition. There are some real dogs and some v nice cars. You'll be able to spot the ones that have been looked after easily enough, same for the opposite. And mileage isn't necessarily a good indicator (although I bought mine with 60k on the clock).
Things that wear out are suspension bushes, rear top mounts (common rattle, cheap easy fix), drivers seat bolster, rear window and quarter rubber surrounds. There was a good buyers guide in BMW Car magazine a while back (May I think) which is helpful. Instrument lights tend to go, cheap and easy to fix. Brake light circuit error also common, brakes and lights still work, just a £10 switch that needs replacing (20 min DIY job again).
I'm v. happy with mine, but I bought me a good 'un. Only thing I'd sell for is if I manage to upgrade to an F355 (ongoing discussion with mrs cactussed)
Edited by Cactussed on Wednesday 24th October 13:48
tell me more!! is it a switchable auto
i really dont know!!!!nice one....i love the autobox on my T5
It's not an auto as it doesn't have a torque converter - it still has a clutch, just not a foot operated one.I have the same spec as Cactussed and love it. Again, VANOS is probably a little over hyped although i did have mine replaced as a bit of prevenative maintenance. Spec change slightly between cars, obviously, but when buying one your buying on condition and history not milage.
i honestly didnt know there was any other option than manual for the E36 M3's
Auto gearboxes have a torque converter and manual gearboxes like BMW's SMG (Sequental-Manual-Gearbox) have clutches. The differance being with the SMG is that you do not operate the clutch with your foot. It's controled by the car when you want to change gear. Thus making quicker gearchanges.
Have driven mine round the Nurburgring and it's very very impressive when on the circuit. It makes an average driver into a pretty good driver on the track.
Have driven mine round the Nurburgring and it's very very impressive when on the circuit. It makes an average driver into a pretty good driver on the track.
M3John said:
Auto gearboxes have a torque converter and manual gearboxes like BMW's SMG (Sequental-Manual-Gearbox) have clutches. The differance being with the SMG is that you do not operate the clutch with your foot. It's controled by the car when you want to change gear. Thus making quicker gearchanges.
Have driven mine round the Nurburgring and it's very very impressive when on the circuit. It makes an average driver into a pretty good driver on the track.
thanks for explaining that to me...the SMG sounds very clever Have driven mine round the Nurburgring and it's very very impressive when on the circuit. It makes an average driver into a pretty good driver on the track.
cheers
SMG on the E36 is a bit of a Marmite thing - you love it or you hate it. It isn't up to the standard of the E46 M3 SMG II (as you'd expect).
Most people prefer the manual E36 M3 (although tastes obviously vary), but SMG equipped cars seem to go for a premium - something I've never really understood. Due to the extra complexity of the SMG units, there is the potential for more costly repairs.
Most people prefer the manual E36 M3 (although tastes obviously vary), but SMG equipped cars seem to go for a premium - something I've never really understood. Due to the extra complexity of the SMG units, there is the potential for more costly repairs.
dan101smith said:
SMG on the E36 is a bit of a Marmite thing - you love it or you hate it. It isn't up to the standard of the E46 M3 SMG II (as you'd expect).
Most people prefer the manual E36 M3 (although tastes obviously vary), but SMG equipped cars seem to go for a premium - something I've never really understood. Due to the extra complexity of the SMG units, there is the potential for more costly repairs.
i think i'll continue looking for manual box E36 M3'sMost people prefer the manual E36 M3 (although tastes obviously vary), but SMG equipped cars seem to go for a premium - something I've never really understood. Due to the extra complexity of the SMG units, there is the potential for more costly repairs.
thanks
Cactussed said:
Everyone says that.
Like most things, you need to try it. I still think its great.
Like most things, you need to try it. I still think its great.
i'll have to echo Cactussed comment here. I think it's amazing and if i could, i wouldn't go back to a `regular` manual. SMG for me is perfect. Ok it's not as refined as later vertions but after nearly 4 years of ownership i'm not looking back one bit. All i'd say is if you can, get a drive in one - not a round the block drive, a real drive with varying types of road's and conditions. You may not like it but at least you tried before jumping on the `I Hate SMG Bandwagon` Edited by M3John on Wednesday 24th October 18:53
M3John said:
Cactussed said:
Everyone says that.
Like most things, you need to try it. I still think its great.
Like most things, you need to try it. I still think its great.
i'll have to echo Cactussed comment here. I think it's amazing and if i could, i wouldn't go back to a `regular` manual. SMG for me is perfect. Ok it's not as refined as later vertions but after nearly 4 years of ownership i'm not looking back one bit. All i'd say is if you can, get a drive in one - not a round the block drive, a real drive with varying types of road's and conditions. You may not like it but at least you tried before jumping on the `I Hate SMG Bandwagon` Edited by M3John on Wednesday 24th October 18:53
dan101smith said:
Definitely worth trying one.
I've never been a fan of SMG in an E36, but then, bizarrely, I wouldn't consider an E46 M3 without it.
i wont count anything out tbh ,will deffo try and get a try of one with a SMG box then I've never been a fan of SMG in an E36, but then, bizarrely, I wouldn't consider an E46 M3 without it.
all my fiends M's are/were normal Manual's ... hence i'd never came across the SMG's before ,hence the silly questions a few posts up
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