135i OR e46 M3?

[e36chris]

Hey guys,

need your opinion and comments on this one (since we all know CDN prices), im kinda decided based on price but what are your thoughts,

i could snag a real good deal for a 2004-5 M3 convert for around 30k off a dealer friend, or wait a year and go into debt for a 62k 135i

the pro would be i could drive the M3 this summer, its an m3, i would love to tune a bit get some CSL parts etc.

the cons would be it would be hefty for repairs when that time comes, even though i know some mechanics the prices would still hurt.

I got quotes for the 135i, so i assume M3 might be a bit more or less or even, not 100% sure.. but im kinda leaning towards the M3, always loved the shape, unreal car,

I dunno, gimme ur thoughts.

Chris:thumbup:

[larryn]

Hi Chris.. you might want to run a search for threads with 'M3' and '135i' used in the title of the thread. I just did, and there's probably more than 10 threads with your exact same questions in them. Lot's of discussion already that should help you.

[e36chris]

sorry, you can delete save space, my bad

[bimmerfile]

Originally Posted by larryn

Hi Chris.. you might want to run a search for threads with 'M3' and '135i' used in the title of the thread. I just did, and there's probably more than 10 threads with your exact same questions in them. Lot's of discussion already that should help you.

larryn;
I think he's asking a legit question to the Canadian audience insofar as the answer here versus the same question asked stateside could (and in this case, will) be different - IMHO.
A new 135i vert in Canada is way more expensive than in the States, while a used M3 vert is priced similar to the U.S. because of the easy flow of used vehicles across the border.

Chris:
Get the M3 Vert and get the optional extended warranty from BMW on the M3 (to protect yourself against potential high repair costs).
Have fun this summer at half the cost..

[koala]

30k for an 04 or 05 M3 vert. is a great price, I hate used cars but I'd have a hard time justifying 30k more for the 135i over the E46 M3.

[warmtoes]

$30K is incredibly cheap for that year of vert. I would get that first.

[osc]

I went through the exact same decision in the last two months: 135i vs. 335i vs. E46 M3.

Coming from an S2000, here is my quick review:
135i
Pros: FAST, Lots of Power and Great Handling. A driver's car. Warranty and Service Included.
Cons: Price (for those leasing/financing) - Monthly payments (with M package) are the same as a 335i. The +2 backseats are not as functional.

335i
Pros: More functional with greater space. A better bang for the buck than the 135i. More comfortable ride. Warranty and Service Included.
Cons: A smoother ride. Blends in with all other 3 series cars

E46 M3
Pros: All-around amazing car - a benchmark. Fast, Amazing Handling and a Pleasure to drive - Period. Cheaper than the 135i and 335i. The true driver's car.
Cons: Possible High Maintenance Costs. No Warranty

Personally, I found a key driver to my decision was
1. I wanted functional backseats
2. I wanted a driver's car
3. I want the cost to justify the car and considering that my financing payments for the M3 is over $100 less/month than that of a 135i/335i 3 year lease AND I own the car in 4 years - This made the decision a little easier.

EDIT: 30k for a 04-05 Vert is an AMAZING deal - jump on it.

[stefan]

30K is pretty cheap.. I'd go for that!