Good Year For M3

[LordPhoenix]

Hey Guys.

Been pondering on which year model is the best for an E46 M3. See a lot of 2001-2003 models on sale.

Any issues? Or should one rather look for 2004-2005?

I'm not sure what the differences were besides a facelift

 

[UpNcOmiNg!]

I personally like the 2004 onwards. And that's all that I know about anything. :fencelook:
I think there was a revision of the SMG to SMG II, also the led taillights are really nice. Ha! Ha!

 

[SP33DYV]

Try and get a 2005 or even a 2006. They will have lower mileage and the LED tail lights.

 

[Peertjies]

i would worry more about the condition of the car than the year model. I bought a 2003 model. LED tailights and no problems with the rod bearing that was a problem with the older models.
The car was well looked after and I can say I'm very happy. Almost bought a 2005 model for 60k more and very glad i didn't as that thing looked bit dodgy.
So in my opinion rather look for a well looked after car than than newer model. Especially if you will be keeping the ///M for a long time! :thumbs:

 

[4PipeR]

I say you must look for colour ... laguna seca's are faster lol :joy:

 

[calypso]

The one in the best condition with the best history is the best year.

 

[OppositeLockMT]

I don't think age really matters as much with these cars anymore. You just need to find one that has been looked after.

 

[LordPhoenix]

I was worried more about any mechanical or other flaws/issues that might have been fixed or redesigned on later year models.

 

[RowenS]

The one in the best condition with the best history is the best year.

x2. My 2002 has absolutely no issues.

 

[444YYY]

I was worried more about any mechanical or other flaws/issues that might have been fixed or redesigned on later year models.

This is true, manufacturers are always updating parts etc.
Get the last batch, obviously condition and service history and the way it was driven, also count!...

Ideal world situation..

 

[Philip Foglar]

Had a look at a 2003 model with decent mileage, but the exterior condition was really really bad with all the rubbers being toast (how can someone owning a car like this let it rot outside in the sun and the elements?!) - mechanicals seemed a bit tired and there was a strange rattling noise on pull off or at low crawling speeds on the test drive while in traffic. Different tyres on the same axle and the left front tyre had obvious signs of some pretty serious cornering! :fencelook:

And then they want to insist that this is immaculate and the high price is fair! :nonono:

 

[Andy1GP]

The one in the best condition with the best history is the best year.

Good Advice!

Condition dictates all. If you want the facelift with LED tailights etc, Then look for '03 onwards (F/L was actually in sept '02 I think :dunno:

 

[Philip Foglar]

Wasn't it later in 2003?

 

[Yulz9081]

Wasn't it later in 2003?

Sep '03 AFAIK

 

[Philip Foglar]

Wasn't it later in 2003?

Sep '03 AFAIK

:thumbs: