Faults:

Alternator.

RTABs.

Steering rack.

General Comments:

After much research and debate I decided to buy this car to use as a DD. I've always liked the car's looks, and many reviews state this is the ultimate M3, and one of the best BMWs that can be bought. However, the potential costs of ownership kept me away. What flipped the switch was my wife's approval - she likes how it looks! (BTW, we are both in our mid-50s).

I wasn't really looking for a coupe, as I prefer 4 doors, but I had to have a manual trans. Manuals are very hard to come by anymore in sedans, so I was open to a coupe, and ended up with one. That has not been an issue.

I also ended up with an SMG car, not a 3-pedal manual car. I won't get into all the debate about SMG - you can read it for yourself on the web - but I like it. It gives me the connectedness of a manual, with the convenience of not having to push a clutch, and the option of full auto operation if desired. So far, no issues.

I use this car as my DD and it fills that purpose well. I prefer a highly responsive car and this fits the bill. It's great for navigating Houston traffic.

In return for responsiveness I give up a cushy ride. This thing rides hard, in part due to the 19 inch wheels, in part due to the near-race suspension. But it is still a comfortable cabin to be in. I have taken it on a few 3 hour trips and found it acceptable.

Repairs haven't been bad, although I do all my own work which cuts cost. The original alternator had to be replaced. Fortunately it did not leave me stranded. I just replaced the RTABs - a normal wear item - but a pain to replace. I replaced the steering guibo, and am in the midst of replacing the rack. Neither of these are difficult and the cost is reasonable. The biggest headache has been getting parts. Everything has to be ordered, and to reduce freight costs I choose economy shipping, which takes about a week.

So far the positives outweigh the negatives, and much is forgiven when the right pedal is matted, the paddle shifters are clicking, and the engine is singing its 7800 RPM song.

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

This car is a joy to drive. Limitless power it seems... great handling, looks awesome. I use to own a 1995 540i 6 speed manual sport... that was a nice car, but this one is simply the best I have ever driven.

Back seat lot better then expected.

Little nervous about not having a spare tire. May buy a kit just case.

Sound system not good. BMW needs to step up and deliver a system inline with the performance of the car. 60k ought to buy you an awesome system. HK is not even close.

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

The M3 is a near perfect blend of everyday practicality and uncompromising performance. For those individuals who desire that combination the M3 is hard to beat. You can pay a lot more, but you will be hard pressed to get a better overall value.

Faults:

No problems as of yet. With less than 10k miles, there had better be no problems.

General Comments:

You probably hear this from every other M3 owner, but this car is simply incredible. The fact that BMW could squeeze 333hp from 3.2 liters of naturally aspirated motor is amazing.

The acceleration is great, and that sound is oh so sweet. I opted for the standard 6 speed, rather than the SMG. I would just rather have a gearbox that is trouble free.

I am NOT a fan of BMW's navigation system, so I didn't get it on this one. My buddy's 2002 540i has it, and it just seems to have lots of quirks.