New to BMWs - BMW Forum

NitroxDive · 07-26-2003, 04:14 PM

Hello,

I wasn't sure where to post this so I decided on this section. I'd like to purchase a used BMW for work and general every day driving. However, I am not sure which model to purchase. I do intend on modifying the car and it would be nice if the car could run with an Audi S4 Biturbo. I like the BMW because it's classy and refined, and overall appeals to me more than an Audi. So either the 3 Series or M3 are the models I am looking at with a top price range of $20,000. 5 speed is a must. Plus $5,000 to $8,000 for modifying. I'd like some suggestions and opinions on what to purchase and I do realize a car is a personal choice, but it helps to hear other people's views.

Thanks

fatty · 07-26-2003, 04:22 PM

best thing to do is go out there and test drive as many different Bm's you can and get a feel for what your looking for in a car......

NitroxDive · 07-26-2003, 05:04 PM

Being able to beat an S4 isn't a must have, althought it would be nice to get the car into the 13s.

Thanks

fatty · 07-26-2003, 05:22 PM

suppose as well it depends on what model as well your looking for.......

GreenDragon · 07-26-2003, 06:35 PM

With that monetary figure you should look at a 95-ish M3. Then chip, exhaust system (this means from headers back), CAI (for the hell of it), possible port and polish, maybe some N2O (although you end up doing more damage with N2O due to oxidation), and that may get you there.

I'm not sure if you could get a newer (e46) 330 for that price range ... have you searched AutoTrader and such?

woobiee · 07-26-2003, 06:41 PM

yeah i dont think you can get an E46 for under $20k. Maybe if you are lucky a 323i. You can then supercharge the 323i, get exhaust, chip and youll prob be in the 250-275hp range. I would also suggest the E36 M3. We just got a M roadster and it shares the same engine as the E36 M3, and I believe the M roadster is a 13sec car (maybe 14)

i am a strong anti-N20, never liked it, and the feeling that it seems to eat away your engine everytime you use it is something i do not want.

GreenDragon · 07-26-2003, 06:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by woobiee@Jul 26 2003, 10:21 PM
yeah i dont think you can get an E46 for under $20k. Maybe if you are lucky a 323i. You can then supercharge the 323i, get exhaust, chip and youll prob be in the 250-275hp range. I would also suggest the E36 M3. We just got a M roadster and it shares the same engine as the E36 M3, and I believe the M roadster is a 13sec car (maybe 14)

i am a strong anti-N20, never liked it, and the feeling that it seems to eat away your engine everytime you use it is something i do not want.

Comp[ared to the full M3 that roadster must be light as fudge huh! Yeah, the N2O oxidizes your internals, turns your pistons into pumpkins

woobiee · 07-26-2003, 06:56 PM

i checked and its surprising to say, the 2000 M Roadster is 3086 lbs while the 1995 M3 is 3175 lbs. So its a 89 lb diff which isnt that much. I would assume they both would have similar performance numbers.

MrM3 · 07-26-2003, 07:02 PM

avg 1/4mile time for a e36 m3 is about 14.2, but i ve heard of people getting 13.9 in certain conditions. if you wanna spend 5-8k in mods then deffinately go FI no matter what model you get. you may be able to SC a 97 M3 with your budget

NitroxDive · 07-26-2003, 07:13 PM

Alright, after looking on cars.com and here, I think I'll go with a 95ish M3. Will the internals handle stock boost from a supercharger?

Thanks

GreenDragon · 07-26-2003, 07:40 PM

Maybe, but I wouldn't trust them to. That's a personal thing though.

EXtech · 07-27-2003, 04:18 PM

5spd E36 M3 with a supercharger. Or an M coupe/roadster with a supercharger. Go with a vortech supercharger. Best bang for the buck and all around fun and driveability. I have driven all types of different BMWs with all kinds of different power enhancements. I think this is what you are looking for, find one of the mentioned cars above, low mileage, clean, then by the supercharger. You'll love it.