2006 M3 convertible vs 2007 335i convertible

[YOX]

This is my first posting. I am looking to purchase either a 2006 M3 convertible or a 2007 335i convertible, both with 6 speed manual. Looking at cars.com and autotrader.com, I have found a reasonable M3 for $35K and a 335i for about $40K. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[witeshark]

First Now to your question: the 335i may prove to be more fun money wise by being less to insure. Just a thought. It also may have been a bit less hard driven by previous owner(s).

[YOX]

Since this is my second car/fun car, the insurance for an M3 for 6 months is only $300. With insurance costs aside, now what is your opinion?

[witeshark]

In that case, the 335i is newer, which has less miles? After that, it all comes down to the ///M factor

[YOX]

Thanks for the really fast replies. I see that you have 7,526 posts, and probably have driven numerous BMW's, so I value and appreciate your opinions. Both the used cars that I am looking at have about the same mileage. I plan on keeping the car for many years and only putting on 2000-5000 miles per year during the summer months. I don't really need the hardtop, since I'll have the top down most of the time. Does the M3 perform that much better than the 335i? I would like to buy the car soon, during the cold winter months, because I'll probably get the best deal. Thanks again for your help.

[witeshark]

For that kind of weekend driving, I really think that the 335i would equal the M3 overall.

[denyo77]

but the M3 has the wow-factor. And a better sound

[Nick_318is]

M3, its the only way to go. And get a coupe it looks better.

[BMWides110377]

If you get the M3 you will soon discover that you will be driving much more than 2-3K just during the summer months....it is quite an addictive ride