M-Series (M1, M3, M5, M6)General M-Series Discussion - If it does not fit into a more specific M Category above, please place it in here. In addition, previously archived M-Series discussion is located in this section.
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Just bought a 3 series for what i thought was gonna for me but quickly realized that my wife needs a car (my excuse for getting another one ) ive been test driving the m3's lately and am very impressed. Never have driven an m5 but i do like sedans better than coupes (just think they look nicer) wondering what the over all opinion is in the M forums. Wait for the new m5 or dish out the dough now for the m3? is there a large difference in speed, handleing, resale? thanks for the info.
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The M3 is a better performer... but I'm not sure against the new ones, but that's how it's been in the past. You'll have more problems with the M5. The BMW V-8 has tons of problems. 740s and 540s getting new engines after 50k miles (Consumer Reports complained of the 5 and 7 series and my mechanic confirmed it). Not a good sign. I would go for the M3, unless you've got small kids or are expecting them. Child seat in the back of the M3 isn't something I would like.
Ok, well except kids, if you drive a lot of people in your car, business or personal, the M5 is much roomier....however, I have fit 3 full size adults and me in my M3 just fine.
If you plan to go to the track on occation, the M3 is smaller so will handel better and be more agile, especially around turns, in a strait line they are very similar.
Also as quality goes, I agree with thekid that the BMW V8 has been a problem prone engine.
If you have kids, you would want more of a family car, so I would go with an E-500. Its a hot car, loaded with luxery options, and is an automatic so your wife can drive it no problems (unless she knows how to drive stick, then I apologize). The E46 M3 is more of a "guys" car cause its really fast, and sporty.
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) ive been test driving the m3's lately and am very impressed. Never have driven an m5 but i do like sedans better than coupes (just think they look nicer) wondering what the over all opinion is in the M forums. Wait for the new m5 or dish out the dough now for the m3? is there a large difference in speed, handleing, resale? thanks for the info. 
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