I'm thinking of purchasing a 96-99 M3 Coupe

[///Merlin]

I'm thinking of getting a BMW for my next car.... however I haven't settled on which model.

I'm thinking of purchasing a 96-99 M3 Coupe, and I have a lot of questions.
(I can't purchase a 95 M3 because they can't be imported into Canada)

-What should I look out for?
-What are common issues with those years?
-Is there a way to get a spec sheet of what the car came with from the factory based on the VIN #?
-Is rust a major concern with these cars, and if so, where should I look for it?
-What engine/transmission trouble could I expect?
-Are there different suspension, engine or transmission options?

Is there anything else I be aware of?

Thanks
Merlin

[///Merlin]

Can anyone tell me if that "red light" in the photo below is stock, and/or is this car missing options, because it looks like 2 of the places for buttons aren't used.

[Teh Prof]

I think that red light has to do with the security system. I could never quite figure out what it was for on my M3.

[drz]

I don't think you're "missing options." If I am not mistaken, the other button location is used for the convertible top up/down control.

[dannyb]

'95 not allowed in Canada? When did this happen?

[///Merlin]

Originally Posted by drz

I don't think you're "missing options." If I am not mistaken, the other button location is used for the convertible top up/down control.

That's what my friend thought too..... he has a 95.

Originally Posted by dannyb

'95 not allowed in Canada? When did this happen?

I'm guessing it happened in 06 or this year. When my friend imported his 95 back in 05 it had ** beside it. Now it's under the inadmissible list.

BTW, does anyone have any photos of the two different types of leather seats in the E36 M3? The normal seats are called "Vader" seats? and then there's the "Luxury" seats which were 8 way electronic seats in the "Luxury Package".
If someone has photos of the different seats that would be great!

Thanks

[Linds]

The "missing" button was the harmon kardon hi fi system on my 323.

[Wonderboy]

also a major area to look at would be the rear shock mounts. they are known to be a weak point on the e36. one of mine went bad... ouch. Turnermotorsports.com has a kit to strengthen that area. Well worth the investment.
Turner Motorsport - Item# TSU9975100 - Rear Shock Tower Mount Reinforcement Kit - E36 E46

[///Merlin]

Thanks for the info...

Does anyone have pix of the differences between the two spoiler options for the M3? ... and which one should be on an M3 Coupe.

Thanks

[///M Power]

The red light blinks when the alarm is armed. It's to warn thieves that "HEY THIS CAR HAS AN ALARM. GET A REAL JOB"

The 2 different spoilers look nearly identical to most people. They are low rise spoiler where one is a bit more arched than the other, which is flat topped. The arch I believe was only available in late 98 and 99.

[///Merlin]

Is there a certain M3 Couple Spoiler? or are they both available on the M3 coupe? I've been trying to find photos of them, but I'm not sure if/when I'm looking at something that is aftermarket or not.

[Wonderboy]

not to my knowledge