E36 vs. E46

[jfklein]

Would anyone care to let me know what the main pros and cons are for the E36 and E46 models? And are there any thought about which was the better model during it's time.

I imagine this topic has been beaten to death in the past, so if there is a good thread I'd appreciate if you can direct me to it.

-Jonathan

[amancuso]

e46 is newer... I'd love to have one, but my e36 is paid off and is showing no signs of an early death :)

[320what?]

much better interior quality in E46, much improved safety, bit on a softer side driving wise, generally a superb car with few design issues such as subframe mounts, blown turbo on diesels, and few other issues, but a better car then the E36. But look at condition. Late model E36 and early model E46 might cost not too differently but in that case get E36 - would be safer I guess. If Money is not so issue here, then E46 would be better bet. Interior imho is so much better then in E36 that alone makes it worth it - high quality materials, not so much of rattling noises...

But E36 imho design wise a gorgeous car, while E46 is so so. but let's not built arguments here in favour of one particular car on taste. :)

[HandOfFate]

The '99 M3 is my favorite car of all time!

[E36FewInNumber]

much better interior quality in E46, much improved safety, bit on a softer side driving wise, generally a superb car with few design issues such as subframe mounts, blown turbo on diesels, and few other issues, but a better car then the E36. But look at condition. Late model E36 and early model E46 might cost not too differently but in that case get E36 - would be safer I guess. If Money is not so issue here, then E46 would be better bet. Interior imho is so much better then in E36 that alone makes it worth it - high quality materials, not so much of rattling noises...

But E36 imho design wise a gorgeous car, while E46 is so so. but let's not built arguments here in favour of one particular car on taste. :)

totaly agree, the e36 looks better, but the e46's interior is so so so so much better. i believe the interior is the e36's downfall.

[B/\/\W]

totaly agree, the e36 looks better, but the e46's interior is so so so so much better. i believe the interior is the e36's downfall.

+ 100%

[Vornado]

If you can afford it, get an E46.. if not, get the E36 and convince yourself that it looks better.

[TheOnlyE36]

The '99 M3 is my favorite car of all time!

Sure thing! :thumbup:

[lochness]

e46 is larger and heavier both noticable when driving.

Agreed e46 interior is much better and find seating position to be much more comfortable.

Exterior styling is subjective as I prefer the e46.

[milobloom242]

My e46 has been much more reliable than my old e36, and is holding up much better. Then again, I beat the crap out of the e36.

[jasonf860]

The '99 M3 is my favorite car of all time!

-1
E30 M3 > everything