Advice Needed: Older 3 Series For Fun (and eventually) Son Getting Learner's Permit

Originally Posted by boltjaM3s

I'm confused.

Are you all saying that the E46 M3 didn't have a traditional automatic transmission but something that needed to be shifted without a clutch all the time akin to the gate in the Steptronic? If that's the case, yikes, the M3's out.

BJ

Yes.

E46 M3 was either a 6spd manual or SMG which was an automated manual...two pedals, could be driven as an automatic but a clunky one.

So no traditional torque converter automatic was offered.

Originally Posted by justinnum1

it did.

Originally Posted by Jamesonsviggen

Yes.

E46 M3 was either a 6spd manual or SMG which was an automated manual...two pedals, could be driven as an automatic but a clunky one.

So no traditional torque converter automatic was offered.

Thank you. Back to the ZHP as my answer. Any quirks or model years to avoid there (with AT as the only consideration)? Cabrio vs. Coupe, anything there?

BJ

+1

Originally Posted by boltjaM3s

Thank you. Back to the ZHP as my answer. Any quirks or model years to avoid there (with AT as the only consideration)? Cabrio vs. Coupe, anything there?

BJ

The most common annoyance issue with the E46 (at least as I remember it) were the window regulators. The auto windows would just stop working. Less than $100 to fix it, and even cheaper if you DIY.

Early E46s had steering rack problems but that was fixed quickly. Probably the most serious, and widely reported issue was with the subframe which was prone to "cracking". I don't know if they fixed it in later model years.

You want a 2004/2005 anyway because I believe that ZHP was only offered during those years.

Isn't this supposed to be your "fun" car?

Test drive a zhp or m3 with a 6 speed manual- it makes either of those two vehicles SO much more engaging to drive.

they are the last of the Ultimate Drinving Machine

The only logical choice left for you, and probably the best anyway, would be an Audi RS4 Convertible. The following link shows a 2008 currently for sale. Great car and one to keep for many years. It would also elevate your game in your upscale neighborhood. (sorry, just noticed this one is a proper 6 speed manual).

http://www.kbb.com/cars-for-sale/det...l&distance=200

At 40k you are already in e93 m3 range....

But no denying that the rs4 is nice!