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What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each)
by fdg07
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Aug 08, 2006 (2:17 pm)
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Which of these is better buy, 1999 M3 2dr or 2001 330ci? I have seen that a used 1999 m3 can cost as much as nearly a 2002 or 2003 BMW 330ci. Thats pretty interesting despite that fact that the M3 is a super car. Id like to know which one is the better buy and why? I am looking for acceleration, handling, and overall performance. Which do you think will be more reliable? Looks also count, but performance is more for me in my opinion. Thank you very much for your time.
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- #2 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
by quattroporte12
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Aug 09, 2006 (9:19 pm)
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Replying to: fdg07 (Aug 08, 2006 2:17 pm)
THE 330ci BY FAR!!! It is a generation ahead, which means you get much netter looks, and as far as the performance goes, the 330ci is a VERY peppy car with performance very similar to the previouis generation m3 (whenever a new generation model comes out, it always has improved performance, so the newer 330ci may be equal to the older m3). Dont just go for the older car because its a m3. in 2 years it will be decade old technology, and plus the old m3's have become "wanabie" cars, like the hondas you see with giant mufflers on the back of them. Go with the 330ci, hands down. 
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- #3 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
by div2
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Aug 10, 2006 (5:33 am)
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Replying to: fdg07 (Aug 08, 2006 2:17 pm)
I think that you need to drive both and make your own decision. An E36 M3 offers a more visceral and involving driving experience, but don't take my word for it-similar comments were made by Car and Driver, Car, BMW Car, and Roundel, just to name a few. Since an E36 will cost less you might well have more money available for performance upgrades. On the other hand, while I don't know about the "netter" looks, the E46 is more sophisticated and offers more luxurious touches, but it is still a fine sports sedan. It all depends on your priorities. Ya pays yer money...
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- #4 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
by gordonwd
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Aug 10, 2006 (5:42 am)
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Replying to: fdg07 (Aug 08, 2006 2:17 pm)
I would also expect that the M3 has been flogged harder than the 330. People don't generally buy M3s unless they expect to drive them hard, or else why buy an M at all?
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- #5 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [quattroporte12]
by div2
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Aug 10, 2006 (6:07 am)
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Replying to: quattroporte12 (Aug 09, 2006 9:19 pm)
Interesting observations. How many E36 M3s have you driven? What about E46 330is?
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- #6 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
by Mr_Shiftright HOST
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Aug 10, 2006 (8:06 am)
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Replying to: fdg07 (Aug 08, 2006 2:17 pm)
I think the 330 is the better buy. There's no reason why an used M car should cost so much--historically they are not particulary good at holding their value, asking prices notwithstanding. And an old BMW out of warranty makes a person nervous anyway. If you could find a certified 330, maybe a 2002 and up, that would be the way to go.
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- #7 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [div2]
by quattroporte12
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Aug 10, 2006 (10:13 am)
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Replying to: div2 (Aug 10, 2006 6:07 am)
I have not driven the E36 M3, i know only what i have read and observed. in MY opinion, i would go with the 330ci. 
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- #9 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [quattroporte12]
by fdg07
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Aug 10, 2006 (2:01 pm)
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Replying to: quattroporte12 (Aug 10, 2006 10:13 am)
Oh ok thank you very much for your opinions, its taking a lead on me, so far 330ci sounds like a better buy, anymore comments will be very appreciated! Wouldnt the m3 have better handling or better tranny or brakes then the 330ci? I mean arent the mechanical parts of the m3 made to handle more power then the 330ci if I put on lets say a chip or turbo?? im also wondering which one has the better braking and which one requires more maintanance and is more expensive to repair and maintane despite its age( I know a 99 is not going to last as long)? thanks guys, this is what makes this a great site, your support!!!
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- #10 of 455
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
by fdg07
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Aug 10, 2006 (2:05 pm)
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Replying to: fdg07 (Aug 10, 2006 2:01 pm)
Would a chip(add more power) lower the life of the engine such as the supercharger does? would a turbo lower the life of an engine as well?
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