I just ordered an o2 convertible, silver, SMG, M3. It will not be replacing my s but will be part of the stable I hope to create. My question is after reading some of the more recent post on this forum have they been experiencing engine difficulties and has the SMG technology been proven reliable yet? Lastly any thoughts on which car I will enjoy driving more? The M3 is supposed to be for the wife but of course she will still need the Navigator for the kids leaving me with ample opportunity to choose.

 

I've been following the M3 engine failures by reading different BMW forums and asking BMWNA some questions. I'm no expert but so far it seems that there was a manufacturing defect in late 2001 that caused almost all of the failures. My guess is that BMW discovered the defect in Dec 2001 and then began to fix the problem.

This is the company response I got from BMWNA:

"The facts on the M3 engine are that the problem has affected a very small
percentage of cars. In cases where it was determined that there was any defect
in design or workmanship, BMW repaired or replaced engines under warranty.
We have been stressing to new M3 owners the importance of following the
break-in procedures which are printed in the Owners' Manual. At the present
time our BMWNA Engineering Group is investigating with BMW in Germany
regarding concerns of the M3 engine. The problem at this time appears to be
with late 2001 production cars, we hope to have more detailed information in
the near future on this issue. Keep in touch with your dealer for future updated
info. We believe in our products and will stand behind them. Your patience
is appreciated."


BTW - I've also ordered an '02 M3, but mine is a 6-speed coupe.

 

Brother has one, Black with Cinamon leather, very nice! SMG Trans also and the nice 19" Euro Spec Rims... SMG is quite easy to operate, wish my S2K had it...

 

There it is.... ahh what a beauty! Too bad he is going to sell it...

 

Nice ride, I heard for a friend that the SMG works really well, and feels much better than the old school trans-u-matics. I'd like to drive one someday because somehow I prefer the feel of a clutch regardless of how well the computer shifts. A downside (depending on your personal feelings) is that the SMG doesn't have a regular automatic mode, so you loose the clutch feel and don't gain the ability to turn the car into an auto if you got stuck in traffic.

 

Welcome to the club!

 

I've heard the SMG isn't as fast and the 6 speeds in mag test. In theory SMG+BMW launch control = faster times hasn't been proven so far off the race track. Maybe the test mags aren't accustomed to diving them. They are also getting slower times with the new Mr2 Spyder unit. The only cars with manu-matics that magazines have been getting faster times than traditional manuals are Ferrari's, but gated shifters aren't the best.

Sam

 

In C&D's hands, the SMG was slower than a manual. Don't U.S. cars lack the launch assist thingy though? Either way, cool car. Congratz.

 

Will this car be faster than my S? I am quite sure it will not handle as well but it should be faster should it not?

 

it will most definitely be faster than the S. but a SC S would be a different story.