I know I'm posting this in an S2k forum but I once drove an E46 M3 and sold it due to financial reasons and picked up an S2k. I love the S2k, but really want back into an M3 (mainly due to torque + practicality reasons). Let's say you currently don't have a car and have a $22k budget... if you had a chance to choose between a 2006 S2k with 20-30k miles or a 2002 E46 M3 with 50k miles which would you choose (assuming both stock)?

Ok, I'm pretty sure I know 99% of the answers and am dumb for posting this, but was just curious...

 

Honestly im also considering the same, I didnt take the time to think of the practicality issues because I had found a great price and jumped the gun but im also considering parting out and selling the s for m3 or a 328.

 

I've considered this a lot too but I don't think its worth it for me to get rid of a really good low milleage S for a >50k mile M3. of course, I'm also in college and wouldn't want the hit of increased insurance and maintenance costs.

Its a great car though, can't go wrong either way.

 

i contemplated the same thing but after seeing what my friend went through with his 2002 e46 the s2000 is a much more practical daily driver and way more reliable no matter how much you baby the m3.

 

I've already done it. The M3 is waaay faster, but the S2000 is more fun to drive. I only did it so I could get a back seat.

 

I wouldn't choose the E46 but I fail to see how that's relevant to your decision making process (I'm not fixated on torque and use my SO's car for hauling people/stuff)... Go with what you want.

 

S54 requires heavy maintenance I'm just too accustomed to Hondas

 

Heard that high mileage E46 M3s are a PIA to maintain.

 

Really? Are you sure about that?

 

I'm debating selling my 04 S2k and keeping my 335 that is supposed to get turned in in 2 months. I really like my S2k, it's fun, reliable, cheap, looks great..but I miss the power, brakes and overall feel of the BMW. If I weren't buying a house now I would probably sell the S2k and keep the 335 or grab a 135.

The BMW will cost you a lot more to maintain than the S2k. Depends what your priorities are. I DD my S2k, it is comfortable and fun. The thing that keeps me in my S2k is the payment, it's a lot cheaper than my 335 would be. Equal payments, I would be in my 335.