Since so many of our members have experience with other high performance imports, especially BMW, I was hoping to get some feedback on a structural integrity question that has been often cited in the BMW club magazine. The problem pertains to the rear subframe mounting points. Although my S2000 has been wonderful beyond all expectations, I have owned several Bimmers in the past (still do) and was considering the purchase of a E36 M3.

I read in the July 2001 Roundel (BMWCCA mag) that the E36 rear mounting points tear out, leaving the car "junk" and irrepairable according to BMW service. This is what the article said and is of particular concern to me as a prospective buyer. Even used BMWs are not inexpensive and a lot of dollars could be easily lost. The same problem was again cited separately twice in my latest issue of the Roundel.

Years ago, I had the misfortune to have the "bazooka" tear out in my Porsche 911. This is the traverse tube holding the torsion bars in the old Porsche rear suspension. To have a new one welded in cost almost what I paid for the car. Don't want that to happen again. The problem is that it's impossible or nearly impossible to be sure of the integrity of the mounting points in both types of vehicles (or so it seems). Looking for any feedback on this issue that people may have. Do people check their rear frame mounting points? As great as the E36 is, if the BMWCCA is concerned about this phenomenon, one has to measure the risk of a very bad outcome. Thanks!