except for the fact that they are wildly expensive to maintain and you run the risk of cracking the subframe just from daily driving. i did a fair share of research on them at one point and realized i would never buy one now.

plus 17.5k will not buy an 04-05, maybe an 02-03

 

Yes maintenance would be more than an S2k, as with any German sports car. The subframe issue can be fixed for around $2K which would remedy the problem. I, also, have done a lot of research on this. Most of the E46 M3 just like S2ks, need preventive maintenance. As long as you perform those, the car is very reliable. Other things to look out for on a e46 m3, make sure rod bearing recall was performed if the car is <02. On a higher mileage car get the VANOs and CAM Chain tensioner checked, as those gets worn. Other than that, they are great cars and very good power out of the box.

 

^I just heard about the subframe issue in a local chat. Seems the problem is quite common!

 

Wow, I hope this never happens to anyone else on this forum, but somehow history will repeat itself.

 

So all the cars I have looked at are somewhat out of my price range. Is 350, audi A5 and the G37.
Now, the reason as why I'm looking at this cars?.U might ask.
Well the insurance happened to give a 2012 C250 as a rental. Man that thing drives so smooth and while is not and S2. It seems much nicer to be driving every day and for the really long drives too.
Too bad its going back on Sunday, so I might have to ride the bus it to work. Until I decide if I want start a debt again.
Since the S2 was paid off.
Oh an looking at the BRZ apperantly there having all kinds of issues.