Hey everyone,

I am contemplating jumping into a Supercharged E46 M3, but not sure if it's the best idea and frankly my wants get the best of me (I've made a few costly mistakes in the past because of this ). So, I would like to consult the s2ki community on what you all think... here is my situation:

I currently own an S2000 which I love and is totally paid off. I sold my previous E46 M3 which I sadly overpaid for because I didn't want to make my $500/month car payments (which I can afford but don't like being in debt). I currently do not own a house or have very many expenses, but would like to purchase a condo or home in the upcoming year or two. However, I ran across a supercharged E46 M3 with my dream mods, color, and options at a killer deal. I'm debating whether I should suck it up and make car payments again on the car of my realistic dreams which could delay me getting a condo/house for another year or so. I am also worried about the upkeep and maintenance on a S/C M3, but it's running low boost and has been recently installed by a reputable shop. The car also has low miles and my monthly payments would be about the same on my last M3.

On one hand, this is a chance for me to be able to "carpe diem" which I rarely do as almost everything I do I reflect on my future and future consequences. Since I have no family, kids, or many expenses yet I figure it's my one chance to own such a car. However, I don't like the idea of having such a nice car but not owning my own home and making car payments on a 4 year old car definitely doesn't sound so good. My gut and conscience is saying no, but my heart is 100000000% for it. I would probably have pulled the trigger by now if it wasn't for my fear of maintenance and upkeep costs.

If anyone has any input, thoughts, or have been in a similar situation, please share your knowledge and thoughts!

 

Honestly, I'd say hold out and buy the house or condo first. The market is soft and who knows if you'll get a deal on house within the next couple of years that you wouldn't get if you bought the M and postponed it. I think the better decision is to keep the S and get the house. I understand that car is a dream, but I'd give up any car for a home. Think of what's a better investment and you should have your answer.

 

Maint. and upkeep is going to cost you an arm and a leg unless you can afford to do it yourself. Keep the S2000, with the economy being slow and what not, I wouldn't want to tack on any debt that wasn't necessary. Don't delay buying a condo or house because you are making payments on a depreciating asset.

 

keep the S, buy the condo. you can always get a KW or VT SC for your S2000.

 

Vehicle = Expense
House = Asset

+1 on taking advantage of a weak real estate market.

 

hmm, that IS a very difficult decision. But if you're not planning on having kids or start a family any time soon...I'd say go for the M. Live your dreams first, and this M seems to have EVERYTHING you want in a car, why not go for it. The economy is not going anywhere any time soon, just my 2 cents.

 

I agree with everyone of those guys up there. It would be wise to invest in a house or condo at this time if your income and job stability is there. The real estate market is down and is definitely a buyer's market at this point. The M3 can wait. There will always be one down the line. The M3 upkeep is expensive compared to the S2000.

Keep the S2000 and get your home.

 

This really isnt a hard decision at all, buy a house and Turbo/SC the S.............

 

i also vote for the house option. this is like when i was debating buying the new CTS when it first came out (wanted the optional pearl white paint with chrome rims /w white walls). i realized this:

whats the point of getting a new cool car with no garage to put it in? are you really going to be happy with a dirty SC M3?

take advantage of the weak market, and if u really feel bad - just go FI on the S with some other light mods. it'll b as fast but more rare than the M3 (at least surely would b here)

 

it always comes down to the running costs.... if you cannot afford those, do yourself a favor and wait until you can... I wanted an S for 3 years and could only afford it since 1...