Hey guys, I posted this on the M section and not getting much response and I know many have converted from a M3 to a TT so maybe you TT guys will have more input. I am considering 05-06 M3 convert for my next business lease car (keeping the TT). Any inputs to reliability of M3's, any SMG problems? or stay with 6spd? I really like the current E46 M3 convert esp with the competition package with 19" and suspension etc. I think it will be a fun car to run around in - but want a fairly reliable car.
Thanks for any comments. Ted

 

I have no personal experience of owning one, but I have driven quite a few. I really dont like the SMG, feels to harsh at times

 

Jamie, my name says it all Anyway, i will be getting another M3 also for daily use in october or so when my G35 is up on lease, i still love them and they are amazing car's. My 02 M3 gave me not one problem reliability wise when stock, i had a 6spd also BTW. You should check E46 fanatics under the M3 section, a few people have posted about their SMG problem's.

I say go for it, i think they are the best every day car's, period. Cruise around town, go for a spirited drive, even in stock form they can be rather good at the track, again, i love them! I dont recommend the SMG, i felt is was very bland, it wasnt rough having owning an M3 and manual car, you get use to applying throttle on upshifts and downshifts to make it smoother but it can be rough as mentioned, all depends on the driver IMO. I say go for the 6speed, it feels 100x more raw/to life!

BTW im almost 100% positive the ZCP (Cometition Package) is not available for the convertible's, doesnt mean you cannot add the CSL style wheels and different suspension though. You will not get the M track mode, different steering rack/ratio though!

 

I also had an '02 SMG M3 for two years and loved it. No reliability problems and a blast to drive at the limit. In fact, it was more fun than the 996TT, as you could drive it with the throttle and throw it sideways everywhere.

The SMG vs. 6spd debate is a "no win" conversation. You will find a million posts on the subject over at roadfly.com. Go check out the E46 M3 forum and do a search.....you should have enough to read for days on the subject. Suffice it to say, that IMHO, if you have a 6spd 996TT then I would definitely go for the SMG. It is a great transmission if you spend the time to learn how to use it properly, but it DOES take time to master. Either way, the E46 M3 is a great reliable car (especially the 03's and newer). Enjoy.

 

Well, I have had an 01, 02, & 03 w/ both trannys & and I can tell you it is a great daily driver. No reliablity issues with any of mine and they are a blast to ring out.

 

thanks guys, when is the new M3 with the V8 hitting the market? I am sure it will drop the value of the E46.

 

Read this....

http://members.roadfly.com/jason/m3engines.htm

 

07? The spy pics keep revealing more and more.... check around on the m3 forums... they've got 'em all over the place.

 

Had an 04 with SMG. You need to test drive both to see which tranny suits you the best, smg takes a little getting used to, but once you do you can throttle blip and get pretty smooth and shifting. No reliability issues at all and a very fun car to drive.

 

The only M3s with issues were 02 models built between 09/01 and 11/01. They needed crank bearings replaced. BMW recalled and fixed them. I have heard of no issues otherwise.

They are great cars to drive everyday. If you're a real sports car guy and sensitive about performance I woudl stay away from the ragtops. Like most ragtops they are not as solid feeling structurally and the extra weight can be felt.

 

i have an 02 M3 and the reliability has been great. illm3 is right about there not being a ZCP for the convertible. good luck on getting the car!

Ross

 

i had an 2003 m3 smg for two years, the car before my 911 (which is now for sale ) and i loved it.

pics: http://www.dimisaonline.com/BMW/album0.html

it could possibly be the perfectcar, no issues whatsoever.

 

Never had an issue with my 01' except for the seatbelt retractors.

 

Agreed, M3 is perfect !