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2001 BMW M3 Consumer Discussions
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Buying a Used 3-Series
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [shipo]
That makes sense.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fedlawman]
I'm thinking plenty of oil can make its way through the system before everything gets all hotted up; I checked maybe ten minutes into the drive, long enough to allow anything heading downstream to make it to the end, but not long enough for everything in the system to burn off.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [shipo]
I'm actually surprised you found any. I wouldn't think any oil could make it that far back through the chain. Whatever the headers don't crisp, I would think the heat all the way down the chain (and the cats and muffler) would catch/vaporize anything left.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [shipo]
heh...I would have thought you'd start a fire ;)
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fedlawman]
Funny thing, in all of the years I've been looking at old cars for friends and such, this is the first time I've ever actually seen a tail pipe with any significant oil in it.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [shipo]
The old napkin in the tailpipe trick!
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [Mr_Shiftright]
To underscore your point... My son has been looking for a used car and had settled on a mid to late 1990s Audi 90/A4 2.8 Quattro 5-Speed; the first car we drove was a late production Audi 90 with only 90,000 miles on it and in very nice shape. A few dogs with fleas later we drove a nearly cherry looking A4 a year or three newer than the 90 and ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [airshowshelly]
"all new cars are the same, but each used car is different".....so the value is very much pinned to the condition, service records and owner history. Once you know THOSE things, then the question of value is easier to research. That's why getting a pre-sale inspection is important. But at least drive the car first. Even if you aren't a mechanic, you can often tell if some very important components aren't ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [airshowshelly]
it appears to be in good shape As always, I strongly recommend a pre-purchase inspection performed by a good BMW tech. Once you know the true condition of the car you can begin to discuss price.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
Am looking at a 2001 330i convertible with just under 50k on it....it appears to be in good shape - just under $16K price tag....is it a keeper?
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [nyccarguy]
Hey NYC, nice to hear from you. Thanks for asking! I've been lurking...not much to contribute to the forums I guess. These threads all seem to be going in circles lately, just new people jumping in and asking the same old questions. Everything's great though. My M is still going strong. BMW really needs to introduce the FWD 1-Series so we can get some lively discussions going again!
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fedlawman]
hey fedlawman! Where have you been? Everything OK?
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [yelnats25]
I don't think 0.9% financing makes up for the $30,000+ difference in price between a new 328i and a 10 year-old 330i. And to answer the original question, I'd personally choose the E46 over the E36.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
with the current intrest rates. Why don't you just step un and get a new 3 series. i got 0.9% financing. New 3 is much nice in general and much prettier.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [platinummotors]
I think posting URLs to dealerships is against the membership rules?? Anyway, with a handle like that, you should WORK for this outfit. Or maybe... you already do!!! ;)
BMW M3 Maintenance and Repair
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Re: reseting the ecu after oil change [gmonkies]
Does anyone knows how to reset the ecu for my 2001 m3 after my oil change? I remember reading somewhere that I can manually reset without needing a device. But I can't find that post now. Any suggestions will e greatly appreciated. 1. Key in 0 or off position. 2. Press and hold odometer button and turn key to 1 or acc. position. 3. Keep button pressed until any of the ... Read More
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reseting the ecu after oil change
Does anyone knows how to reset the ecu for my 2001 m3 after my oil change? I remember reading somewhere that I can manually reset without needing a device. But I can't find that post now. Any suggestions will e greatly appreciated. BTW, does anyone know a website that I can find out bmw club event in southern california? Thanks!
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Re: 2002 - 2003 M3 Reliability? [fedlawman]
Wow, I never realized I can ruffle so much feathers with my believe based on the info from magazine report. I was only trying to give a fellow BMW enthusiast a point of view based solely on the 1/4 mile time as one of many measures. But I will entertain the comments and continue with this debate one more time. My recollection was that when Road and Track magazine introduced the ... Read More
BMW History and Engine Technology
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Catching up...
Sorry gang, Mrs. Shipo is working in Hong Kong this week and so in addition to picking up her half of the duties with the kids, I've had some pretty significant deliverables due this week. As such, I haven't had any time for recreational clicking. ;-) brightness04 "The 3.2 M3 engine is the only high output engine (i.e. not a long stroke engine designed for torque) with more than 3 liter ... Read More
Buying a Used 3-Series
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330ci vs e36 m3 Review
Was just reading a review of a 2001 m3 and saw this quote comparing the old one (e36)and 330ci. Thought i should post it...from edmunds.com reviews. "When the last BMW M3 was sold in North America (from 1995 to 1999), it was an emasculated version of the car available across the Atlantic. While Europeans were ripping about in 321-horsepower M3s, we made do with choked 240-horse variants. Sure, they were great-handling ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [da
I had a 325ci that i traded for a s2000.. i really wanted the M Roaster/Coupe but i coudln't afford to make the jump... i picked up a used s2k for a few grand less than what i sold my 325ci for the s2k, m roaddsters/coupes, m3.. real sport/performance cars imo
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
I used to own a 2001 330i, 5 sp, with sport & premium package (basically 330ci with 2 extra doors). At the end of 2004, I traded it for 1999 E36/8 M Coupe (basically, M36 M3 in a modified Z3 Coupe body). If you're looking for performace, go with M3. If you're looking for more luxury, go with 330ci.
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///M > 330ci
performance hands down i would say E36; M3: -heavier steering -LSD (limited slip diff) -a good clutch, not a "self adjusting" garbage clutch like the 330ci -does NOT have the CDV like the 330(clutch delay valve.. also garbage) -M3 is faster for smoothness/luxury.. 330ci edit: i'had a 2001 330xi automatic, 2002 325ci stickshift, and my cousin used to have a e36 M3 so i do know what i am talking about ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [quattroporte12]
Hey guys thanks alot for your comments and support!It really does help me :) Well here are my priorities: performance!!! But my problem is that will i have to sacrifice performance for reliability and maintanance? I mean the m3 is a performance car and Im wondering which car will be cheaper for repairs? Lets say i get both cars with 50,000 miles, which will be more expensive to repair? is it ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [div2]
A newer generation or a car = newer technology and engineering. Period. Why would BMW redesign a car and put the same old technology and engineering into it??? The m3 MAY be harder to repair, because it is MORE likley to be driven hard then the 330ci, and ordering parts involves WAITING, which can be an inconvenience. 330ci is a newer, all around better car. ;) ;) ;)
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [quattroporte12]
the parts in the new one were much better than the old generation's parts, which means the parts in the 330 are probably as good or better than the ones in the old generation m3 because of the new technology Interesting. Which E46 parts are better? And in what way? What "new technology" are you referring to? Double VANOS? i would say that the m3 is going to be more expensive ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
Would a chip(add more power) lower the life of the engine such as the supercharger does? would a turbo lower the life of an engine as well? A chip-actually an ECU reflash for OBD II cars-will not affect engine longevity to on a normally aspirated car. A turbo or S/C is more likely to shorten engine life due to the increased loads placed on the engine. A lot depends on the ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
Wouldnt the m3 have better handling or better tranny or brakes then the 330ci? Yes, the handling and braking of the E36 M3 is better. It is also less "idiot proof" than the 330i; you have to know what you are doing in order to extract the best performance from it. I mean arent the mechanical parts of the m3 made to handle more power then the 330ci if I put ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
The m3 is made to handle more power, but, you have to remember that it is a generation older than the 330ci, which means when the 3 series was redesigned, the parts in the new one were much better than the old generation's parts, which means the parts in the 330 are probably as good or better than the ones in the old generation m3 because of the new technology. I ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
Would a chip(add more power) lower the life of the engine such as the supercharger does? would a turbo lower the life of an engine as well?
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [quattroporte12]
Oh ok thank you very much for your opinions, its taking a lead on me, so far 330ci sounds like a better buy, anymore comments will be very appreciated! Wouldnt the m3 have better handling or better tranny or brakes then the 330ci? I mean arent the mechanical parts of the m3 made to handle more power then the 330ci if I put on lets say a chip or turbo?? im ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [div2]
I have not driven the E36 M3, i know only what i have read and observed. in MY opinion, i would go with the 330ci. ;)
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
I think the 330 is the better buy. There's no reason why an used M car should cost so much--historically they are not particulary good at holding their value, asking prices notwithstanding. And an old BMW out of warranty makes a person nervous anyway. If you could find a certified 330, maybe a 2002 and up, that would be the way to go.
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [quattroporte12]
Interesting observations. How many E36 M3s have you driven? What about E46 330is?
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
I would also expect that the M3 has been flogged harder than the 330. People don't generally buy M3s unless they expect to drive them hard, or else why buy an M at all?
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
I think that you need to drive both and make your own decision. An E36 M3 offers a more visceral and involving driving experience, but don't take my word for it-similar comments were made by Car and Driver, Car, BMW Car, and Roundel, just to name a few. Since an E36 will cost less you might well have more money available for performance upgrades. On the other hand, while I don't ... Read More
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Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [fdg07]
THE 330ci BY FAR!!! It is a generation ahead, which means you get much netter looks, and as far as the performance goes, the 330ci is a VERY peppy car with performance very similar to the previouis generation m3 (whenever a new generation model comes out, it always has improved performance, so the newer 330ci may be equal to the older m3). Dont just go for the older car because its ... Read More
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What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each)
Which of these is better buy, 1999 M3 2dr or 2001 330ci? I have seen that a used 1999 m3 can cost as much as nearly a 2002 or 2003 BMW 330ci. Thats pretty interesting despite that fact that the M3 is a super car. Id like to know which one is the better buy and why? I am looking for acceleration, handling, and overall performance. Which do you think will ... Read More
2007 BMW M3 (E92)
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Re: Ques. re: Leasing [nyccarguy]
Im going to lease 2006 M3 (a.s.a.p) with silver grey metallic, cold weather pack, xenon lights, nav, harman-sound,19" rims, SMG box. *MSRP total is $67,145.00 thats paying full MSRP with out Illinois tax.I need 17,000 miles per year, I've tried 15,000 miles and I'm always over by 2,000 to 3,000 miles. I believe i can get the M3 for $65,000. **this will be my 3rd bmw lease, Ihave leased 2001 and ... Read More
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jmaroun
If I were you, I'd wait until the second model year. Those teething problems in the aforementioned post were due to the semi dry-sump oiling system which utilized one conventional, high capacity oil pump and a scavenger pump which recycled the oil back onto the internals of the engine. This new M3 won't have that system on it. I can't remember off hand, but I'm sure this will be a single ... Read More
BMW M3 Maintenance and Repair
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Re: won't go above 4000 RPM [jgoldstone]
Hi, YES I STILL HAVE THE PROBLEM My name is Clinton Redman and I have a 2001 E46 M3. I have had the car for 4 yrs from 28000km to 131 000km. I was away for 6 weeks on business. The car was parked at the airport, undercover. When I returned and floored it after 20 minutes, the problem first occurred. The car has been back to BMW 3 times and ... Read More
Audi S4 vs BMW M3
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Consumer Reports Facts
After I sat here for a few days and read posts from BMW lovers claiming that Consumer Reports bashed the S4 and praised the M3, I decided to find out the real truth for myself. I forked over $6 for a Consumer Reports New Car Preview 2006 at the grocery store today and I'm going to summarize what the magazine said. Just a note, I didn't include every single comparison, but ... Read More
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Re: Want to know positives/negatives of S4 and M3 [m3_r1]
OK let's have a fact-based discussion. Firstly, which consumer report are you talking about? Go to Consumer Reports.org , and look up the BMW 3-series and Audi A4 reports. Granted, the Audi has atrocious reliability through 2001 (it is that reputation which hurts its resale value now ... ) but has shown consistent improvement since the new shape was introduced in 2002. Indeed, in 2003 it received only excellent and very ... Read More
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Re: Want to know positives/negatives of S4 and M3 [rjlaero]
The truth must really hurt about the Audi S4 being inferior to the M3. If you read all of messages on this site you will see that the statements are supported by facts and not biased propaganda. I went to Kelly Blue Book to check the trade in values for the M3 and the S4 and this is what they said: 2001 BMW M3 in excellent condition with 100,000 mi $20,375 ... Read More
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Re: S4 Vs M3 [stealth4]
You passed a over weight BMW 760 with a speed limiter of 130 and you think you are fast? My 2001 M3 will teach you some manners if you ever try that stunt with me. As for the chip you installed, a Dinan Supercharged 01 M3 will make you wish you stayed in bed that day.
BMW M3 Maintenance and Repair
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Re: BMW M3 Owners: Problems & Solutions [KarenS]
I have a 2001 M3 coupe with 25,000 miles and it is time to replace the rear Continental ContiSportContact rear tires (255/40ZR18). The fronts look like they will last a couple thousand more miles. Tire Rack has them at an attractive price - $139 each - at least compared to the Michelins and Bridgestones. The wear specs shown for the Contis are the lowest at 160 AA for the rear, while ... Read More
2007 BMW M3 (E92)
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2007 M3 and used M3's
I traded my 2003 M3 in Sept for a 2004 and discovered one week later that most of the 2002 and 2003 M3's were recalled to replace the connecting rods. If you remember there was some problems with engines blowing up and the problem was discovered as bad connecting rods. the problem is that the entire engine has to be taken apart and its a full uninterupted days work. Be careful ... Read More
BMW M3 Maintenance and Repair
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BMW Update for M3 Coupe/Convertible with S54 Engines
I'm with BMW of North America, LLC (BMW NA). BMW NA is conducting a service action for S54 engines in E46 M3 Coupe/Convertible produced from February 12, 2001 and May 22, 2003. We are in the process of mailing notification letters to affected customers. Our ongoing quality testing revealed that the connecting rod bearings installed in certain M3 Coupe/Convertible with S54 engines were not manufactured to BMW quality standards. As a ... Read More
Audi S4 vs BMW M3
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M3 Reliability
The M3 now has a 6 year 100,000 warranty on the engine. When they initially came out in 2001 there were a small amount of engines that blew up, BMW changed the oil to 5W60 weight to correct the problem. I have not heard of any problems on the 2002 or 2003 models. The 3 series is a very reliable car, I owned a 2001 330cic that I put 32,000 miles ... Read More
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