Used 2002 BMW M3 Coupe Consumer Reviews
Used M3 for sale
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Awesome Performance. Expensive to Maintain.
richpsu, 06/02/2011
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I wanted an e46 M3 or e39 M5 since they were introduced. Finally bought '02 M3 MT coupe in 2010. WOW, what a machine! Perfectly balanced, high-revving and powerful engine (love the exhaust note), great in the corners, stops on a dime. Other cars, including the M5, may be faster but this one is just a blast to drive every day. If you're accustomed to owning non-M BMWs, be prepared to spend 3X or more per year to maintain this vehicle. If that's not a problem, then you're going to love this car - it is a true performer! I understand why Edmunds says this will be one of their favorites of all time. I also understand why none of the editors bought it after the long-term test :)
The Ultime Driving Machine!
mbatista911, 09/19/2013
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Finally got to buy a 2002 SMG M3 Interlagos Metallic Blue Coupe, what a car! Just have it for two month now, got it with 109,500 on it, and had put it over 1,000 miles already, the only thing I did was change the throttle body sensor and change the oil, everything was about U$375.00 in an aftermarket BMW shop ( don't dare to go to the dealer, they will charge you U$160.00 just to read your car with the computer) so the EML and Engine service soon light went away! Yes it can be a litter expensive to maintenance, but the car won't be breaking every week or turning EML or engine service soon lights on, Is a daily driving car,with no problems!
MMMMM Good!
ttocsffej, 03/01/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
My M3 is Imola Red with the Red/Black interior. It has all options including the nav system and SMG II sequential manual gearbox which is great! The "automatic" mode is a godsend in stop and go traffic. I didn't buy this car for fuel efficiency, which is a good thing. The best I've averaged on the hwy was about 21...and I've already seen some 15 mpg "in town" tanks. As such, the 16.5 gallon tank empties FAR too quickly, with fill ups as often as 250 miles.
'02 BMW M3
mike, 11/04/2006
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Awesome car to drive... absolutely love it!!! The SMG gearbox is the way to go especially if you live where there is lots of traffic.
BMW stands for: " Bring My Wallet !"
JimH from Tampa Fla, 07/19/2010
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I'm a working Joe, military guy, car enthusiast. I've had faster cars and slower cars, but I like BMWs the best. This car is a blast. I got my steel Grey/cinnamon m3,6-sp manual, lease turn-in; 26,000 miles, in 2005. It now has 106,000 miles on it and has cost me over $9300.00 in repairs and maintenance (including 4- sets of tires thus far) over and above my car payments. It's 2010 now, so for 5 years--that's pretty expensive! My m3 got a "new motor" sometime in its 1st owner's life because of the main bearing cap recall. The motor/trans has been flawless! All the complaints that folks have documented are valid for mine. Call me crazy, I still love my m3. It's one gorgeous sports/gt car.
Buy it if you can afford the Maintanence
Phil , 08/10/2007
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Such an awesome car, especially in Laguna Seca Blue. Handling is superb and for the performance a 19-22 overall MPG is pretty good. LOVE LOVE the car. It turns heads everywhere and gets compliments on the color at least once a week. However, the car has been to the shop more than 20X since I bought it. Everything has gone wrong with this car. The biggest problems were the CAT failed ($2000) and also the rear subframe cracked ($1700). The interior is also cheap and the tranny doesn't seem to fit the car, long strokes, clunky, and is not smooth. But that engine and stance makes it worth it... I think. :)
Think twice M3
DB01, 05/05/2003
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
fun car to dirve but lots of problems. Trans and power train was in the shope 5 times.
M3 has few peers
lear60, 12/29/2003
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very well-built and reliable car. Loads of fun to drive. Suspension is tight yet forgiving. Highly recommend SMG and Harmon Kardon.
outstanding
Doc, 12/25/2004
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Pure performance not just speed, the best quality miles going to work or anywhere, it is daily fun all over, without sacrificing comfort, safety and practicality
daves review
dave clements, 01/27/2005
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
if this was any other car than an m3, i would have got a different car. the problems i've had with it have been frustrating. no mechanical problems just everything else from gas pedal sticking to exhaust hanger to power window and molding
It's great new, but what about after 50k?
used M3, 11/02/2006
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got mine used w/ 49k mi on it. Would not buy brand new - not worth 55k+ (w/options). The car is very well-balanced in terms of power, handling, comfort, and luxury (mine is loaded - heated seats, nav, park sensors, etc.). Don't worry about all this rod bearing talk - it's a RECALL! (ie. get it done for free) and you wont have to worry because it will have new warranty (motor ONLY). The disappointment is the trans/differential. Gearbox is inconsistent - sometimes it's fine but othertimes it grinds from 1-2 at slow speeds. The diff is noticably clunky w/excessive lash-feels like it will fail. Maybe the newer car owners don't feel it but after the car hits 50k be aware. The warranty ends.
It's all good!
Achnonen, 11/08/2003
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Scare your wife. Scare your friends. Scare the guy next to you at the light in his C06. This car is frightfully fun to drive! My mother may never come to visit us again.
smg m3
peter falco, 06/21/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Considered buying a new Porsche 911. Had some nice cars. M3 is much faster and handles better than my 1992 911 C2. Much more practical and comfortable than new 911 with comparable performance. SMG a real delight. Been driving stick for 40yrs and been to driving schools. SMG probably able to outshift me 95% of the time.
M3 Rocks!
Bmwshifter, 06/23/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have 9200 miles today and I love the car! Always starts and turns heads. The 6 cylinder engine is a true reving machine. Handling for a sports car is good but could be improved. Ride is a little bouncy but what do you expect from a car that will keep up with a vette. Will buy another but will most likely have to wait a year again.
BEWARE OF SMG PROBLEM
oettinger, 05/01/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First time M3 buyer loved the car for about one week. After that it was pretty much a nightmare. The SMG starts to do funny thing like switch gear from the current gear to neutral, while in motion. The problem is due to bad hydraulic causing the gear to switch from gear to neutral. The car is still at the dealer WAITING for the part to arrive sometimes this week. I am just hoping this problem won't happened to anyone who is consider buying this car. This is a great car to drive but not it's reliability. If you are consider of buying one do think twice before purchase it. Dame should have got myself a C32 AMG instead.
Performance
2drstdcoupe, 12/03/2005
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased with performance in mind. Received one from Germany without a governor. Excellent car would highly recomend.
AMAZING CAR
Kleenex, 06/28/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have no complaints. This car is one of a kind. I have it in Phoenix Yellow Exterior and Black Interior. With SMG-II. Fits four people comfortably.
Unbelievable package - does it all!
gjbrauch, 05/06/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Probably the finest all-around package on the road. 911 performance at 2/3 the price, and carries four in style. Excellent fuel mileage is just icing on the cake. Unbelievably smooth and powerful engine, cruises quietly on the highway, but really comes alive in the twisties.
2002 BMW M3 F1
HUANG, 03/05/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Awesome Car. Spec for a street race car. F1 shifter takes a learning curve to get use to it. Reasonably priced compared to M-B CLK AMG, plus you get to play with the sequential shifter.
The Ultimate Driving Machine
CaliTom, 04/01/2009
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Moved to this car from a 1991 E30 M3 and very pleased with the GT car performance and agility of the 3rd generation of this vehicle. I thought the E36 was lacking in horsepower where the E46 does not. It's practically a race car in it's stock form and not much room for adding more in bolt on improvements. If you can't keep up on the maintenance on this car yourself look to spend a lot at the dealer or private shop. If you want the sexy glamor of a 911 buy one of those, if you want to carry four passengers and walk around a 911 buy this. Suggest getting a rare color other wise it just looks like another 3 series, mine is in Laguna Seca Blue and I get tons of complements on the color...
Best M3 yet
cybertronic, 07/24/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had all 3 generations or M3's, and they keep getting better every generation. Excellent car!
Best "pound-for-pound" car on the planet
HRD CLSR, 08/28/2007
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Let me start by stating that I have owned this car for quite some time and still have trouble wiping the smile off my face when I drive it!! This is my 2nd M3. My first was a 97 estorel blue 5 speed. Although it was a wonderful car, it is a Honda Civic in every comparison except handling compared to current. I have never driven a car with such a wide power band. If you are anything above idle, you are flying. The car has amazing "pull" in every gear. Where I live in Fl we have a nice mix of city and highway driving which I enjoy daily. There is no playing field where this car is shy or timid.
Fun Car
Fun Car, 11/06/2007
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car. Gets around 25 mpg on the freeway! Only reliability issues have been the window trim, ignition modules & other minor things. 100,000 miles and still going strong!
The absolute best car out there
jimC, 10/04/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I took delivery of my M3 at the performance center and could not be more pleased with the well trained professional people there. Driving M3's on the track and the delivery process was fantastic. This car has everything I could hope for, 1st class design, awesome power, and it does everything with typical BMW style. My M3 is still relatively new to me, but I get a thrill everytime I drive it.
powerhouse that seats 5
iamderek, 12/25/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I see comparisons between 911's and z06's for a car that can seat 5 (very tightly) and can beat any Porche save the turbo and gt2, is built solid, and hauls butt. This is a sports car that isn't really a sports car ie. 2 seats that can hang with some of the best 2 seaters for lots less. If you want style, brute force, and luxury, this is the car to get.
M3 review
samuel, 11/22/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
fantastic car. i had a great time driving it. i would rather have one of these than a ferrari.
Great overall balance for a sports coupe
SDHenry, 08/22/2003
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is easily one of the best car out there if you want some luxury, 4-seater and a hell of a performance car. The Porsche 996 may even be a bit faster around the corners but it doesn't seat 4. The interior of the M3 is nicer than the 996. The exterior is much much nicer looking than the 996 with the possible exception of a GT3. I had the car for almost 2 years and I have yet to have even one minor defect that required me to go back to the service center.
Finally got my M3
tommyk, 02/04/2010
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I sold my 2006 G35 6mt coupe and got an 02 M3. Wow, night and day as far as performance! Yea, the deck rattles from the bass and the front tweeters seem to be blown and the pass side window trim was sagging. But its a $55000 plus car I stole for $15000 and other than the few inexpensive problems its my favorite car ever! So fast, smells german inside, the paint is amazing, the looks, the sounds, the power and yes, even the gas mileage is out of this world. I hope it stays this great! I put 89000 on my G and never one time in the shop. That I will miss and hope my new bemmer does just as well. Dont buy a ragged out one, if they took care of it, it will take care of you. M3 for Life!!!
Totally awesome
jcoffie, 05/02/2005
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got the silver 6-speed manual and this car is a total blast. Best car I've driven. Massive power and torque at every gear. Have even started the car in 2nd gear. Handling is awesome and even grips wet roads. 60 mph cornering an exit, yeh baby!! This bad boy does not even slip. way to go DSC!!!! Worth every penny cause you get what you paid for. Car looks damn good too. If you dont want to do any serious driving, this ride is not for you; get a 325!!
Street legal race car!
darkside80, 01/12/2009
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased my 2002 M3 used and it has been fantastic to drive!! Came with the SMG tranny and its a blast to have in the city. Very reliable and the handling characteristics are unbelievable. The 19" wheels are a must have. Currently looking for a convertible model.
Know What You're Getting
Rakete, 12/08/2005
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Before you buy, be sure to research the service histories of these cars. Model year 2002 had a series of engine recalls that are warranty items (bearing service), but necessary fixes. Be sure they've been done and ask dealer to provide service history to prove it. If buying used, I do not recommend this model year to be purchased from a non-BMW dealer or private owner unless VIN proof can be provided that the recall service has been completed. Engine failure, while rare, is catostrophic. That said, I purchased mine from a BMW dealer with all service documentation and have had nothing but miles and smiles of glee!
Everyday Sports Car
sytyguy, 02/09/2009
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought used at 35k mi, now have 48k mi. I drive my M3 daily mostly city on the weekdays and occasional highway on the weekends. Since then I've had to replace a battery, driver side mirror slightly discolored on the edge and when it's really cold the passenger side door doesn't unlock on the first try. Besides that the car has been very reliable, even after being to a couple of weekend track events. The only casualties being the tires, brakes and fuel. Great track car that you won't feel guilty driving everyday. Service is expensive, quoted $2k for Inspection II at the dealer, but did myself with $500 in parts. Inspection II is every 35k mi or so.
m3
joe c, 04/26/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
after tax it hit 60k. however i feel its the best car for the $ in the world. or maybe just the best car. the car has smg transmission which is formula 1 style shifting. awesome!!! good looks and great feel.
Wolf in Sheeps Clothing?
hardlymoving, 05/07/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fast, incredible handling, great brakes, can operate in all weather conditions. Disappointed with lack of standard features when compared with lesser priced cars (i.e. CD player, sunroof, all leather interior, black only colored interior, Xenon lights, power seats, metallic paint, dual trip computer and floor mats). Not good in slow traffic conditions. Shifting from 2nd gear to 3rd can be difficult ... sometimes slips into 5th gear. Stick shift can sometimes be a little rough. Doors are a little too heavy ... really have to push to open them from the inside.
Very good
West, 10/19/2009
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is one of the best cars on the planet! I used to have a supra turbo '97 but this BMW kicks its backside. With amazing handling on the track and outstanding acceleration, all in one daily driving car.
Me and My M3
RJEB, 11/22/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My silver 2002 six-speed M3 makes me happy. I didn't know how to drive a stick-shift before I bought this car but the 333hp was all the incentive i needed to learn quickly. This car looks and handles great. Everytime i take the M3 out it gets more attention than almost any other car on the road. This car is so fast and so smooth it is unbelievable. Sunny days, winding country roads, sunroof open, a good CD...its all i need. If you are thinking about buying an M3 - just get one...
Love my M3
t3knophile, 05/26/2005
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love my M3. Upgraded suspension, lowered 1.5", and installed 19" ZCP wheels (forged BBS).
Love the SMG
Andreas, 06/27/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car does it all and more: - Daily commuter - Baby transporter - Occassional track day - Incredible performance, beating both the 911 and c32amg
M3 Dream
seasnake, 01/17/2006
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The current M3 is a dream for a performance car enthusiast. With few exceptions, it will bury the competition with always blistering accelleration and it will stop in a heartbeat. Handling is second to none, as might be expected with a chassis and mechanics tuned for the Nurburgring. Where else can you buy a world class, track-ready sport coupe that will also seat 4 comfortably - with luggage. Fit, finish and quality of materials is second to none. BMW - form does follow function.
4 months review w/SMG
hkfooey, 05/22/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 4 months of driving my M3 with SMG, I can say that I "finally" get used to the SMG control. Just take times to figure how it works. I think that I was able to find the setting I like best (there are a total of 11 choices). Read about the previous comments on SMG problem, hopes it will not happen to me! :) Was looking at the Boxster S.. but was happy got the M3 instead.
02 Steel Grey/Imola Red Coupe 6 Spd
nwd, 07/24/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fabulous car. Fast mover and quick stopper. Grips wonderfully and handles predictably, but it is still a quite comfortable ride partly due to very comfy seats. The engine revs astonishingly quick and has awed chipped S4 and Vette owners. Even at $60k I think it is a good deal and allows me to carry clients/friends in the back seat. Personal favorite BMW of all time in terms of looks (as opposed to questionable upcoming releases). I can't wait to track it this fall...
2002 M3 SMG
matrixone, 06/16/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Exceptional acceleration and handling; the ride is what one would expect from the sport-tuned suspension. The SMG seems to work well in LA freeway traffic or on the open road. Styling is understated, subtly sporty, and belies the fact that this is one ferocious muscle car. Current supply/demand situation means paying premium over MSRP.
What a fun car
mmm, 04/25/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is amazing. The SMG transmission is great. With this option you get the best of both worlds. The paddle shifters work great. The car performs great as a commuter and it kicks ass when you let it fly.
bmw M3
MikesBMWm3, 08/07/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the bmw M3 is a great car i have owned mine now four three weeks...and i have nothing but excellent things to say about this car...and the SMG 11 is great
Best Sports Car For the Price
FastWhite, 01/29/2003
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is hands down the best sports car for the money. Nothing comes close. This is the complete package. Styling, power, handling, and quality. If you are in the market for a $50K sports car look no further...because nothing compares.
BMW is the Ultimate Driving machine.
Stevenson Fong, 06/03/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is great if you want a sporty and luxurist car to drive. Price is a bit high, but once you get to know the sales people at BMW and drive a M3, you will be sold. I know I was...
M3 outperforms my Porsche
John G., 04/26/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 2002 M3 outperforms anything on the road in its price class. The performance and handling are outstanding. The fun-to-drive rating is a solid 10. A tremendous value for the money and excellent fit and finish throughout.
Hail to the KING!
IceManJ, 05/10/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Took out a S2000, WRX, Supra Turbo, C32, Camaros, Mustangs, and much more. Its a beast. You'll love it!
Worth the wait
EXT, 02/14/2003
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Extremely fast and fun to drive at this price range (although not cheap) the best combination of value - luxury, power, handling, and investment.
fast as a bitch
car90, 03/03/2002
2002 BMW M3 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this is the fastest car for it's price range, it's smooth, comfortable and looks amazing
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