Is this a crazy idea?

[Terri Kennedy]

Originally Posted by Josh (PA)

I didn't even look at that particular car too closely, it was just an example of the age/mileage/price ratio that was available.

Good!

The qualities e46 M3c offers seems to fit Tom's range of needs very well. From what I understand the 2002+ cars are pretty reliable too.

My non-M E46 (09/2002 build) has been quite solid. OTOH, didn't the E46 M3 engines tend to blow up? I seem to recall BMW blamed it on a series of unfortunate manufacturing tolerances and extended the warranty.

[Nick M3]

They had a collection of defective main bearings that made it into production. S54s that haven't blown up by now probably won't.

[Sharp11]

Here's a really nice white ZHP vert from 05 - it's got just over 50 k on it and it looks really clean:

No, it's not an M3 vert, but it's in some ways, a better balanced package (lighter too).

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail...5&aff=national

[Sharp11]

Look at the condition of this one, an 02 330i vert with a sport package and 63k on the clock - they're only asking 15,900.

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail...5&aff=national

[wdc330i]

Originally Posted by TD

I've considered going that route. I still might.

A very good option.

[John V]

I'd take a ZHP 'vert over an M3 'vert anyday. With no roof you will have unabated aural access to the M3's tailpipe noise.

[Mr. The Edge]

Originally Posted by John V

I'd take a ZHP 'vert over an M3 'vert anyday.

+1

[lupinsea]

I admit I haven't read the whole thread. . . mostly the first page and random comments here or there so if the conversation has moved on, disregard the following.

I was really excited when the Solstice / Sky hit the market back when. But the more I learned about them the less I liked them. They still have some sexy styling and the 260 hp turbo charged engine makes them scoot nicely.

But the absolute deal killer for me is the soft top operation and trunk space.

The top because it's just a freak'n stupid design. And the trunk space because you'd ideally like to take just enough luggage with you for a weekend getaway.

To fold down the top: You need to stop the car. Get out. Open the rear hinged clam-shell deck cover. Remove half the stuff in the trunk. Then fold up the top. Then get back in the car.

And when the top is stowed it gobbles up half of the miniscule trunk space. And by miniscule we're talking half the volumne of a Miata's trunk.


In comparison to this, with the new NC Miata just pop the single central latch and throw the top back over your shoulder. Edmunds.com timed it. . . 3.55 second to put down. And that's seated, with your seatbelt on. And base don my experience with my NB, you can do it while driving up to 25 mph. It makes going top less so much faster and easier that you can do it between stop lights. Putting the top up takes longer, 4.5 seconds, and you have to reach over your shoulder.

The Miata's trunk is just big enough for a weekend getaway for two. And not one bit bigger. But it's at least usable. For my PCH road trip several years ago I had all my gear stuffed in the trunk and that included a tent, sleeping bag, clothing, and some other knicknacks.

Oh, and the Solstice transmission and shifter are more clunky than the Miata.

And it's 400 lb. heavier.

I guess, in other words, unless you REALLY need the power, I'd pick the Miata anyday (yes yes, I know I'm a bit of a fanboi for the car).

Go and drive both cars, and really work them over, playing with stuff.

That said, it's hard to imagine you'd go for a Miata OR Solstice/Sky.

[Terri Kennedy]

Originally Posted by lupinsea

And the trunk space because you'd ideally like to take just enough luggage with you for a weekend getaway.

It depends on how much luggage discomfort you can tolerate in exchange for the fun of driving the car you want. I've gone to the country (150+ miles one way) for a long weekend with a girlfriend, and all of our luggage was in the passenger footwell. It helps that she's also a car nut and doesn't pack like she's getting ready for the siege of Troy.

I also drove cross-country with the car stuffed to the gills:

Go and drive both cars, and really work them over, playing with stuff.

Definitely the best idea.