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"Used BMW M3 Overview And How To Buy At The Best Price!"
In our opinion, the BMW M3 is simply the premier 4-seater sport coupe or convertible on the road today. When it comes to performance, handling and communication between vehicle and driver, this vehicle is truly in another class.
The "M" indicates that this vehicle comes from BMW's Motorsports performance division. What they do is take a given vehicle (in this case a 3-Series) and tweak an already impressive engine to increase output, upgrade the suspension to get even more agility in the handling, add more powerful brakes and a specialized limited-slip rear differential, and then toss in some additional sporty design elements (both exterior and interior).
The most recent M3 generation was introduced for the 2008 model year. Offered in coupe, sedan and hardtop convertible body styles, there is only one trim level. Powering each is a 4.0 liter V8 engine that produces a prodigious 414 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It's mated with either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 7-speed automated-clutch manual gearbox with paddle shifters.
All M3 models are very well equipped and standard features also include luxury items such as leather upholstery, power sport seats, heated seats, xenon headlamps and a 10-speaker audio system. Used M3 models can also be found with optional features such as 19 inch wheels, BMW's iDrive navigation system, M Sport personalized performance settings and satellite radio.
The previous M3 generation was produced for the 2001 through 2006 models years (there was no 2007 M3) and was offered in either coupe or convertible body styles, again with only one trim level. Under the hood of these M3 models is a 3.2-liter incline six cylinder engine that pumped out 333 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission was standard while some used M3 models can be found with the optional 6-speed SMG (manual sequential gearbox) that became available beginning with the 2002 model.
This BMW M3 generation was also outfitted with a multitude of uplevel features, including multi-adjustable sport seats, automatic climate control, 18 inch wheels, leather and cloth upholstery, rain-sensing wipers, one-touch power windows, automatic headlights, heated power mirrors, keyless entry, a CD player and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Standard features on the convertible also included power seat adjustments and full leather upholstery.
Used BMW M3 models from these years can also be found with optional features such as navigation, a premium sound system, a sunroof, parking sensors, seat heaters, an alarm system and HID headlights.
For the most discriminating and performance-seeking car drivers, finding an available used M3 with the Competition Package (introduced in 2005 and available on the coupe only) could be the way to go. It adds some of the performance features of the European-market M3 CSL such as stiffer shocks and springs, a quicker steering ratio, upgraded brakes and stability control, and 19 inch forged wheels.
Overall, the M3 is simply a no-compromise performance car with magnificent handling and tremendous road grip while providing uncanny communication to the driver. It really is an "ultimate" driving experience.
So, yes. If you're in the upper-end price range, the BMW M3 makes an outstanding choice as a used car purchase.
How To Get The Best Price On A Pre-Owned BMW M3:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used M3 at the lowest price and even at wholesale.
ONE - Car Auctions:
You can go to Open-To-The-Public Auto Auctions in your own geographic area. While this may take more time and effort on your part, there are indeed some excellent deals (usually below wholesale) for those who shop these events.
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. This article details the best way to carry out this process. It's just amazing what happens to prices when you force dealers to fight for your sale.
