I am interested in '98 sedan M3 or E46 328I . I am unclear on the exact and specific differences of the M3 vs the E46 328I sedan.

I anyone can give me some insight, would be most appreciative. I want to spend about 10K, and want to lean toward a mechanically reliable vehicle as a nice 2nd car.

Ideally looking for silver exterior on black.

thank you very much.

if you're interested in reliability, i'd go for the e46. The 36 m3 has a ''more tuned'' motor and therefore it needs more maintenance. now with that said, i have seen e36 m3s with well over 200,000 miles on them...

now if you consider performance...e36 all the way...the e36 is lighter and has more power...and has several other performace parts that you wouldnt find on a normal e46.

i might give the fuel economy nod to the e46...though they are pretty close.

it really all comes down to what you will use the car for...if you want to have fun with its superior performance...i'd go for the m3...if you want an arguably better looking car and just a daily driver...e46.

thanks...so am if i want the E46 sedan, do i search for the E46 328I
then? The different models BMW has manufactured is dazzling....

thanks again

if you're interested in reliability, i'd go for the e46. The 36 m3 has a ''more tuned'' motor and therefore it needs more maintenance. now with that said, i have seen e36 m3s with well over 200,000 miles on them...

now if you consider performance...e36 all the way...the e36 is lighter and has more power...and has several other performace parts that you wouldnt find on a normal e46.

i might give the fuel economy nod to the e46...though they are pretty close.

it really all comes down to what you will use the car for...if you want to have fun with its superior performance...i'd go for the m3...if you want an arguably better looking car and just a daily driver...e46.
I highly doubt that is the case. The engine itself will run fine and just as reliable as the e46. It's what leads to engine failure that will cost you for maintenance.