2004 M3 vs. 530

[consequential]

Hello all,

I'm trying to make what seems to be a very difficult decision between purchasing a 2004 M3 or a 2004 530i. Seeing as how the M3 is obviously an extreme sports car yet offers comfort and luxury where as the 530i is the a solid choice when it comes to pure luxury with some sportiness, I'd like to ask all of you who might know, how does the M3 compare to the 530i in every day driving? Is the M3 so sporty that you start regretting it for everyday city driving?

It's important to note that I would get the M3 with the SMG option so I'm making this comparison based on both cars being automatic as opposed to using the clutch.

Lastly, I am concerned about repairs. Specifically, a car such as the M3 means extreme performance and as such, I question the reliability down the road of the engine, transmission, suspension as well as all the other parts of a car that at some point fail and need to be repaired/replaced. Comparing the M3's reliability to that of the the 530i, I'd like to get your opinions as to whether or not there's even cause to make this comparison. In other words, are both cars based upon your experience excellent when it comes to repairs? Money aside, it's obviously expensive for repairs when owning either of these 2 cars (after the warranty is up) but what do you all think?

Thanks very much!

[dutchbmw]

If you have the money, get the M3!

[Ryan8624]

you dont have to worrie about repaires, the E46 M3 (new style) is very reliable, and if there is a problum warenty would cover it, i would recomend the M3, it wouldnt be bad at all driving it in rush hour, switch the SMG into auto mode and its just like the 530i there is no clutch pedal on the SMG, but if you even considered it that says you are interested in performance, the 530i will never some coles to the abilitys of a M3, you may later regret getting the 530i becuas its just not as much fun. go to www.dtmpower.net or www.bimmerforums.com and ask some owners, they know better then anyone eles, good luck woth your pick, and i recomed the M3.

[Mohegan1]

while there is no doubt the performance is ideal with the M3, I would recommend you seriously think through what you really want out of the car. If you are looking to get a commuter car with some pizazz, the 5 series is a good choice. If you are looking for a performance car first,obviously the M3 is the choice.

If you truly are a city commuter, over the long term and in my opinion, the 5 series is a better choice, especially if you are driving it to the city everyday. The traffic, stop-n-go, potholes, etc. will wear thin on the M3 suspension and you might regret the ride comfort under those circumstances. It sounds like ride quality might be more prevalent in your life. Envision having both cars for 3 months, experiencing all the benefits of both...and then think which one would fit your needs better after that.

It is tough to recommend against an M3, but it is not built or designed to be a commuter car.