RE: Subframe Reinforcments: Of course I asked before buying the car. But for cream puff, ultra low mile cars like this that will not see track time or abusive driving, EAG (and others I've spoken to) do not recommend proactive subframe reinforcement. The subframe was inspected before sale and is fine, and it is recommended that the subframe be inspected at every oil change and ONLY reinforced if there is degradation/damage at one of these inspections.
I'm pretty sure the cracks are from abusing the car, my friend had to scrap the shell on my old E46 estate from the cracks in it, but I wasn't really surprised with the amount of clutch dumps and learning to drift I did in the poor thing. Driving fast doesn't crack the shell.
Nah, they all need reinforcement. Especially m3's. Vince bar is reasonably serious undertaking, but seems to be the end all be all without taking any interior space or causing rust.
That's all great, except you generally can't see the cracks without dropping the subframe, at which point you might as well just reinforce it. BTW- I have a 120,000 mile E46 M3 that I've put 80,000 miles on and haven't reinforced yet with no visible cracks, I just realize it's optimal to address pro-actively.
No offense dude but that’s incomplete to the point of being a load of shit. There was a technical campaign from bmw in 2008ish to fill a cavity in the subframe with expanding foam resin to essentially create a sandwich structure reinforcement for the subframe attach points. Obviously this should’ve been done on the car and can be checked by removing the trunk liner and looking for the injection hole. Additionally, you can’t just inspect the subframe mounting points at each oil change. The subframe bushings cover any cracks to the point they’re only visible once propagated a few inches to be visible beyond the subframe bushings. I’ve had numerous M cars from this era over the past 18 years and unfortunately my e46 m3 was the worst. The car was absolutely beautiful in LSB with 6mt and comp wheels but was let down by a myriad of issues that were common on the e46. The e92M despite looking worse and being heavier is the car the e46 always wanted to be.
@@deancostello14 no necessarily unfortunately. The cracks are simply fatigue. Fatigue is accelerated with hard use but in the end without reinforcement all e46 subframes will fail.
I had purchased a 2001 M3 Coupe new and then replaced it with a 2005 M3 Coupe with Competition Package and can tell you first hand that there wasn’t a night and day difference with it. Even the quicker steering ratio was very subtle and if I remember correctly BMW had softened the front suspension and stiffened the rear to make the car more neutral but either way they were both amazing to drive
@@cwx8 I know they changed the suspension for sure on all 2005 from 2004, but I’m sure there were other changes along the years as well as I know, for example, that they added a strut tower bar mid way through 2002 I believe. Such great cars, I love the way BMW used to sweat the details to make the best drivers cars unlike their product nowadays
@@jameswillard1 yeah there are definitely manufacturing changes in 04. They are just screwed together better if that makes sense. Couldn't tell ya exactly what it is.
Same here. Ive owned both. I sold the ZCP as the premium was such a waste of money. Really, the only good thing about it was the rack , which still didnt feel as good as a junk yard Z3 rack for 100.00.
Matt, about the shift feel, the fix is not an aftermarket short shifter, but tightening up the linkage between the shift lever and the transmission itself. I have an E30 but BMW's are all fundamentally the same. The shift carrier where the pivot ball of the lever sits is mounted with floppy rubber bushings, even with brand new parts it will always feel sloppy. The selector rod connecting the bottom of the shift lever to the transmission is also a flimsy piece that adds play to the shift action. You need 3 things to make your shifts feel incredible 1. Poly rear carrier bushing 2. Delrin front carrier bushings 3. Dual shear selector rod "DSSR" (Google BMW DSSR and stock BMW Selector rod and compare, it's simple but incredibly effective.) I bought mine from garagistic but many options are out there. If you do these 3 mods it'll cost you a couple hundred bucks and the difference will be night and day from stock. Congrats on the car, love your videos!!
Just picked up a convertible e46 M3 Manual. I will never let it go. Wanted a Slick Top, but a convertible will do just fine. Love these cars and they still quick enough to have fun in.
I bought my Z4M Coupe for many of the same reasons you stated; essentially that era of BMW had their heads on straighter when it came to building the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’. I am not sure anything like the S54 or the cars they bolted it into will ever come along again at that accessibility level.
Z4M Coupe is a better car than the E46 M3. I owned both for a while. Sold the M3 and bought the second Z4 M coupe (now I have a higher mile modified car and a low mile bone stock car). Z4 M Coupe is Much stiffer, CSL steering rack, with a better shifter.
I also bought a z4m coupe last year it’s great . Swapped the suspension to coil overs which made a massive difference. engine is a masterpiece.I live in Scotland just north of Edinburgh.we all need to enjoy these cars while we can . Best era of bmw.
I can say, I was fortunate enough (completely by accident of course) to buy a 2005 M3 in 2014, and my value has just about doubled. My plan is to hopefully never sell it. Enjoy Matt! Also loving the podcast as of late, you've had some excellent guests. Keep up the great work.
@@nickg3235 dope! Sit on it for a few years and they will be worth a pretty penny . I got mine with 82k miles one of my uncles lost his job and I took over payments back then I got lucky
@@m3izzy6 what do these typically sell for, and how much do you think Matt's car ran? I'm very interested in picking one up. I recently bought an Acura TL, which is another car I've always admired. Definitely not disappointed.
I'm a GM guy and owned over 60 cars. Currently have a 2011 cts-v coupe 700 hp and on a whim I bought a 06 330i with 220k miles for 2,800 and it had a ton of issues but between RUclips and fcp euro I've gotten it straightened out and fell in love with it. I've put 6k miles on it in 4 months. I'm converted🥰
I’ve been a bmw tech for over ten years and was at a dealer during the subframe recall that everyone here is warning about. Honestly in the several hundred inspections I never saw a car that failed inspection and our dealer who was the largest in Colorado at the time maybe saw 5 cars that qualified for repair. I doubt Matt will turn this car into a track toy or see the mileage that would cause the failures that would require repair.
@@jdabusiness5337 go talk to a service manager about open positions. Ask how to get qualified for the position. My route was UTI - BMW STEP and it was a great pathway for me. Expensive tuition, debatably worth it. You get out what you put in.
Congrats man! Welcome to the Bimmer club! E46 is so rad, part of why I have my M2 Competition is for the "Modern E46 M3" vibes. I'm also turning 40 this coming year. Ooof, we're getting old!
@@doctorbashir3497 I have a 370z, as I’m into two seat sport cars, but am very much considering the m2 when I unload the Z. I live in Ohio, and having two cars is kind of a pain in the ass
@@XanielMarino I likely wouldn’t do it without an extended warranty...otherwise I would continue juggling two rides. I don’t want a sport sedan, but the m2 is so well regarded that I’m considering it!
We're about the same age (I'm turning 39 this year) and I totally understand where you're coming from. I got my license in the late 90s/early 2Ks and remember those seeing those special cars such as the M3, 911, vette etc...while i was driving my tempo/taurus lol. There is a lot of nostalgia in driving those cars nowadays for folks that are in their late 30s/early 40s. I myself recently acquired an '03 996 C4S (w/40k) and can't stop smiling. I really think that special cars from the 2000s are going to appreciate because they seem to be last of a dying breed.
Hi Matt!, as an e46 M owner I love to see these cars getting picked up in "investment grade" condition, as you mentioned in the video the factory shifter is long and not very responsive like the rest of the car. BMW does make a oem+ "performance" shifter lever that is in my opinion a worth while upgrade to the chassis matched with a ZHP shift knob.
Timeless/classic car. It's looks still hold up today. Owned 2 (titanium silver mettalic and imola red) and wish I never got rid of them. Especially the Imola red.
I think this is the best generation of the M3. Mine was totaled a few years back (got hit at a red light) and I'm seriously considering adding one back to the garage as I start to think about the "forever cars" that I want to secure while they're still easily found.
Yup. I lost mine a few years back, and replaced it with w204 c63. And the E46 is still by far the best car I've owned. I am thinking of shopping for another e46
I must have done something right. I purchased my Titanium Silver Metallic E46 M3 just a couple months after my 40th birthday. Then, Joe Rogan bought one, and now Matt’s doing the same thing I did as well. Hell yeah brother!
THIS! SMG is fun, it gets a bad rap because in stock form it is a bit clunky, and back then it was cool to dog on paddle shifters. The CSL tune fixing the downshifting is key to the system not feeling antiquated. In 2022 and with a CSL tune, the trans holds its own and is far less "unrefined" as everyone would have you believe. Clicking off a redline/flatfoot S6 1/2/3 on an onramp is still impressive and engaging.
@@goodnaruk and everyone always says “ooooh” the hydro unit is expensive to fix and I’m always like “my car originally was 60k in 2006, why are you buying cars you can’t afford?”
@@blanchbacker agreed! I’m taking it easy on mine right now cause the springs need replaced and right now I’m waiting on my carbon airbox, CSL air filter and carbon velocity stacks
I agree Matt, the E46 M3 is a timeless, special car with one of the most rewarding driving experiences. I miss my M3, it was hands down the best car Ive ever owned
That's a nice car. I could live in 2005 for the rest of my life. Everything had improved dramatically since the late 90s. Cars had gotten good. Evo, sti, m3, s4
Go back one year and you can add the be r32 on the list 😈 I know it’s the slowest of those 4 but it’s also more rare and has the best stock exhaust note
Hell yeah Matt! Happy for you. Much more interesting and personal than "RUclipsr buys another supercar" as is customary. You have about 16 years on me, but as a kid obsessed with cars, this was a childhood defining whip. Dads rolling in these and E39 M5's to little league were badass dudes (CT, you know the vibe). Don't price us out when our time comes :,)
What a great e46 M3! I enjoyed the really thoughtful and detailed discussion of why this car and why now. A lot the same reasons why I ended up picking up an AP1 S2K about a year ago. Still a few more months to go before my 40th, but I'm glad I didn't wait!
I swear the S2k, the e46m3 and the 997 GT3 are like spiritually linked, or brothers from different mothers. Sorta like three peak cars done in the same formula at different price points
Bought my 2005 E46 in 2008. I will NEVER sell it!!! Still burns no oil. Same amount of power as when new. Interior is great still. Constant feeling of quality and max driver engagement.
Congratulations on the purchase. I went the exact opposite direction as you about 2 years ago, and acquired a very high mileage example with an SMG transmission that needed work. It's so wonderful to different grades of this vehicle being enjoyed for so many purposes. This definitely was peak BMW M3
Love it. You can drive it spiritedly on a sunny day and be totally happy with the car. A lot of people out there sadly still focus on numbers way too much and if you are a track only type then fine but in the real world having a car that can handle being driven hard but instead driving it pleasantly is just awesome.
The E46 is all about “The Handle” what BMW was known for. All about HP & Torque today. It’s a beauty and you are fortunate to find one in such condition, enjoy it bro. +10 on the Titanium & Competition rims.
Happy 40th Matt! Thanks for the years of entertaining car content. You've always been my favourite car journalist. Cheers to many more years and enjoy the m3!
I’m here in the uk, owned my manual e46 m3 in silver grey for 8yrs now, no sunroof. Csl wheels and lowered a bit, she goes in to the body shop in 4 weeks for 1 new front drivers wing and to do the rear arch due to some rust. You have to keep on top of things, but she is a joy still to drive, and gets the looks.
I love my E46! make sure you get the rear subframe mount reinforcement done if it hasn't been already, would be a real bummer to find out the hard way later. definitlely a "forever" car, they haven't made cars like this for a while now
Just traded an e46M3 for an R8. The M3 is an outstanding car and a current classic, I am going to miss that one. It deserves 100% of the praise it gets. In comparison, the R8 is nuts in different ways and will be an absolute future classic as well. It just gets way to much attention, the M always flew under the radar (unless you were an enthusiast).
That is the best exhaust ever made for the S54. Every other one is either far too raspy or too 'peaky' even in person. Such an excellent car, good purchase Matt.
My 04 e46 (330ci zhp) has over 325k on the chassis and still running like a champ. Owned it since day 1. Granted with the subframe reinforcement done at around 120k, and a LOT in preventative maint, but chassis-wise and interior quality it has been simply amazing. Been thru a number of other cars, tuned and not... S4, couple WRXs, M235i etc. The e46 will remain my forever car. Fully modded except for FI, absolutely LOVE it.
Even though I’m used to turbo cars and this naturally aspirated engine might not fit my liking, I reckon the E46 is the best M3 ever. It’s so sad that BMW have lost point design wise lately.
Hey man. Awesome choice in mu opinion. Got mine for almost 5 years now. Not a fan of tuning. Silver, manual, no sun roof, fully loaded, stock basically until recently.. i did one thing, one thing that in my opinion everybody should do, while possible: change final drive to BMW MOTORSPORT 4.1 ratio. That thing not only got rid of that crazy long gearing (took me 4 years to realize how pointless that is), but more importantly it made it even more responsive, even faster and more nature in every day life. I remember having goose bumps first day i drove it after diff rebuild. Its simply amazing. If you can get it, sure buy it and have it at least ready on the shelf for when the time is right. Its a must!
Congrats. Everyone screams LSB, but I think this is the best color combo. Love the interior. Very clean. That said, I hate EAG. They have clean cars, but they are destroying the market for enthusiasts with their pricing. They were a huge factor, imo, in E30 price escalation.
That doesn’t really make sense. One seller can’t create a market out of thin air. They charge what they charge, but people are willing to pay. Markets are just as much about buyers as they are about sellers. Also why do we have to pretend that people are no longer enthusiast once they’ve made money?
@@tunesquadauto Bc most of them, most of the time, are buying these cars to add to a collection; taking them off the street to collect dust and return on investment. If you are an enthusiast, you believe these cars should be enjoyed, not hoarded in collections. Ultimately, it is in the best interest of the auto industry to have great cars become affordable for the next generation. That is how you build an enthusiast base, that is how you build brand loyalty. But now, everything is a collectible, and people are spending money like never before. EAG doesn't cater to enthusiasts, they cater to moneyed collectors. And, sorry, one seller can create a market out of thin air if they control enough of the supply. Look at the diamond industry. And, I am sorry to say, EAG controls enough of the market for CLEAN older BMWs that they CAN (and do) have influence on market pricing. They routinely set high water marks for sale prices, and that raises the price across the market.
Absolutely gorgeous example in a stunning color combination. This car is from a time machine. Congrats and happy belated birthday!!!!!!!! P.S. I totally bought a Fiesta ST per your recommendation and it fits the bill for a practical, fun daily driver. But for the weekend category (as Doug would put it), the M3 makes total sense. Definitely did not think you were speaking poorly of the M3 in that 2014 comparison vid.
@@gorillafacegwen9247 mine is on 90k plus miles but I service it as scheduled unlike a lot of owners. On another note the E46 M3 is timeless and wish I snapped one up when they were £5-10k cars over here
I also bought a Fiesta ST in 2015 based on what Matt and other automotive journalists had to say about it. It now has about 55k miles and I still love it. I had Mountune install a Quaife limited slip diff, larger inter cooler, catback exhaust and tune.
My daily is an 04 with a 6MT I acquired in 2009. Just crossed over 222,000 miles and still brings a smile to my face. So much so that the E92 M3 I got a few years ago (to replace this) sits in the garage more :)
Nice car! Bought one of these new and did the full Dinan treatment. Owned it for 5 years and once modified, it was a blast. They understeer a lot when stock, and it's way under-braked - to name a few issues. I then bought a new E92 M3 and did the same full Dinan package, and man - I liked it way better than the E46. Still have it to this day with that awesome S65 V-8.
Have had my ex+ condition 72,000 mile e46 for 8 years, put around 700 miles on it each year. A weekend toy, an absolute joy to drive, plus, it is the best looking M-car ever. Thank you BMW for making this car.
Congrats man, enjoy. I miss my E46 ZHP just about every day, even though I still have an E90. Crazy that a chassis designed some ~25yrs ago might be the pinnacle, but I don’t think anyone can honestly argue that the new stuff is “better.”
Aside from steering input/feel and being a bit larger than previous models they're basically better in every way. That's coming from someone that currently owns an E36 M3, Single turbo E90 335i, Supercharged E92 M3 and 2021 M340i. I love my E36 more than anything but I can't pretend like my M340i doesn't do everything better.
@@rodgazinya It's all subjective. You will have people on both sides of the argument. The hard-core BMW enthusiasts will be on the side of "the past was better". Personally I'm on that side, but I can see the argument for "newer is better".
The project I didn't complete was that M3 motor into an E30, it had to be sold. I have just handed a manual E46 325I coupe to my son, drove it for 3 years, revved its head off, now with 220k klms... Still strong, as you say Matt, great size, great chassis and simply a delight to go out for a late night blast, windows down, ears open. Mines now a 2014 Touring..nice too. I'm biased, I've had 10 beemers...still hanker for a 911.. Just nice to frive, you feel everything and they will take constant quick driving.
this was really cool to see because i just bought an e46 m3 as my daily driver. I got mine for $14k, completely rust free underbody with the big 3 done to it and a few small mods. Everything was done at a reputable shop and it came with full service records to prove everything was done. It wasnt the best m3 i could afford, I still had room left over in my budget. But I got it for a killer deal from my best friend. She also parts out BMWs with her boyfriend and they specialise in E46s, so I'll always have support if anything happens to it and I need help.
@@dmoneydmo hell yeah good find bud! My friend sold me hers because she found a clean running driving Phoenix yellow m3 for $5500!! Its got a bad SMG pump so 6th gear exits the chat sometimes. But it's a very solid car otherwise, she lucked out with that one
Welcome to the club Matt. I have owned two 2003 E46 M3 Manual Coupes. A 10,000 mile Laguna Seca Blue, 6 speed, Slick Top, Coupe with a black interior which unfortunately was stolen otherwise it would be worth a fortune now. I replaced it with another 2003, a Mystic Blue 6 speed manual coupe with black interior. Congrats on getting the car from EAG. I had the pleasure of meeting Eric Keller from EAG in August of last year at Monterey Car Week, just weeks before his death. Great guy, we lost a good one. Enjoy the E46
Congrats! I've owned my 03 M3 for 10 years and I also have a m54b30 swapped e46 XI Touring! All DIY'd with immense help from the Enthusiast community. Can't say enough for the NAM3FORUM and e46fanatics.
I've owned a '03 E46 ///M3 (carbon black, manual shift) since '06. I put a UUC short throw shifter, suspension, and the comp wheels on her. Those are the only mods and it has 60K miles. I recommend you looking into the UUC shifter....I LOVE IT!!
I love how a well-off man says that an early 2000's car is as best he can afford given the low mileage. Matt seems really humble and that's cool. I love the car. I loved it in Need for Speed Most Wanted. And it is till this day, the only M BMW car I would love to own. Timeless in every way and a great car to enjoy FRONT ENGINE rear wheel drive layout.
Congratulation for your purchase..... I agree with you 100%.... keep it stock and no mods...for me this is the most desirable BMW M of all times. Enjoy it !! 👌
Great buy! And a beautiful example, I truly believe that the e46 m3 will blow up in price further down the line as it is the last naturally aspirated inline 6 3 series from M. We will never see something like this again from bmw.
@@e46mc93 thats probably true, though i think as always it also comes down to good maintenance. i know of V8s that have run well over 200 000 and the only thing really ever done was change of rod bearings. as for the cars, i think i do love the look and size of the E46 M3 more but i like the V8 as an engine more.
@@th3orist Lots of N/A V8’s in the world. I almost bought an e60 M5 but decided with e46 M3 for style / size and the S54 is totally unique. I didn’t do the rod bearings on mine until about 220,000km no manufacturer recall.
I feel you , I have an e46 m3 , I’ve had f80 m3 also e92 m3 . they are all unique , for me I’m keeping my e46 sometimes less is more . The e92 felt abit bigger/dull at low speeds but some translate this to better daily drivability as it’s abit smoother. the e46 is abit less refined feeling and let’s more sound through the car. if I lived in the states with bigger roads/cheaper fuel I’d defo have the e92 m3. I don’t think any are ‘better’ just different you can’t lose either way. in the past I’ve owned dc2 type r , Mitsubishi vr4, sti’s, 911 turbo (borrowed) but turbo cars don’t interest me I was always chasing more power. the driving feel in the e46 is enough for me . it’s all relative . Hope that helps . 👍🏻 not sure what’s next for me as for road driving/fun factor I do love this car in the U.K. .
Everyone says i'm stupid for not wanting to sell my 2008 S5 N/A V8, 6 speed! Its sprint blue. Perfect interior spec all black with carbon fiber and alcantara / leather seats. Ive almost paid it off, but now I have a major repair to replace the original clutch and get an engine carbon clean. Car has 155k miles now, I got it at 80k. I absolutely love the way it looks, the way it drivers, the V8 sound, the stick shift experience... BUT IDIOTS would rather tell you "oh no thats a big cost for maintenance you might as well sell it or trade it for a new car" But that would cost me upwards of 20k plus for any newer models, plus having a car that gives you the same experience as my S5 when driving is hard to find. Most new sports cars and coupes now days all feel the same. They drive the same. They sound the same. They even look the same. I refuse to let people influence my decision when they dont even understand what makes a car fun to drive, and what makes it so damn special. Its only an S5, yet I still get many compliments. Because true GREAT designs never fade, just like this incredible M3.
I Completely agree on BMW going the wrong direction. Ugly and bulky and heavy and hideous giant grills. That older body style, size, and esthetic is excellent.
I think the biggest loss was going away from the goldilocks suspension which always had a bit of roll and the near complete loss of steering feel when they introduced EPS.
I know people freak out about the looks of e60/e90 but they still have all the classic driving characteristics (even a bit better) and hydraulic steering that made BMW so great. E90 got fatter than e46 but e60 weighs about the same as e39 bc more aluminum
@@Orcawhale1 Hard to rule that one out too, those were extremely good cars, also btw the E23 7 is in that list of cars mentioned, E32 belongs to the E36, E34 era. Reason why I believe the late 90s and 2000s was the hit is because you have everything, the quickest suv, quickest sedan, everything was quick, luxurious and safety was better than previously. BMWs motorcycles were good, racing history was spot on with LeMans in 99, them entering F1, Mclaren F1 winning Lemans in 96. One thing for sure is 80s-2010 was BMWs time. They’re still cool today but it’s on a straight decline.
Congratulations Sir! 1. On the birthday 2. On the M3 3. On the very very handsome Daytona on the rubber. (Edit: dang, i thought, the watch was a bdaygift) All the best to you and thanks, as always, for the video!
As an E46 M3 owner of many years, I'll never forget the SmokingTire episode where Matt was trying to say a Fiesta ST is more fun than an E46 M3 lol. There was speculation behind Matt being paid off by Ford to make that video, but after all these years, its nice to see Matt finally appreciate the E46 M3. Some might speculate Matt buying one now is because of the trendy'ness the E46 M3 has gotten in the last few years. Maybe that's true, maybe not, btu a part of me wishes Matt appreciated the car more because of the car, and less because of how popular its become...
From what i can recall, it wasn't so much model against model, but more used vs new. The only thing that's changed, is that E46 M3's have now suddenly become valuable enough, for people to take care of them.
the e92 m3 is MY personal favorite, looks wise, sound wise, interior wise, etc. but the size is what kind of annoys me, its pretty big for a 3 series . granted nowhere near as big as the f and g m3's but its definitely the best thing ever. my only regret when i had one is that it was 6mt . the dct trans is really so good , especially with a euro flash . the e92 was built around the dct so the 6mt isnt great without a lot of upgrades . the best thing i could imagine is a s65 e46 m3 , especially with a super charger that would be the absolute best .
Bravo, Matt! Enjoy your new M3. Longtime BMW owner here, since 2001. I wanted to get back to my original E46 feel and just picked up a 2017 M2 6MT. To me, this M2 is the modern version of your M3 E46 without going over the top in ridiculous technology and overweight extras. I’m loving every minute of it and know it’ll remain a true classic. Enjoy every minute of your new love. These BMWs are true drivers cars. Happy birthday!
Next videos 10 things I love about my e46 m3 10 things I hate about my e46 m3 Should I sell my e46 m3? Oh no, subframe issues with my e46 m3? Cost of owning an e46 m3 Why I sold my e46 m3 Why I regret selling my e46 m3 Should I buy an e46 m3 again?
The Dinan setup sounds so good and not so raspy! I bought an 03 SMG with about 55k miles and was at 172k before being totaled a few years ago. I absolutely loved it. Congratulations on your now rare find and yes EAG is the way to go for a collectors version, the best version 🔥👊🏽💯
Going through this video was hilarious. From you acknowledging you're an e46 m3 hater, to the part where you cant drive it beyond 7/10ths, to the part where you admit its an investment for resale value. I hereby name this car, the silver bandwagon
Nah, Its pretty honest on Matt's part. As for the bandwagon part, thats the smartest part of his purchase. People will want to hate saying why not get one years ago? Why now? The answer is that they were always cheap and easy to find. Like no big deal. You just grab whatever color your want. But if youre like Matt and putting together a collection, these lower mile perfect cars are going to be gone really soon. So if youre were ever thinking you might want an E46 M3, you should bought one by now. Plus BMW changed. We all assumed we'd just keep getting better and better drivers cars - either way, the cars the E46 M3 are gone. And he's right, that if you dont drift missile it, his version will be likely be worth more than he paid, so why not get a nice one? As for the 7/10th/s... Yeah he's wrong about that, but maybe that takes a little bit of driving that car before youre mashing it into the pavement and jumping crests. Like one good day of anger in the mountains. And maybe adding the comp package traction control? But he was pretty smart to buy it given whats happening in the market. Like he was almost forced to buy it now, before its too late... which kinds of sucks. But Matt's right.
Weight/length , higher seating position , more refined more sound deadening that’s about it really . some would call that ‘better quality’ also though . Also introduction of a way more capable ecu. (More electronics). It was defo an m car made for the states where fuel is cheaper and roads are bigger . The e46 m3 gtr with the v8 in racing also had some minor complaints about how fast it drank fuel but hey ‘this is is racing’ lol .
Be_A_Good_Little_Sheep 🐑 I had the f80 with the turbos too I can’t say I didn’t think it was amazing.’the best’ can’t be the same thing forever I guess . like classic ferraris/Ford race cars some of us would say damn they are way to raw for us lol.
Watched the entire video and can't say I agree more; which is why I bought a G42 M240i.. its the closest size to the old E92 M3 which is crazy. Cars like these just don't exist anymore. Enjoy the ride!
I had a 2003 model in Imola Red in South Africa, so much fun to drive around town and absolutely sublime on long drives...drove it from Johannesburg to Durban six times (746 mile roundtrip) and from Johannesburg to Cape Town (1738 mile roundtrip) four times...I still regret selling that car all these years later!
These and the E36 make so much more sense to me than an E30. I really only dig the E30 because of its looks, but if I ever buy a bimmer, I'll be damned if it doesn't have 6 cylinders in it.
I'd get a mint restored E30 with an S54 swap from the E46 M3. Shorter wheelbase and much less weight equals more nimble handling plus I love the vintage boxy design. The E46 is still great though, it is just so heavy
At last we see it! Welcome to the club sir! Got my 03 back in 2015 with 44k miles and its been excellent. Did all maintanance and common issues myself, pretty straight forward for mechanically savvy people. But now at 69k miles a crack had appeared on the rear right subframe mounting point. So currently its keeping my garage safe 😁. Gonna reinforced and refresh the rear this spring and I'll be back singing in the angeles forest 🍻
Nah - Zach's free to mod his car to his heart's content. As much as I love these, there are a dozen things you can do to make them better in any number of ways. Fitting up the suspension with poly bushings or replacing the right rubber bushings with ball joints can dramatically sharpen the handling. ZHP or Z4MC steering rack and an E34 coupler will sharpen the steering. Camber plates and some alignment changes will increase response and dial out understeer. Poly motor and trans mounts will increase NVH but sharpen shifter response and transform how the car responds to transitions. And there are many more where that came from. All things I've done to my E36 M3 that make it so much more fun to drive than a soft stock car. Zach's car may not be as nice, but it's probably both more fun and also the faster car.
I'm happy for you. I bought an e46 330ci almost 2 years ago and I love it (when I'm not working on it lmao), hope you enjoy your m3 as much as possible
To enhance your oem experience buy yourself a BlueBus Bluetooth interface. I have one in my 325iT and had one in my dads e39 m5 and the Bluetooth integration is amazing.
Exactly. I can vouch for EAG and Evan Keller et als work and establishment. They are the best in the nation hands down. I spent 2 years sourcing a 2012 ZCP E92 M3. Bought based on conversation and video he took for me on start up and walk around. Easiest purchase and top notch handling! Quality. Quality. Quality. Congrats to Matt for his beauty E46!!
Very nice. I did something similar, but at 50. Replaced my beast of a street legal race car with a 2013 V6 Mustang with performance package. 50/50 weight distribution, reasonable power, and a joy to drive at 7/10 on a twisty mountain road.
I’ve owned E36-46 & 90 M3s. E46 is the best balanced package of them all. I wish I had one now instead of my M140i. They’re worth good money now even in the UK.
Man that car is super nice. Congrats. Having DD mine for a few years it's looking a bit rough on the edges, but in the process of bringing it back somewhat. These are special cars to those who know.
I just ordered my G80 M3 manual for the same reasons. I think it will be the last of the high HP manual cars as well as last manual M3. End of an era. I plan on keeping it for many years. Can’t wait! Congrats on the E46, always was one of my favorite car designs.
RE: Subframe Reinforcments: Of course I asked before buying the car. But for cream puff, ultra low mile cars like this that will not see track time or abusive driving, EAG (and others I've spoken to) do not recommend proactive subframe reinforcement. The subframe was inspected before sale and is fine, and it is recommended that the subframe be inspected at every oil change and ONLY reinforced if there is degradation/damage at one of these inspections.
I'm pretty sure the cracks are from abusing the car, my friend had to scrap the shell on my old E46 estate from the cracks in it, but I wasn't really surprised with the amount of clutch dumps and learning to drift I did in the poor thing. Driving fast doesn't crack the shell.
Nah, they all need reinforcement. Especially m3's. Vince bar is reasonably serious undertaking, but seems to be the end all be all without taking any interior space or causing rust.
That's all great, except you generally can't see the cracks without dropping the subframe, at which point you might as well just reinforce it. BTW- I have a 120,000 mile E46 M3 that I've put 80,000 miles on and haven't reinforced yet with no visible cracks, I just realize it's optimal to address pro-actively.
No offense dude but that’s incomplete to the point of being a load of shit. There was a technical campaign from bmw in 2008ish to fill a cavity in the subframe with expanding foam resin to essentially create a sandwich structure reinforcement for the subframe attach points. Obviously this should’ve been done on the car and can be checked by removing the trunk liner and looking for the injection hole.
Additionally, you can’t just inspect the subframe mounting points at each oil change. The subframe bushings cover any cracks to the point they’re only visible once propagated a few inches to be visible beyond the subframe bushings.
I’ve had numerous M cars from this era over the past 18 years and unfortunately my e46 m3 was the worst. The car was absolutely beautiful in LSB with 6mt and comp wheels but was let down by a myriad of issues that were common on the e46.
The e92M despite looking worse and being heavier is the car the e46 always wanted to be.
@@deancostello14 no necessarily unfortunately. The cracks are simply fatigue. Fatigue is accelerated with hard use but in the end without reinforcement all e46 subframes will fail.
We're so glad you're enjoying it! Thank you for the opportunity to showcase an EAG preserved/serviced BMW.
OH baby
I also have an EAG E46 M3 and although it had more miles (70k) it was delivered incredibly minty fresh. You absolutely can’t go wrong with EAG.
I really appreciate this video AND the fact that EAG is out there helping to fulfill these automotive dreams :)
The M3 CSL is still the most impressive M3 I've ever driven. The intake noise alone is worth it.
I had purchased a 2001 M3 Coupe new and then replaced it with a 2005 M3 Coupe with Competition Package and can tell you first hand that there wasn’t a night and day difference with it. Even the quicker steering ratio was very subtle and if I remember correctly BMW had softened the front suspension and stiffened the rear to make the car more neutral but either way they were both amazing to drive
Something happens in 2004 as well. I've owned 4 E46s and the 2004s are just.. tighter. Nothing stated on the BMW end but something definitely changed
@@cwx8 I know they changed the suspension for sure on all 2005 from 2004, but I’m sure there were other changes along the years as well as I know, for example, that they added a strut tower bar mid way through 2002 I believe. Such great cars, I love the way BMW used to sweat the details to make the best drivers cars unlike their product nowadays
@@jameswillard1 yeah there are definitely manufacturing changes in 04. They are just screwed together better if that makes sense. Couldn't tell ya exactly what it is.
Same here. Ive owned both. I sold the ZCP as the premium was such a waste of money. Really, the only good thing about it was the rack , which still didnt feel as good as a junk yard Z3 rack for 100.00.
Wow
Matt, about the shift feel, the fix is not an aftermarket short shifter, but tightening up the linkage between the shift lever and the transmission itself. I have an E30 but BMW's are all fundamentally the same. The shift carrier where the pivot ball of the lever sits is mounted with floppy rubber bushings, even with brand new parts it will always feel sloppy. The selector rod connecting the bottom of the shift lever to the transmission is also a flimsy piece that adds play to the shift action.
You need 3 things to make your shifts feel incredible
1. Poly rear carrier bushing
2. Delrin front carrier bushings
3. Dual shear selector rod "DSSR" (Google BMW DSSR and stock BMW Selector rod and compare, it's simple but incredibly effective.)
I bought mine from garagistic but many options are out there. If you do these 3 mods it'll cost you a couple hundred bucks and the difference will be night and day from stock. Congrats on the car, love your videos!!
Just picked up a convertible e46 M3 Manual. I will never let it go. Wanted a Slick Top, but a convertible will do just fine. Love these cars and they still quick enough to have fun in.
I bought my Z4M Coupe for many of the same reasons you stated; essentially that era of BMW had their heads on straighter when it came to building the ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’. I am not sure anything like the S54 or the cars they bolted it into will ever come along again at that accessibility level.
Owned a Z4MC for almost 12 yrs. I know I will come to regret selling it.
Z4M Coupe is a better car than the E46 M3. I owned both for a while. Sold the M3 and bought the second Z4 M coupe (now I have a higher mile modified car and a low mile bone stock car). Z4 M Coupe is Much stiffer, CSL steering rack, with a better shifter.
I also bought a z4m coupe last year it’s great . Swapped the suspension to coil overs which made a massive difference. engine is a masterpiece.I live in Scotland just north of Edinburgh.we all need to enjoy these cars while we can . Best era of bmw.
@@ianwhyte5740 yes sir! I have KW3 on my modified car.
I can say, I was fortunate enough (completely by accident of course) to buy a 2005 M3 in 2014, and my value has just about doubled. My plan is to hopefully never sell it. Enjoy Matt! Also loving the podcast as of late, you've had some excellent guests. Keep up the great work.
How much did you pay for it? I got my 2004 m3 for about 12k back in 2015
@@m3izzy6 $14k with 93k mostly highway miles. Single owner, good friend of mine, came with all service records. I knew the car hadn't been abused
@@nickg3235 dope! Sit on it for a few years and they will be worth a pretty penny . I got mine with 82k miles one of my uncles lost his job and I took over payments back then I got lucky
@@m3izzy6 what do these typically sell for, and how much do you think Matt's car ran? I'm very interested in picking one up. I recently bought an Acura TL, which is another car I've always admired. Definitely not disappointed.
@@pitbull82 I sold my e46 m3 for 32k last year. Had 88k miles. Prices are going up. Get one while you can.
I'm a GM guy and owned over 60 cars. Currently have a 2011 cts-v coupe 700 hp and on a whim I bought a 06 330i with 220k miles for 2,800 and it had a ton of issues but between RUclips and fcp euro I've gotten it straightened out and fell in love with it. I've put 6k miles on it in 4 months. I'm converted🥰
I’ve been a bmw tech for over ten years and was at a dealer during the subframe recall that everyone here is warning about. Honestly in the several hundred inspections I never saw a car that failed inspection and our dealer who was the largest in Colorado at the time maybe saw 5 cars that qualified for repair. I doubt Matt will turn this car into a track toy or see the mileage that would cause the failures that would require repair.
Its the typical issue exploded by the internet as people who have the issue will shout out about it, but all those who are fine aren't going to be..
how do you land such a job? @Aaron dornbush
It's the cars getting pounded that broke.
Its mostly the people who pounded the shit out of theirs and never took care of them who mainly have the issue.
@@jdabusiness5337 go talk to a service manager about open positions. Ask how to get qualified for the position. My route was UTI - BMW STEP and it was a great pathway for me. Expensive tuition, debatably worth it. You get out what you put in.
Congrats man! Welcome to the Bimmer club! E46 is so rad, part of why I have my M2 Competition is for the "Modern E46 M3" vibes. I'm also turning 40 this coming year. Ooof, we're getting old!
I spent a weekend at the BMW performance center west. Drove the entire M line up in anger.
The M2 was by far my favorite
@@doctorbashir3497 I have a 370z, as I’m into two seat sport cars, but am very much considering the m2 when I unload the Z. I live in Ohio, and having two cars is kind of a pain in the ass
@@Jxc0122 if you can handle higher maintenance then do it for sure! There’s a reason the M2 is as loved as it is
40 isn’t old, I’m 71 and bought a 981 Spyder for my 70th. Still skiing and mountain biking but slowly…
@@XanielMarino I likely wouldn’t do it without an extended warranty...otherwise I would continue juggling two rides. I don’t want a sport sedan, but the m2 is so well regarded that I’m considering it!
We're about the same age (I'm turning 39 this year) and I totally understand where you're coming from. I got my license in the late 90s/early 2Ks and remember those seeing those special cars such as the M3, 911, vette etc...while i was driving my tempo/taurus lol. There is a lot of nostalgia in driving those cars nowadays for folks that are in their late 30s/early 40s. I myself recently acquired an '03 996 C4S (w/40k) and can't stop smiling. I really think that special cars from the 2000s are going to appreciate because they seem to be last of a dying breed.
Exact same situation and cars for me. I'm in the market for either an e46 m3 or a 966 911 turbo
Hi Matt!, as an e46 M owner I love to see these cars getting picked up in "investment grade" condition, as you mentioned in the video the factory shifter is long and not very responsive like the rest of the car. BMW does make a oem+ "performance" shifter lever that is in my opinion a worth while upgrade to the chassis matched with a ZHP shift knob.
Timeless/classic car. It's looks still hold up today. Owned 2 (titanium silver mettalic and imola red) and wish I never got rid of them. Especially the Imola red.
Imola red E46 M3 is and always will be such a good looking vehicle
you fool
I think this is the best generation of the M3. Mine was totaled a few years back (got hit at a red light) and I'm seriously considering adding one back to the garage as I start to think about the "forever cars" that I want to secure while they're still easily found.
Yup. I lost mine a few years back, and replaced it with w204 c63.
And the E46 is still by far the best car I've owned. I am thinking of shopping for another e46
try a new comp xdrive
Go for it brother!
I must have done something right. I purchased my Titanium Silver Metallic E46 M3 just a couple months after my 40th birthday. Then, Joe Rogan bought one, and now Matt’s doing the same thing I did as well. Hell yeah brother!
I love my M3, I was worried the SMG wouldn’t be up to snuff but the CSL shifting software makes the whole thing so fun whilst still feeling pretty raw
THIS! SMG is fun, it gets a bad rap because in stock form it is a bit clunky, and back then it was cool to dog on paddle shifters. The CSL tune fixing the downshifting is key to the system not feeling antiquated. In 2022 and with a CSL tune, the trans holds its own and is far less "unrefined" as everyone would have you believe. Clicking off a redline/flatfoot S6 1/2/3 on an onramp is still impressive and engaging.
@@goodnaruk and everyone always says “ooooh” the hydro unit is expensive to fix and I’m always like “my car originally was 60k in 2006, why are you buying cars you can’t afford?”
Yep, it shifts extremely fast when you have your foot down, very engaging
@@blanchbacker agreed! I’m taking it easy on mine right now cause the springs need replaced and right now I’m waiting on my carbon airbox, CSL air filter and carbon velocity stacks
I agree Matt, the E46 M3 is a timeless, special car with one of the most rewarding driving experiences. I miss my M3, it was hands down the best car Ive ever owned
That's a nice car. I could live in 2005 for the rest of my life. Everything had improved dramatically since the late 90s. Cars had gotten good. Evo, sti, m3, s4
Go back one year and you can add the be r32 on the list 😈 I know it’s the slowest of those 4 but it’s also more rare and has the best stock exhaust note
S2000 :)
997 GT3 RS was the highw watermark of cars, no point going past 2010
@@Avstract23 as a racing car, the r32 was the fastest of the list. literally won every race in group a when it came out
@@bruce_son im talking about the 2004 volkswagen r32
GORGEOUS INTERIOR & EXTERIOR!!! CONGRATS!
Hell yeah Matt! Happy for you. Much more interesting and personal than "RUclipsr buys another supercar" as is customary. You have about 16 years on me, but as a kid obsessed with cars, this was a childhood defining whip. Dads rolling in these and E39 M5's to little league were badass dudes (CT, you know the vibe). Don't price us out when our time comes :,)
bought my 03 facelift M3 3 years ago with 85k miles love every second of driving it. Enjoy your MINT E46 Matt !!
What a great e46 M3! I enjoyed the really thoughtful and detailed discussion of why this car and why now. A lot the same reasons why I ended up picking up an AP1 S2K about a year ago. Still a few more months to go before my 40th, but I'm glad I didn't wait!
I swear the S2k, the e46m3 and the 997 GT3 are like spiritually linked, or brothers from different mothers. Sorta like three peak cars done in the same formula at different price points
Bought my 2005 E46 in 2008. I will NEVER sell it!!! Still burns no oil. Same amount of power as when new. Interior is great still. Constant feeling of quality and max driver engagement.
Congratulations! What a great purchase, I have an E39 and I completely agree, the build quality of BMWs from this era is just unparalleled.
It's amazing how well that era was built and how badly BMW have let it go now.
E39 M5s sound awesome
Stunning mate and welcome to the club
Gorgeous E46 M3, anytime I see one it just makes the day better
My dad had one for years when I grew up. It was his daily. Lots of good memories of this thing
Congratulations on the purchase. I went the exact opposite direction as you about 2 years ago, and acquired a very high mileage example with an SMG transmission that needed work. It's so wonderful to different grades of this vehicle being enjoyed for so many purposes. This definitely was peak BMW M3
Thanks for helping e46 market
Love it. You can drive it spiritedly on a sunny day and be totally happy with the car. A lot of people out there sadly still focus on numbers way too much and if you are a track only type then fine but in the real world having a car that can handle being driven hard but instead driving it pleasantly is just awesome.
The E46 is all about “The Handle” what BMW was known for. All about HP & Torque today. It’s a beauty and you are fortunate to find one in such condition, enjoy it bro. +10 on the Titanium & Competition rims.
Happy 40th Matt! Thanks for the years of entertaining car content. You've always been my favourite car journalist.
Cheers to many more years and enjoy the m3!
I’m here in the uk, owned my manual e46 m3 in silver grey for 8yrs now, no sunroof. Csl wheels and lowered a bit, she goes in to the body shop in 4 weeks for 1 new front drivers wing and to do the rear arch due to some rust. You have to keep on top of things, but she is a joy still to drive, and gets the looks.
sounds better than any modern bmw, the NA inline-6 is such a defining bmw characteristic it's sad you simply cannot buy a new one these days.
The engine noise in the cabin is awesome but the exhaust note has always been horrible IMHO.
What a beautiful example. Congrats on the purchase!
I love my E46! make sure you get the rear subframe mount reinforcement done if it hasn't been already, would be a real bummer to find out the hard way later. definitlely a "forever" car, they haven't made cars like this for a while now
I believe it's not needed on 2005 models
@@Lucarocks92 All E46 models will need it no matter how they're driven. It happens to the 316i almost as much as any others.
Just traded an e46M3 for an R8. The M3 is an outstanding car and a current classic, I am going to miss that one. It deserves 100% of the praise it gets. In comparison, the R8 is nuts in different ways and will be an absolute future classic as well. It just gets way to much attention, the M always flew under the radar (unless you were an enthusiast).
That is the best exhaust ever made for the S54. Every other one is either far too raspy or too 'peaky' even in person. Such an excellent car, good purchase Matt.
When I hit 40, i picked up a Z4MC, all the same reasons and intentions. Zero regrets, all grins. That era for BMW was golden.
Congrats, Matt! The E46 M3 is an example of a fine balance between practicality and fun.
My 04 e46 (330ci zhp) has over 325k on the chassis and still running like a champ. Owned it since day 1. Granted with the subframe reinforcement done at around 120k, and a LOT in preventative maint, but chassis-wise and interior quality it has been simply amazing.
Been thru a number of other cars, tuned and not... S4, couple WRXs, M235i etc. The e46 will remain my forever car. Fully modded except for FI, absolutely LOVE it.
Even though I’m used to turbo cars and this naturally aspirated engine might not fit my liking, I reckon the E46 is the best M3 ever. It’s so sad that BMW have lost point design wise lately.
💯
Hey man. Awesome choice in mu opinion. Got mine for almost 5 years now. Not a fan of tuning. Silver, manual, no sun roof, fully loaded, stock basically until recently.. i did one thing, one thing that in my opinion everybody should do, while possible: change final drive to BMW MOTORSPORT 4.1 ratio. That thing not only got rid of that crazy long gearing (took me 4 years to realize how pointless that is), but more importantly it made it even more responsive, even faster and more nature in every day life. I remember having goose bumps first day i drove it after diff rebuild. Its simply amazing. If you can get it, sure buy it and have it at least ready on the shelf for when the time is right. Its a must!
Congrats. Everyone screams LSB, but I think this is the best color combo. Love the interior. Very clean. That said, I hate EAG. They have clean cars, but they are destroying the market for enthusiasts with their pricing. They were a huge factor, imo, in E30 price escalation.
Amen!
100% this.
That doesn’t really make sense. One seller can’t create a market out of thin air. They charge what they charge, but people are willing to pay. Markets are just as much about buyers as they are about sellers.
Also why do we have to pretend that people are no longer enthusiast once they’ve made money?
@@tunesquadauto Bc most of them, most of the time, are buying these cars to add to a collection; taking them off the street to collect dust and return on investment. If you are an enthusiast, you believe these cars should be enjoyed, not hoarded in collections. Ultimately, it is in the best interest of the auto industry to have great cars become affordable for the next generation. That is how you build an enthusiast base, that is how you build brand loyalty. But now, everything is a collectible, and people are spending money like never before. EAG doesn't cater to enthusiasts, they cater to moneyed collectors. And, sorry, one seller can create a market out of thin air if they control enough of the supply. Look at the diamond industry. And, I am sorry to say, EAG controls enough of the market for CLEAN older BMWs that they CAN (and do) have influence on market pricing. They routinely set high water marks for sale prices, and that raises the price across the market.
@@randyforce8455 you get it. Couldn't agree more. it sucks for the real enthusiasts
I graduated hs in 2003. My buddy bought a 2002 m3. I remember how stable and well built the e46 was. Bad ass ride!
Absolutely gorgeous example in a stunning color combination. This car is from a time machine. Congrats and happy belated birthday!!!!!!!!
P.S. I totally bought a Fiesta ST per your recommendation and it fits the bill for a practical, fun daily driver. But for the weekend category (as Doug would put it), the M3 makes total sense. Definitely did not think you were speaking poorly of the M3 in that 2014 comparison vid.
Eco booms. They won't last long. a 15k M3 is a dream.
As did I. Matt and Jonny L. both influenced my purchase. 2018 Orange Spice with the leather Recaros. I couldn't be happier!
I also bought a Fiesta ST because of Matt's videos, loved it! Sold it and miss it often.
@@gorillafacegwen9247 mine is on 90k plus miles but I service it as scheduled unlike a lot of owners. On another note the E46 M3 is timeless and wish I snapped one up when they were £5-10k cars over here
I also bought a Fiesta ST in 2015 based on what Matt and other automotive journalists had to say about it. It now has about 55k miles and I still love it. I had Mountune install a Quaife limited slip diff, larger inter cooler, catback exhaust and tune.
My daily is an 04 with a 6MT I acquired in 2009. Just crossed over 222,000 miles and still brings a smile to my face. So much so that the E92 M3 I got a few years ago (to replace this) sits in the garage more :)
Nice car! Bought one of these new and did the full Dinan treatment. Owned it for 5 years and once modified, it was a blast. They understeer a lot when stock, and it's way under-braked - to name a few issues. I then bought a new E92 M3 and did the same full Dinan package, and man - I liked it way better than the E46. Still have it to this day with that awesome S65 V-8.
E92 is the peak for the M3
Agreed. I’ve driven an E46m but the E90 was just a more appealing package overall.
Have had my ex+ condition 72,000 mile e46 for 8 years, put around 700 miles on it each year. A weekend toy, an absolute joy to drive, plus, it is the best looking M-car ever. Thank you BMW for making this car.
Stunning, and you got the 6 speed, soon to be a collectable.
That is in amazing condition well done Matt
Congrats man, enjoy. I miss my E46 ZHP just about every day, even though I still have an E90. Crazy that a chassis designed some ~25yrs ago might be the pinnacle, but I don’t think anyone can honestly argue that the new stuff is “better.”
Aside from steering input/feel and being a bit larger than previous models they're basically better in every way. That's coming from someone that currently owns an E36 M3, Single turbo E90 335i, Supercharged E92 M3 and 2021 M340i. I love my E36 more than anything but I can't pretend like my M340i doesn't do everything better.
@@rodgazinya It's all subjective. You will have people on both sides of the argument. The hard-core BMW enthusiasts will be on the side of "the past was better".
Personally I'm on that side, but I can see the argument for "newer is better".
@@rodgazinya Nice stable.
The project I didn't complete was that M3 motor into an E30, it had to be sold. I have just handed a manual E46 325I coupe to my son, drove it for 3 years, revved its head off, now with 220k klms... Still strong, as you say Matt, great size, great chassis and simply a delight to go out for a late night blast, windows down, ears open. Mines now a 2014 Touring..nice too. I'm biased, I've had 10 beemers...still hanker for a 911.. Just nice to frive, you feel everything and they will take constant quick driving.
this was really cool to see because i just bought an e46 m3 as my daily driver. I got mine for $14k, completely rust free underbody with the big 3 done to it and a few small mods. Everything was done at a reputable shop and it came with full service records to prove everything was done. It wasnt the best m3 i could afford, I still had room left over in my budget. But I got it for a killer deal from my best friend. She also parts out BMWs with her boyfriend and they specialise in E46s, so I'll always have support if anything happens to it and I need help.
Same just got mine in July for 14k
@@dmoneydmo hell yeah good find bud! My friend sold me hers because she found a clean running driving Phoenix yellow m3 for $5500!! Its got a bad SMG pump so 6th gear exits the chat sometimes. But it's a very solid car otherwise, she lucked out with that one
Welcome to the club Matt. I have owned two 2003 E46 M3 Manual Coupes. A 10,000 mile Laguna Seca Blue, 6 speed, Slick Top, Coupe with a black interior which unfortunately was stolen otherwise it would be worth a fortune now. I replaced it with another 2003, a Mystic Blue 6 speed manual coupe with black interior. Congrats on getting the car from EAG. I had the pleasure of meeting Eric Keller from EAG in August of last year at Monterey Car Week, just weeks before his death. Great guy, we lost a good one. Enjoy the E46
Amazing car - nice purchase. I used to drive my own M3 on those exact roads back in the day, life was never better! 👍
Congrats! I've owned my 03 M3 for 10 years and I also have a m54b30 swapped e46 XI Touring! All DIY'd with immense help from the Enthusiast community. Can't say enough for the NAM3FORUM and e46fanatics.
Congrats, Matt. What a beautiful e46. Though I'm personally an e92 fan, I can definitely appreciate all BMWs. I am a beemer guy lol. Nice one mate!!💪
I've owned a '03 E46 ///M3 (carbon black, manual shift) since '06. I put a UUC short throw shifter, suspension, and the comp wheels on her. Those are the only mods and it has 60K miles. I recommend you looking into the UUC shifter....I LOVE IT!!
I love how a well-off man says that an early 2000's car is as best he can afford given the low mileage. Matt seems really humble and that's cool. I love the car. I loved it in Need for Speed Most Wanted. And it is till this day, the only M BMW car I would love to own. Timeless in every way and a great car to enjoy FRONT ENGINE rear wheel drive layout.
trust me when i tell you, if you drove the’22 M3 Comp Xdrive, you’d want it over anything else!
But what about the front end of the G80 getting hit by the ugly stick?
Congratulation for your purchase..... I agree with you 100%.... keep it stock and no mods...for me this is the most desirable BMW M of all times. Enjoy it !! 👌
Great buy! And a beautiful example, I truly believe that the e46 m3 will blow up in price further down the line as it is the last naturally aspirated inline 6 3 series from M. We will never see something like this again from bmw.
Love my E46 M3. Can never sell the car, it’s so pure. Heavily modified mine as well, worth every penny.
i am always torn between E46 M3 and E92 M3, i feel both have their unique cool aspects that make one better than the other and vice versa.
S54 better to put high km on
@@e46mc93 thats probably true, though i think as always it also comes down to good maintenance. i know of V8s that have run well over 200 000 and the only thing really ever done was change of rod bearings.
as for the cars, i think i do love the look and size of the E46 M3 more but i like the V8 as an engine more.
@@th3orist Lots of N/A V8’s in the world. I almost bought an e60 M5 but decided with e46 M3 for style / size and the S54 is totally unique.
I didn’t do the rod bearings on mine until about 220,000km no manufacturer recall.
@@e46mc93 very nice
I feel you , I have an e46 m3 , I’ve had f80 m3 also e92 m3 . they are all unique , for me I’m keeping my e46 sometimes less is more . The e92 felt abit bigger/dull at low speeds but some translate this to better daily drivability as it’s abit smoother. the e46 is abit less refined feeling and let’s more sound through the car. if I lived in the states with bigger roads/cheaper fuel I’d defo have the e92 m3. I don’t think any are ‘better’ just different you can’t lose either way. in the past I’ve owned dc2 type r , Mitsubishi vr4, sti’s, 911 turbo (borrowed) but turbo cars don’t interest me I was always chasing more power. the driving feel in the e46 is enough for me . it’s all relative . Hope that helps . 👍🏻 not sure what’s next for me as for road driving/fun factor I do love this car in the U.K. .
Everyone says i'm stupid for not wanting to sell my 2008 S5 N/A V8, 6 speed! Its sprint blue. Perfect interior spec all black with carbon fiber and alcantara / leather seats. Ive almost paid it off, but now I have a major repair to replace the original clutch and get an engine carbon clean. Car has 155k miles now, I got it at 80k. I absolutely love the way it looks, the way it drivers, the V8 sound, the stick shift experience... BUT IDIOTS would rather tell you "oh no thats a big cost for maintenance you might as well sell it or trade it for a new car" But that would cost me upwards of 20k plus for any newer models, plus having a car that gives you the same experience as my S5 when driving is hard to find. Most new sports cars and coupes now days all feel the same. They drive the same. They sound the same. They even look the same. I refuse to let people influence my decision when they dont even understand what makes a car fun to drive, and what makes it so damn special. Its only an S5, yet I still get many compliments. Because true GREAT designs never fade, just like this incredible M3.
I Completely agree on BMW going the wrong direction. Ugly and bulky and heavy and hideous giant grills.
That older body style, size, and esthetic is excellent.
I think the biggest loss was going away from the goldilocks suspension which always had a bit of roll and the near complete loss of steering feel when they introduced EPS.
Great choice!!!!!!!! Awesome
E38 7, E39 M5, E52 Z8, E53 4.8is, E46 M3, E84 Z4M are the pinnacle of BMW.
Id argue, it was the 80s.
E24 M6, E26 M1, E28 M5, E30 M3, E32 750i.
I know people freak out about the looks of e60/e90 but they still have all the classic driving characteristics (even a bit better) and hydraulic steering that made BMW so great. E90 got fatter than e46 but e60 weighs about the same as e39 bc more aluminum
@@Orcawhale1 Hard to rule that one out too, those were extremely good cars, also btw the E23 7 is in that list of cars mentioned, E32 belongs to the E36, E34 era. Reason why I believe the late 90s and 2000s was the hit is because you have everything, the quickest suv, quickest sedan, everything was quick, luxurious and safety was better than previously. BMWs motorcycles were good, racing history was spot on with LeMans in 99, them entering F1, Mclaren F1 winning Lemans in 96. One thing for sure is 80s-2010 was BMWs time. They’re still cool today but it’s on a straight decline.
@@aidenp5768 Nah, E23 carrys to much of the 70s with it. E32 is mid 80s, so it's okay.
6 disc CD changer. I haven't changed the 6 CDs in my 2005 Boxster S in over 10 years. I feel you Matt. Awesome E 46.
Future classic for sure! These will keep going up especially for good examples like yours
Already classic IMO!
@@mrphil2159 you aren't wrong
Congratulations Sir!
1. On the birthday
2. On the M3
3. On the very very handsome Daytona on the rubber. (Edit: dang, i thought, the watch was a bdaygift)
All the best to you and thanks, as always, for the video!
As an E46 M3 owner of many years, I'll never forget the SmokingTire episode where Matt was trying to say a Fiesta ST is more fun than an E46 M3 lol. There was speculation behind Matt being paid off by Ford to make that video, but after all these years, its nice to see Matt finally appreciate the E46 M3. Some might speculate Matt buying one now is because of the trendy'ness the E46 M3 has gotten in the last few years. Maybe that's true, maybe not, btu a part of me wishes Matt appreciated the car more because of the car, and less because of how popular its become...
From what i can recall, it wasn't so much model against model, but more used vs new.
The only thing that's changed, is that E46 M3's have now suddenly become valuable enough, for people to take care of them.
Ive had my 02 since 2014 and I love it it’s been my dream car since i was a boy.
the e92 m3 is MY personal favorite, looks wise, sound wise, interior wise, etc. but the size is what kind of annoys me, its pretty big for a 3 series . granted nowhere near as big as the f and g m3's but its definitely the best thing ever. my only regret when i had one is that it was 6mt . the dct trans is really so good , especially with a euro flash . the e92 was built around the dct so the 6mt isnt great without a lot of upgrades .
the best thing i could imagine is a s65 e46 m3 , especially with a super charger that would be the absolute best .
Bravo, Matt! Enjoy your new M3. Longtime BMW owner here, since 2001. I wanted to get back to my original E46 feel and just picked up a 2017 M2 6MT. To me, this M2 is the modern version of your M3 E46 without going over the top in ridiculous technology and overweight extras. I’m loving every minute of it and know it’ll remain a true classic. Enjoy every minute of your new love. These BMWs are true drivers cars. Happy birthday!
Next videos
10 things I love about my e46 m3
10 things I hate about my e46 m3
Should I sell my e46 m3?
Oh no, subframe issues with my e46 m3?
Cost of owning an e46 m3
Why I sold my e46 m3
Why I regret selling my e46 m3
Should I buy an e46 m3 again?
😂
The Dinan setup sounds so good and not so raspy! I bought an 03 SMG with about 55k miles and was at 172k before being totaled a few years ago. I absolutely loved it. Congratulations on your now rare find and yes EAG is the way to go for a collectors version, the best version 🔥👊🏽💯
Going through this video was hilarious. From you acknowledging you're an e46 m3 hater, to the part where you cant drive it beyond 7/10ths, to the part where you admit its an investment for resale value. I hereby name this car, the silver bandwagon
Nah, Its pretty honest on Matt's part. As for the bandwagon part, thats the smartest part of his purchase. People will want to hate saying why not get one years ago? Why now? The answer is that they were always cheap and easy to find. Like no big deal. You just grab whatever color your want. But if youre like Matt and putting together a collection, these lower mile perfect cars are going to be gone really soon. So if youre were ever thinking you might want an E46 M3, you should bought one by now. Plus BMW changed. We all assumed we'd just keep getting better and better drivers cars - either way, the cars the E46 M3 are gone. And he's right, that if you dont drift missile it, his version will be likely be worth more than he paid, so why not get a nice one? As for the 7/10th/s... Yeah he's wrong about that, but maybe that takes a little bit of driving that car before youre mashing it into the pavement and jumping crests. Like one good day of anger in the mountains. And maybe adding the comp package traction control? But he was pretty smart to buy it given whats happening in the market. Like he was almost forced to buy it now, before its too late... which kinds of sucks. But Matt's right.
I have a 318ci e46. Best car they made, love it to bits.
How did the E92 M3 begin deviating from the “formula” that you mention?
Weight/length , higher seating position , more refined more sound deadening that’s about it really . some would call that ‘better quality’ also though . Also introduction of a way more capable ecu. (More electronics). It was defo an m car made for the states where fuel is cheaper and roads are bigger . The e46 m3 gtr with the v8 in racing also had some minor complaints about how fast it drank fuel but hey ‘this is is racing’ lol .
The seating position was the worst part. It handled great, sounded great, and felt like an m car. Same can’t be said when they added turbos.
Be_A_Good_Little_Sheep 🐑 I had the f80 with the turbos too I can’t say I didn’t think it was amazing.’the best’ can’t be the same thing forever I guess . like classic ferraris/Ford race cars some of us would say damn they are way to raw for us lol.
Watched the entire video and can't say I agree more; which is why I bought a G42 M240i.. its the closest size to the old E92 M3 which is crazy. Cars like these just don't exist anymore. Enjoy the ride!
I love these cars perfect for the canyons but the sound is a deal breaker for me
sound is addicting
Great taste in cars! I agree this is easily one of the favorite cars I’m not a bmw fan but you can not deny the success in these model years.
ehh could of had the s65 in the e90. Massive Soundtrack improvement. (yes heavier)
but that is damn nice.
Love the Red Interior like mine has,
I had a 2003 model in Imola Red in South Africa, so much fun to drive around town and absolutely sublime on long drives...drove it from Johannesburg to Durban six times (746 mile roundtrip) and from Johannesburg to Cape Town (1738 mile roundtrip) four times...I still regret selling that car all these years later!
These and the E36 make so much more sense to me than an E30. I really only dig the E30 because of its looks, but if I ever buy a bimmer, I'll be damned if it doesn't have 6 cylinders in it.
I'd get a mint restored E30 with an S54 swap from the E46 M3. Shorter wheelbase and much less weight equals more nimble handling plus I love the vintage boxy design. The E46 is still great though, it is just so heavy
At last we see it! Welcome to the club sir! Got my 03 back in 2015 with 44k miles and its been excellent. Did all maintanance and common issues myself, pretty straight forward for mechanically savvy people. But now at 69k miles a crack had appeared on the rear right subframe mounting point. So currently its keeping my garage safe 😁. Gonna reinforced and refresh the rear this spring and I'll be back singing in the angeles forest 🍻
Does Zach give you dirty looks now that you've got a cleaner m3 than he does?
But is it? Silver is the most bland color one can possibly own for this chassis… give me another LSB over a Ti any day.
Punching air for sure.
Nah - Zach's free to mod his car to his heart's content. As much as I love these, there are a dozen things you can do to make them better in any number of ways. Fitting up the suspension with poly bushings or replacing the right rubber bushings with ball joints can dramatically sharpen the handling. ZHP or Z4MC steering rack and an E34 coupler will sharpen the steering. Camber plates and some alignment changes will increase response and dial out understeer. Poly motor and trans mounts will increase NVH but sharpen shifter response and transform how the car responds to transitions. And there are many more where that came from.
All things I've done to my E36 M3 that make it so much more fun to drive than a soft stock car.
Zach's car may not be as nice, but it's probably both more fun and also the faster car.
I'm happy for you. I bought an e46 330ci almost 2 years ago and I love it (when I'm not working on it lmao), hope you enjoy your m3 as much as possible
Got an E46 M3 Vert for my 40th too! I know the coupe’s are more collectible - but I wanted and love the vert.
To enhance your oem experience buy yourself a BlueBus Bluetooth interface. I have one in my 325iT and had one in my dads e39 m5 and the Bluetooth integration is amazing.
I just got a 2004 DINAN S2 6MT M3 with 30k miles on it. It is absolutely awesome! Dinan mods make a huge difference.
Exactly. I can vouch for EAG and Evan Keller et als work and establishment. They are the best in the nation hands down. I spent 2 years sourcing a 2012 ZCP E92 M3. Bought based on conversation and video he took for me on start up and walk around. Easiest purchase and top notch handling! Quality. Quality. Quality. Congrats to Matt for his beauty E46!!
Very nice. I did something similar, but at 50. Replaced my beast of a street legal race car with a 2013 V6 Mustang with performance package. 50/50 weight distribution, reasonable power, and a joy to drive at 7/10 on a twisty mountain road.
I’ve owned E36-46 & 90 M3s. E46 is the best balanced package of them all. I wish I had one now instead of my M140i. They’re worth good money now even in the UK.
Man that car is super nice. Congrats. Having DD mine for a few years it's looking a bit rough on the edges, but in the process of bringing it back somewhat. These are special cars to those who know.
I just ordered my G80 M3 manual for the same reasons. I think it will be the last of the high HP manual cars as well as last manual M3. End of an era. I plan on keeping it for many years. Can’t wait! Congrats on the E46, always was one of my favorite car designs.
I turned 40 in December too! Very happy belated bro!! Big ups from a native Portlander 👊🏽
So glad you got this example Matt!