jimxo

Would you buy a used M3 CONVERTIBLE OR SC430 (Years 2004-2006)

pbm317

ummmm i don't think i've ever heard anyone compare these two cars... haha

other than the fact that they're both convertibles, one is a sports car, one is a cruiser/gt type car.

PVlexus

Well the M3 will give you more fun for you money, but it will most likely have more problems. The Lexus is a cruiser that you can go anywhere with, while the M3 is more of a fun, weekend car.

It totally depends on what you're looking for.

Personally, I'd take the M3. Those things are sweet

luxury1

I would also take the M3 but you can rest assured that the owner before you beat that car hard where the SC may have never done a sprint to 60.

You tolerance for repairs bills is also important with an M3. Expensive to fix and expensive to maintain but if you can afford it then it is a good toy.

Maybe you should consider the Boxster also???

tex2670

I'd get the M3, even if it was 1st gen

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

Used M3 = most likely beaten and abused and modded by previous owner. It's an enthusiasts' car.

Used SC430 = luxo-cruiser mentality is to keep it nice and comfortable. It will most likely be in pristine condition, with little trouble.

I8ABMR

I think I would stick with the M3. I think the SC is ugly as all hell. It will be alot more reliable though so watch out if there is no warranty left. If there is no warranty have the dealership pay for a warranty extension.

kit cat

iTrader: (6)

If I am getting an E46 M3, it better be a hardtop with 3 pedals. I personally would get a M3 but it's up to you. Go drive the two, they are two different animals.

2002GGPIS3

Go with a CPO M3, unless you do not like to drive fast, then go for the SC430.

aquanuke

I had a E46 330 convertible before I bought my SC430. Only had the BMW 6 months before it needed engine work. So was glad to get shot of it.

No one buys an M3 and does not drive the nuts off it. So expect it to be well abused.

In nearly 6 years only thing go wrong with my SC430 was an 02 sensor.. pretty common and not expensive couple hundred $'s.

With a few mods you can certainly get the SC430 as fast in a straight line as an e46 M3, but will never handle close to one around the corners.

Mbenz528i

Aquanuke's SC430 is a sexy ride and looks amazing, but with that said, it is one of the few SC's that I think look as good as a stock M3. The M3 is just a sweeter all around car to drive, own, enjoy. But like everyone else said, GET A WARRANTY or no go!

rominl

iTrader: (4)

wow, totally different cars man, you really have to ask what you want out of it. sc430 is a luxury cruiser, hard top beats soft top any day. but it doesn't have the speed, handling, or the sound of the m3

i have driven the e46 m3 extensively. it's fun, but over time i found it too loud and stiff for my needs. but for sure that thing is fast and handles well

I8ABMR

I have to say watch out for the abusive previous owner. I would also advise you that my buddy at work has an 05 328 that blew the motor at 105K. sound like an american car in reliability. The lexus would never inspire to go ***** out. Its probably not going to have seen the same abuse ( clutch drops, rev limiter shashing shift points, burn outs ...all the stuff I would do to an M3)

ffpowerLN

iTrader: (1)

This is like an apple-to-chicken comparison...

jimxo

thanks for the feed back. I think the new IS may be the way to go. i think the price will be to steep so the sc430 may work better.

wait and see.