As we close out the year here at GCFSB, it’s safe to say that 2013 could be considered the year of the M3. With the original E30 leading the charge on the value charts, we’ve seen the effect trickle down and values have begun to creep up on its successor, the E36 M3. With the E36, however, there were several different variants available, some being more popular than others. Curiously, the M3 sedan was a tad bit lighter than its two-door sibling, making it the not so obvious choice for the track day enthusiast. Does the automatic gearbox in this example for sale in Florida diminish the fun?
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1998 BMW M3 Sedan on eBay
Year: 1998
Model: M3 Sedan
Engine: 3.2 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Mileage: 75,100 mi
Price: Reserve auction
Selling Points: This is an all Original Techno-Violet Metallic 1998 BMW M3. The car has never been painted or wrecked. I am the third owner. The M3 is in original condition inside and out. The car has a few small scratches on the hood and rear quarter panel. The wheels are in great shape and tires are O.K. The engine runs excellent, and transmission is solid. It has the original Harmon Kardon sound system. I have the original window sticker,keys, and manual. I also have the service history record printout/CARFAX from BMW. I have more pictures if interested. The car is located in Boca Raton, FL. I have owned the car since Jan of 2012 and was rarely driven. Small power-steering hose and oil pan leak. Water pump and front struts have been replaced. Oil change is due, by time. Car mostly was driven on weekends or to car shows. NO modifications (i.e. exhaust,chip,rims, or aftermarket crap).
There are those who would not buy an M3 if it didn’t have the almight third pedal. I’ll admit, I’m one of them. However, having driven an automatic M3 sedan, it’s not the worst vehicle in the world. It’s still quite rapid and for those who are looking for more of a fast cruiser with outright speed, the two pedal option may not be a bad choice. The mileage on this one is reasonable and the color combo is one sought after by a decent number of enthusiasts. However, the automatic versions of the E36 M3 will always trail their manual counterparts by a little bit. I’d suspect this one to wind up somewhere in the $10,000 to $12,000 range by the time the auction winds down.
-Paul
The sedans do have a bit of a cult following (and a catchy way to shorten when you have an M3 sedan 5 speed in M3/4/5 ;)), but hmm techno-violet on white leather with the automatic, not in my personal sweet spot. 2.5 days left and bidding at $5500, not yet meeting reserve on a pretty clean car.
Also why do people post eBay ads and mention that they have more pics available? FYI – sellers, the best thing to do with your pictures is post as many quality ones as you have!