Spicy or Mild? 1998 BMW M3 Convertible versus 1996 BMW 328i Convertible

Shortly after we had posted it last week, the Estoril Blue M3 Convertible sold. That car set off an interesting debate with our readers about how acceptable an open-roofed M car can be. Most people seem to be in agreement that they would rather have the enjoyment of top down motoring at the expense of weight or chassis flex, as most folks aren’t hitting the track on a regular basis. This M3 Convertible for sale in California has a bit more mileage under its belt, but is also a 5-speed manual example, arguably the more involving gearbox choice.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1998 BMW M3 Convertible on eBay

Year: 1998
Model: M3 Convertible
Engine: 3.2 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 159,111 mi
Price: $7,990 Buy It Now

M3 5-Speed, black with off white leather. Southern California, well loved, garaged kept, corrosion free beauty.

Exterior – Excellent, no dings or dents! Excellent top, shiny black paint, gorgeous staggered rims and knee deep in a near new set of Michelin X-Pilot Sport High Performance tires.

Interior – Excellent, in mild climate, garage kept, well loved condition. Excellent from headliner to carpets. Dash, console, seats, carpets, factor M3 mats are all in excellent condition. To note, the door speakers have two broken trim rings. Aftermarket ones are available on eBay and just adhesive on.

Mechanical – Excellent, well-loved, well serviced condition. The one touch power top works flawlessly. Ice cold A/C, excellently maintained from A to Z.

I will happily organize low cost bonded and insured shipping to anywhere in the world. For a quote, provide your zip or city and country. Example pricing, Claremont CA to Miami FL – $695. Claremont to Vegas – $195.

Currently, it appears to be an optimal time to pick up an E36 M3 Convertible if you have been considering it. Prices have settled into a reasonable realm, as long as you go into one fully aware of the maintenance costs. Say you don’t need all the M power but still want some drop top fun with a Roundel badge on it? How about this red 328i Convertible for sale in New York? Equipped with the automatic gearbox, this one is optimal for easy B-road cruising.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1996 BMW 328i Convertible on eBay

Year: 1996
Model: 328i Convertible
Engine: 2.8 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Mileage: 57,000 mi
Price: $7,800 Buy It Now

Very good condition 328i Convertible with only 57,000 miles. No accidents, strong running. Two owner vehicle, spent most of its life garaged. No accidents, very solid car. Some very small chips in paint and a couple of door dings, but overall in great shape cosmetically and mechanically. The car is in need of a new rear window for convertible top or a new complete top. All original owners manuals included. Also have an outdoor car cover to include with sale. Can view car by appointment. Car is for sale locally and I reserve the right to end auction at any time. Not in a rush to sell, so no low ball ridiculous offers. Do not make an offer or buy vehicle unless you have the funds! Car doesn’t leave until certified check clears in account or cash at pickup! Shipping is the responsibility of the buyer. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Have title and lien release from bank. Thank you.

The non-M E36 Convertibles can be even more of a bargain than the M branded examples, but this example is being offered at close to the price of the M3 Convertible in this post. Granted, the M3 has a lot more mileage, but if it were my money, I’d be gunning for the M car. What say you?

-Paul