Re: M3 (E36) vs 850CSi (E31) (archive)

M3: Quick, throwable fun for short trips and autocrossing. There are a lot of these on the road as Steve C. pointed out, but you may just be into cars for the drivability.

8 Series: Fast, long-haul 100mph+ cruiser that (with an 850CSi anyway) handles well, but is a bit heavy if you like to eat up corners morning, noon, and night. Any long trip will leave you feeling like you just left.

The 850CSi is VERY VERY rare and extremely fast. 0-60 stock times match or beat the M3 @ 5.3/sec. They have beefed up suspension, wheels, etc. You may want to read back through the old posts here if you are truely interested in an E31. You also may want to check prices on the 850CSi and make sure it is a *real* one. They will run you $60-70K plus for a good example.

If you are looking at an 850i, or Ci, I STRONGLY recommend you do some research ahead of time of which year and model is which. For instance, after 1993 all non-CSi E31s had automatics. Also, the CSi version was only produced in 94-95 with 200 or so here in the US.

Don't be seduced by the E31's looks alone. These are very rare autos that can be $$ to maintain and might not be what you are looking for in the drivability dept. Find one and take it for a spin at a dealership, you'll see what I mean.

By the way: of the two cars, I can't really pick one over the other from a driving standpoint. they each have their merits. And to be sure, they don't come close to comparing to one another... it would be like asking if the Acura Integra GSR was better than the NSX... apples to oranges as Steve C. has mentioned. (For snob appeal though.... NOTHING looks like an 8 Series. We are subjected to cheap pop shots from other Bimwads because of this!)

You may want to hear from others on this subject as well. I know a few other E31 owners on this board own M3s as well and might be able to lead you to this same conclusion.

Remember to ask yourself: What do I want to do with my BMW?

1. Hit the track? (M3)
2. Hit the highway? (8 Series)

Good Luck!!

Sean
'97 328i
'92 850i

Follow Ups:

Re: M3 (E36) vs 850CSi (E31) Josh 19:42 12/02/99 (0)

[ Follow Ups ] [ 8-series (E31) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.