Counterpoint on SC E36 vs E46 (archive)

The complete automotive resource for buyers, sellers, and owners like you.

: I got tired of all the speculation. The fact is that I love the suspension, looks, brakes, and integrity of my '99 M3. I just wish it had a bit more power...So, I did something about it...Last week, I bought a Dinan Stage II Supercharger kit...Now, I have 354 HP and 310 ft lbs...0-60 in 4.5 - 4.7. Its the same great M3, but with supercar performance...Now, no matter What the E46 has in it, it will be hard pressed to turn my head. And, despite the cost of the SC kit, it still cost me alot less than selling my '99 E36 and buying the E46 at MSRP. My hunch is that equipped how most people will want, it will cost about $55K. When it actually gets here, and people see how hard it is to get one, and how much it costs, I think alot of folks will start investigating what I did....Its an excellent alternative for folks who love the E36 and want to keep it for a long time.

Like you, I have a 99M3 which I love and thought I would have a difficult time parting with. I was seriously considering the Dinan Stage2 SC as well but have decided on the E46. Unlike you, the styling of the new car turned my head. More aggressive looking than the E36. For me the numbers game worked toward the E46. Base price I am told will come in just under 45k. The base on the E36 was just under 39k. Difference of 6k. With the options I got on my 99, the E46 should come in under 50k. Assuming that options will be similarly priced (fair assumption) the price difference of 6K remains the same. My E36 was discounted about $2500 when I purchased so the purchase price difference will be around $8500 between the two (assuming MSRP on the E46 and excluding taxes). The cost of the Dinan is $7k + 20 hrs labor, excluding the cost of the required cold air intake, high flow meter, and software. Total investment probably comes in between 9 and 10k. Not a whole lot of difference IMHO.

From an investment perspective, it was a no brainer for me...the new car should hold value better than the old car with SC, and I never plan on keeping a car for more than 3-4 yrs anyway. And from what I have seen, I won't get hurt that bad selling my 99. From a performance perspective you can bet that this world car will have more than 321 (gotta be more for the Euro market) normally aspirated HP. I was told at least 340HP. It might not be as quick as the SC car (hoping it is though) but it should get close. That's why I got on the waiting list. Hey...if it's not all it's cracked up to be when firm info comes out next spring/summer, then I've lost nothing. Just get the deposit back and put it toward the SC 6 months from now! Win/Win situation.

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