1998 BMW M3

Sedan

3.2L 3152CC l6 GAS DOHC Naturally Aspirated

Automatic

WBSCD0323WEE13987

Clear

Gasoline

This is an amazing, Brilliant Red, 1998 BMW E36 M3. I originally purchased this car for my teenage daughter (okay, perhaps I was reliving my youth vicariously through her, as this was a car I always lusted after, but didn't quite have the means for in the '90s). Upon acquisition, a couple things happened. First, I realized that there was NO WAY I was putting my beloved daughter in this rocket, and secondly, I discovered that all I had read and dreamed was true, and these cars are absolutely astounding. I am what you may call 'German car enthusiast' (my wife calls it a serious sickness), have owned over 100 Porsches, and I must say, that this car represents what may be the most well rounded and rewarding package in a vehicle: unabashed speed, and unrivaled handling, all in a 5 passenger, 4 door, automatic, sedan. The M3 platforms that have followed, have offered more refinement and HP, but that slight grit, and true connection to the road, got a little lost, somewhere in the shuffle. This car is a direct descendant of the now famous (& accordingly expensive) E30 M3, and offers many of the best characteristics of that platform, along with enhanced power, tighter handling, and a few more creature comforts. If you are viewing this listing, then chances are you know the M3 story. If not, here is a quick synopsis (some info courtesy of Wikipedia). A detailed description of this specific example follows:The E36 M3 debuted in February 1992 and was in the dealer's showrooms in November that year; it was the first M3 powered by a straight-6 engine. The engine used is a 2,990 cc (182 cu in) S50, which produces 210 kW (282 hp).Initially available as a coupe only, BMW introduced M3 convertible and saloon versions in 1994, the absence of any M5 models in the BMW line-up between the end of E34 M5 production in 1995 and the launch of the E39 M5 in 1998 prompted the introduction of the 4-door Motorsport model.In September and November 1995, the M3 coupe and saloon, respectively, were upgraded to the 236 kilowatts (316 hp) 3.2 litreS50B32 engine. At the same time, the cars received clear indicator lenses, new wheels and a 6-speed gearbox. The convertible did not receive these changes until February 1996.[8]The majority of E36 M3s were produced at the Regensburg factory; however, a small number of detuned right hand drive M3s were assembled at BMW's Rosslyn plant in Pretoria, South Africa.[9] In total, 46,525 coupe, 12,114 convertibles and 12,603 saloons were produced. The saloon ceased production in December 1997, the coupe ceased production in late 1998, and the convertible ceased production in December 1999.[7]The E36 chassis M3 was touted as one of the best handling cars of the 1990s in independent tests by Car & Driver. Known for its benign handling and balance, the car is popular amongst circuit racers and track enthusiasts. The E36 was also one of the first cars BMW designed mainly with computer aid with the use of detailed Finite Element Analysis and other software.The first E36 M3 to be imported to the United States was the 1995 model, which used the S50B30US engine with 240 bhp (179 kW; 243 PS) and 305 N·m (225 lb·ft), a different suspension setup and a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time in about six seconds. It was available with five-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The 1996–1999 model years had displacement bumped up to 3.2 litres, still with 240 bhp (179 kW; 243 PS), but torque increases to 320 N·m (240 lb·ft) which is the same S52B32US engine used in the early M Roadster and M Coupe. The manual gearbox remains a 5-speed despite the European versions being upgraded to 6-speed. It was also available as a saloon starting in model year 1997, and as convertible in 1998. A LTW (Lightweight) M3 was produced in limited numbers for the 1995 model year.US sales figures include a total of 18,961 coupes, 7,760 saloons and 6,211 convertibles.All late model M3's received subframe re-inforcements and more aggressive front end suspension geometry due to the differences in caster and camber yielded by top hat design and lower control arm bushings. There is also a fabulous organization for these cars, called the BMW Registry. Here's a great link from their page, with some details and statistics on the M3:http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=15 This specific example has been a well loved and driven (though never abused) car since new. Any and all maintenance needs have always been addressed in a timely manner. I have over $4,000.00 in service records that will accompany the car. It is not "showroom perfect", there are signs of use, such as stone chips up front, occasional dings, etc, that really point to the originality of the car as much as anything, but please be realistic. To the discriminating enthusiast, a few normal signs of age and use may appear: slightly 'warped' driver's door rubber trim (very common, replacement on eBay for approx $50 snaps right in), a rear strut may be on the verge of it's lifespan (over major bumps, it feels a little rigid in the tail), minor occasional curb rash on a couple wheels, etc. If these kinds of minute details concern you, I suggest you buy new, or come inspect the car in person, at anytime, with an appointment, to see if it meets with your approval. A full size spare, with new tire and full alloy wheel are included, as are all original books and manuals.This car performs wonderfully, with no immediate needs, no check engine (or any other) warning lights, etc. As stated, it's not new, so please be realistic, but it is as nice an example of the fabled E36 M3 as I was able to find, for a reasonable price, when I bought it. As mentioned above, the E30 M3s have gone through the roof value-wise in the last couple years ($30-50K now), and many feel the E36 will be next. Obtain a clean, original example now, while you still can! Here's a link to a video of a one minute walk around of the car: http://youtu.be/UK_vsFJo6Cw?list=UU5P4bywOsfucRksv_z8B2lg I encourage all potential buyers to come inspect the car in person PRIOR to buying or bidding. Feel free to call me with any questions or for more information. Car condition is subjective. I have owned over 100 Porsches, and am picky about my cars, but potential owners should decide for themselves if this car is for them. Car is sold AS IS, WHERE IS. Very reasonable shipping arrangements can usually be arranged through Uship.com, but transportation is ultimately the responsibility of the buyer. Zero or negative feedback bidders please contact me prior to bidding or your bid may be cancelled. Please only bid or offer if you are serious. Finally, feel free to email or call me at 574-361-5315 with any questions, more details, or if you'd like to make an offer. THIS IS A NO RESERVE AUCTION, PLEASE INSPECT FIRST, THEN BID TO WIN & BID TO OWN. Good luck!