Buying a used BMW - M3 or M5? | Ask Honest John

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Buying a used BMW - M3 or M5?

I am looking for a second hand BMW M3 or M5. I only do about 8000 miles a year and I fancy something with four-doors and some speed when required. I am looking at something maybe 4-5 years old, but would prefer an automatic.

We live in a city and have a child, so I need something with enough room in the back and a decent boot. Also can you give any pointers on what to look for on both cars?

Asked on 3 October 2014 by Martylaa

Answered by Honest John

The E60 M5 is a weird car. Very fast, but a strange transmission that makes parking and manoeuvring a bit fraught. On the other hand, a V8 E90 M3 4-door is rare. Might be better to go for a 335i 4-door. The F10 M4 is sensationally quick, but also quite big and heavy. And you can get a six cylinder F30 M3, but that is a new model. No such thing as one 4-5 years old.

Tags: buying a used car technical issues

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