This has got me thinking of getting a cheap E36 318is as a semi-project and holding off another year for the 86. (financial issue as well)

That is what I was thinking as well. Don't want to put too much into a E36 but would drive it until 2nd/3rd year BRZ to see if its really what I want and any rumors or plans for BRZ STI or WRX/STI. If I find a good deal, I could probably sell it for close to what I paid for it. However my Mazda is still running well with no issues so then I ask myself why get rid of a perfectly good car just go buy a used car with just as many miles on it as mine and be 7-8 years older.

No. Just no. If you have to get an e36 318, get the 318ti (it's at least unique). If you just want a cheap four banger, get an e30 318is. Much better project car. I had an e36 325i for four years. I swore never to own anything slower than that ever again.

I like the odd styling of the 318ti, but it got the older E30 interior and rear semi-trailing arm suspension. Not feeling the semi-trailing arms.

The E36 M3 may not be as highly prized for all out handling as it's fabled predecessor the E30, but if you're looking for a fast, practical 4 seater coupe that is equally at home on road and track then there are few better candidates for the money.

The E36 M3 is such a fun car. Maintenance is key with this car and expect to spend money to fix up a cheaper used one or on a better kept used one. Either way go to youtube and watch the prepurchase advise vids there. That guy knows what he is talking about.

I love the E36 M3 I have. It was not that well loved by the prior owners but I don't mind putting some money into it to make it right. Not too hard to make about 240hp to the wheels with the right tune and boltons. This car can handle though. I can't get enough of driving it.

Don't let milage scare you too much. My buddy's S52 motor has 211,000 and dynos at 240hp at the wheels with boltons and OBDI tune and runs like a champ. Its all in how well maintained it is.

Oh and lastly read up on "money shifting" before you start driving it hard!

lately i've been having naughty ideas of buying an E30 of sorts, and using the extra money to put some really proper pieces on the both the MR2 and the E30. but in the end, i think having the warranty and something new will be nice, so i'll still go ahead and get the FRS. but holy hell i'd like to get a nice E30. :)

I went car shopping with a friend a couple months back and we went to go see a E36 M3 four door... it had a straight pipe and great looking 18s... gold brakes, flawless body, clean history, 60k miles, white, clean black interior... for $4.5k. Almost bought it. We still talk about it to this day. The engine note is unreal.

Seriously? Wow if it is as clean and great condition as you say that would have been a steal. If I could find something similar I totally would. Just haven't been lucky enough to find anything that is in good shape for a good price yet. Was that car being sold in NY? Sure it wasn't stolen. :bellyroll:

That's a stupid cheap price..

Lol yea it was in queens.

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I wish we bought it :( Oh and it had a full size spare in the trunk, like new and same style as the ones on it.

damn..for $4.5k?? i would have bought it in a heart beat. sh*t!

There are deals out there, just keep lookin man. Today I came across a craigslist ad for an M3 going for $1200... but sold by the time I called.

i LOVE my E36 (altho it's only a 328), still drives awesome.