Good to hear, thanks for all of the input. I saw Z4Ms going for $25K+. Thought a Z3M would be in the teens but clean cars are still over $20K. Makes sense given their rarity (esp S54 LSB/LSB!!!) but we'll see. Will definitely wait for a clean car and get a PPI.

Which transmission is mated with the S54? Same 5MT as in the S52 cars?

I understand the redline in the S54 Z3M was lower (7600) and as such, BMW did not do a rod-bearing recall on the Z3Ms. I passed up the chance to buy an 01 M3 a while back due to early-S54 fears. Wondering how the engine behaves (reliability) in the Z3M form.

I honestly have only been in a 240hp Roadster version, but did like it just fine.
Is going for the S54 worth it? I do like the power and response of the ITBs. S54 is one of my favorite engines ever, but it sure commands a premium and I am afraid of bigger $$ throughout ownership with it.

If it happens, are there any 'necessary' mods to do? Or things to look for - like rear shock mounts or subframe bushings or RTABs??

Thanks again, all !!

 

The rear subframe is the only real issue with the chassis from what I've seen. And at the high end, costs around $1000 to fix if it becomes an issue.

The S54 is pretty reliable, as is the S52. The rod bearing issue on the S54 didn't affect as many cars as the internet makes it seem. Supposedly the S54 can suffer some catastrophic VANOS issues, but again, the internet blows that kind of thing out of proportion.

The S52 is cable throttle as far as I know, so it should be more responsive than the drive by wire in the S54 models, though lower on power.

I wouldn't worry as much about which engine, but more about how it was maintained. Either one will give you headaches if the car wasn't taken care of. If you find a clean, well priced example of either model I would say go for it. Either engine will make the car real fun.

 

Cool, thanks a lot.

 

Dang, really falling for them as I research more. Might have to wait until I can find a clean a lower mileage (<60K) 2001 S54 for $20-22K. That'd be a great buy - resale or to keep forever.

Amir - you mention and I read elsewhere that the cockpit is narrower and claustrophobic on the coupes. Why is that? Can you compare to the interior of an S2000?

Will have to find one to drive at some point.

 

I'm 5'10", and I am plenty comfortable in a Z3M coupe. The S2000 has always felt more cramped to me. It is a small car either way, if you're over 6' it might start to get small, but the seating position is pretty good and low enough to accommodate most.

 

It's narrow. I'm just about 6 feet tall and I felt claustrophobic. The car feels very tight around your neck and head. The seats and dash layout are great like most every BMW. Pedal box was kind of tight, but not bothersome for my size 11 shoes. Very easy car to heel-toe in.

Can't comment on the S2K, I've only driven one with the top down, but it did feel more spacious around the torso compared to the M Coupe. It was a long time ago though.

All my buddies who have/had them are in the 5'7" to 5'9" range.

FWIW, I love the feeling of the Z3 M Roadster with the top down. It feels like you're sitting on top of the car and you get a real wind-in-the-hair feel when hauling ass.

 

I own a S50 version and I must say they are such great little cars. They handle pretty good, go pretty fast (for such a small car) and look good. Not to mention the potential cult status in the future.

Their weaknesses are the rear boot floor crack issue, typical seat rocking and not much actually.

It is a great car, I love it. Buy one if you can !

EDIT : Having owned both S2K and MC, MC is much bigger on the inside. At lest the dashboard is not on your lap as in the S2k. And if you can find an example with the optional moonroff, headroom is even better than the roadster.

 

I've got an 01 with 40k on it trying to sell, email me if you're interested

 

interested indeed! please PM me color and price and any other pertinent info (accidents, options, etc). thanks!

sounds like a fun car that all 5'11' and size 10.5 of me will fit in. ive had two s2000s and fit fine though they are a little small inside.

but at $20K+ i wonder if i should just wait a little bit or spend a little more and find a clean 05 m3 competition. THAT is also a car i have and will always totally adore. but, then the doors open up to a whole host of options. argh.

 

I'm a huge fan of the M coupe. I got some seat time in one and it was a very rewarding driving experience.