"The M3 sedan is essentially the same car as the coupe, same
engine, same gearbox, same wheels, same tires, same brakes, same
suspension tuning, same wheelbase, same track, even the same
overall length. About the only visible differences are the door
count and the sedan's slightly more upright windshield. The M3
coupe comes exclusively with a manual gearbox, whereas the sedan
can be fitted with a 5-speed automatic as a $1,200 option." Road
and Track, May 1997
For consignment, a 1998 BMW M3 4 door sedan showing 76,190 miles,
but the true miles are unknown due to a PA title exemption. Our
consignor states, "every major system and know problem points have
been addressed" and that includes the infamous VANOS and cooling
system.
Exterior
Our car presents in its original Alpine Silver and the black kidney
grille is flanked by dual headlights that are covered and the low
beams are smoked for an extra aggressive look that works in
partnership with the low slung chin spoiler and integrated fog
lights. In profile, side body molding, black door handles, and a
conspicuous black B-pillar offer contrast to the clean silver while
aerodynamic body cladding is a distinctive field mark. Out back,
the understated fascia carries the coveted M emblem and a slightly
more aggressive valance making room for twin exhaust tips and a
wing on the decklid. The 17-inch cast alloy BMW wheels look great
and carry ZR rated tires. Imperfections include some typical rock
chips on the front and one small inclusion on the side, otherwise
presenting in fantastic condition.
Interior
Black dominates inside and it begins with the door panels and all
four show in nice shape. A Vader interior has been installed that
includes the very nice black leather bucket seats up front with an
M stripe accent, repeated on the heavier cushions of the rear
bench, all in great condition. A contoured leather wrapped steering
wheel presents to the driver in front of the simple and easy to
read dash E36 owners have come to adore and includes a light bar
indicating oil condition. The center stack is a flowing array of
buttons. Lots of buttons, and they're there to control the
AM/FM/Cassette radio, the climate control, and a comprehensive trip
and information computer. The center console and its UCC short
shifter is spotless and black carpet is protected by M branded
carpeted mats. The palette is complete with the addition of an
Alcantara headliner that frames the overhead console and sunroof.
The trunk is finished with charcoal panels and carpet and like the
rest of the car, is clean.
Drivetrain
The car is equipped with a 3.2 liter DOHC inline six cylinder
putting out 240 horsepower and mated to a 5-speed manual
transmission that routes power to 3.23 gears in a limited slip
differential.
Undercarriage
Clean and dry driver quality conditions prevail underneath where
the dual exhaust travels in tandem under a heat shield, through the
original equipment muffler, and out back through twin tips. Power
disc brakes are at both ends and so are Macpherson struts on the
fully independent suspension.
Drive-Ability
The bucket seats are some of the best we've planted out jeans in
and the car starts up in short order allowing us to row through the
gears and hit the test loop. This is a well balanced car with
plenty of power, great handling, and solid construction.
Functionally, we note the check control light and airbag lights are
on, the heater blower is not working, and the left low beam
headlight and left tail light are out. Beyond these things, the M
functions perfectly. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these
functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot
guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your
purchase.
There's a legend in our midst and its name is M3. Touted and
revered as one of best balanced sports coupes, (and sedans), ever
created, the M3 is a respected moniker, and deservedly so. The
seating, controls, and visibility are driver focused and it pays
off when you're in the left seat using your right foot. This one
has been well maintained and has many smile filled twists
ahead.
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic
and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit
www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us
anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee
is not included in the advertised price. All prices are before
state, city and county tax, tag, title and license fees. Out of
state buyers are responsible for all state, county, city taxes and
fees, as well as title/registration fees in the state that the
vehicle will be registered. Classic Auto Mall is not responsible
for errors and omissions. Please verify listings with dealer.
Vehicles may require VIN verification and/or safety and emissions
inspections to transfer ownership and register the vehicle in the
declared state of residence. Please check with your local DMV
office to ensure compliance with your states titling and
registration process.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune
in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy
listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
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