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What are the key considerations when buying a used 1995 BMW M3 in 2004?
The 1995 BMW M3 was powered by an S50 inline-6 engine, which produced 240 horsepower - a significant upgrade from the previous E30 M3's 192 horsepower.
In 2004, a well-maintained 1995 M3 with average mileage could have been purchased for around $20,000-$30,000, making it a relative bargain compared to the original MSRP of $38,520.
The 1995 M3 featured a more refined chassis and suspension setup compared to the earlier E30 model, providing better handling and stability at high speeds.
One of the most common issues with used 1995 M3s was the potential for the rear subframe to crack or fail, especially on vehicles that had been heavily tracked or modified.
Careful inspection of this component was crucial.
The 1995 M3 came equipped with a 5-speed Getrag manual transmission, known for its robust design and ability to handle significant power increases from modifications.
Fuel economy for the 1995 M3 was estimated at 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, which was decent for a high-performance sports car of the era.
The 1995 M3 was the first model in the M3 lineage to feature a more aggressive, muscular design, moving away from the more subtle styling of the E30 generation.
Corrosion protection on the 1995 M3 was an improvement over previous models, but proper maintenance and rust prevention were still essential to prevent issues.
The 1995 M3 was available with a limited-slip differential, which enhanced its cornering capability and allowed for more controlled power delivery.
Replacement parts for the 1995 M3 could be more expensive and harder to find in 2004 compared to more mainstream BMW models, requiring careful budgeting for maintenance and repairs.
The 1995 M3 featured a relatively small fuel tank capacity of just 16.6 gallons, which could limit its range on longer drives.
Aftermarket support for the 1995 M3 was already well-established by 2004, allowing owners to easily upgrade and modify various components to improve performance.
The 1995 M3 had a curb weight of around 3,150 pounds, making it a relatively lightweight sports car for its era and contributing to its agile handling characteristics.
The 1995 M3's braking system included four-wheel disc brakes with floating calipers, providing good stopping power for a vehicle of its performance capabilities.
The 1995 M3's suspension setup utilized MacPherson struts in the front and a multilink rear suspension, which helped to provide a comfortable yet responsive driving experience.
The 1995 M3 was available with both a coupe and convertible body style, allowing buyers to choose between the traditional hardtop or open-air driving experience.
The 1995 M3 featured a driver-focused interior design, with a well-bolstered driver's seat and a relatively minimal amount of extraneous features or creature comforts.
The 1995 M3 was known for its excellent balance and "tossability," making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoyed spirited driving on both the street and the track.
The 1995 M3 was the last model in the E36 generation, which was succeeded by the more powerful and technologically advanced E46 M3 in 2000.
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