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1998
BMW M3

Starts at:
$39,700
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New 1998 BMW M3
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • M3 2dr Cpe Manual
    Starts at
    $39,700
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • M3SA 4dr Sdn Auto
    Starts at
    $39,700
    19 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • M3S 4dr Sdn Manual
    Starts at
    $39,700
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • M3 2dr Convertible Manual
    Starts at
    $45,900
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • M3 2dr Convertible Auto
    Starts at
    $45,900
    19 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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Expert 1998 BMW M3 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

While the Z3 roadster may cause your pulse to race, the M3 is arguably the best convertible in BMW’s stable.

It has the moves of a thoroughbred, blue ribbon styling and an engine that charms you more with every gearshift. The 3.2-liter, in-line 6-cylinder jewel nestled under its graceful hood has 240 horses, about 50 more than the standard 328i. With the slightest prod of the throttle you can feel every one of them straining to run free, and when you give them free rein they snap your head back and put a huge grin on your face. Even though European M3s have considerably more horsepower, this car performs almost as well because its engine has been tuned for American driving conditions, where mid-range throttle response is more important than top speed. Consequently, getting it up to speed doesn’t take constant flogging. Just step on the gas and it moves out as if it were levitating.

Aside from its engine, the high-performance M3 differs from the standard 3-series by having a firm, sports suspension, 17-inch wheels, slightly different lower-body panels, leather upholstery and a handsome three-spoke steering wheel. The differences are subtle, and only dedicated Bimmerphiles will know you’re behind the wheel of a very special model.

Out in traffic, however, other drivers will figure out that you’re in something special as you leap to 60 mph in about 6 seconds and leave them gasping in your wake. Acceleration is only one part of the M3 equation, however. The buttoned-down suspension keeps it so firmly in touch with the road that when you point its nose into a turn it scribes an arc as cleanly as if you used a compass.

Find an open road and it gallops so effortlessly that you constantly find yourself exceeding the speed limit, even with the top down.

Driving with the top down is the best way to enjoy this car, and you can go au naturel in a matter of seconds because the top is fully electric. Hold down the button on the console and it automatically unlatches, retracts and tucks itself under a hard cover. The plastic rear window seems oddly out of place in car of this price and sophistication. Many of its competitors have a glass window with built-in defogger.

Of course, the top impinges on trunk space, but there is still enough room for a couple of carry-on bags.

The top also makes the back seat smaller, and while there is space for two, my wife found the legroom to be pretty snug when she crawled in back while we took a friend on a demonstration drive. This is a space best left to youngsters, she decided after a few minutes of riding with her feet angled to one side.

In keeping with the $45,900 base price, the M3 is lavishly equipped. Our test car’s dark green metallic paint was highlighted by a muted tan leather interior that contrasted nicely with the black instrument panel. M3 badging, including a lighted M3 crest atop the gearshift lever, was subtle. Overall, the interior felt rich and sumpt uous.

The sport bucket seats rank right up there with some of the best seats I know. They have excellent under-thigh support, while the sides grip you securely, yet firmly.

Good lighting is critical in a fast car. Low-beam headlights were so-so, but flicking on the high beams was like turning on the landing lights of a jetliner.

Brakes are another area where the M3 shines. Ventilated four-wheel disc brakes wipe off speed so efficiently I often underestimated how long it would take to stop.

With the appearance of a new 3-series sedan, a new convertible is bound to be in the works at some point in the future. It will be hard to come up with one that is any more captivating than the M3, however.

Price

The base price is $45,900. Heated seats were the only option on our test car, and they brought the sticker price to $46,970, including destination charges.

Warranty

The standard warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles, and all scheduled main nance is free for three years or 36,000 miles.

Vehicles for The Star’s week-long test drives are supplied by the auto manufacturers.

Point: If there’s anything better than a handsome convertible, it is one with a muscular engine, excellent handling and tastefully executed luxury inside.

Counterpoint: The trunk is small and the plastic back window is out of place on a car in this price range.

SPECIFICATIONS:

ENGINE: 3.2-liter, 6-cyl.

TRANSMISSION: 5-speed

WHEELBASE: 106.3 inches

CURB WEIGHT: 3,491 lbs.

BASE PRICE: $45,900

PRICE AS DRIVEN: $46,970

MPG RATING: 20 city, 27 highway

1998 BMW M3 review: Our expert's take
By

While the Z3 roadster may cause your pulse to race, the M3 is arguably the best convertible in BMW’s stable.

It has the moves of a thoroughbred, blue ribbon styling and an engine that charms you more with every gearshift. The 3.2-liter, in-line 6-cylinder jewel nestled under its graceful hood has 240 horses, about 50 more than the standard 328i. With the slightest prod of the throttle you can feel every one of them straining to run free, and when you give them free rein they snap your head back and put a huge grin on your face. Even though European M3s have considerably more horsepower, this car performs almost as well because its engine has been tuned for American driving conditions, where mid-range throttle response is more important than top speed. Consequently, getting it up to speed doesn’t take constant flogging. Just step on the gas and it moves out as if it were levitating.

Aside from its engine, the high-performance M3 differs from the standard 3-series by having a firm, sports suspension, 17-inch wheels, slightly different lower-body panels, leather upholstery and a handsome three-spoke steering wheel. The differences are subtle, and only dedicated Bimmerphiles will know you’re behind the wheel of a very special model.

Out in traffic, however, other drivers will figure out that you’re in something special as you leap to 60 mph in about 6 seconds and leave them gasping in your wake. Acceleration is only one part of the M3 equation, however. The buttoned-down suspension keeps it so firmly in touch with the road that when you point its nose into a turn it scribes an arc as cleanly as if you used a compass.

Find an open road and it gallops so effortlessly that you constantly find yourself exceeding the speed limit, even with the top down.

Driving with the top down is the best way to enjoy this car, and you can go au naturel in a matter of seconds because the top is fully electric. Hold down the button on the console and it automatically unlatches, retracts and tucks itself under a hard cover. The plastic rear window seems oddly out of place in car of this price and sophistication. Many of its competitors have a glass window with built-in defogger.

Of course, the top impinges on trunk space, but there is still enough room for a couple of carry-on bags.

The top also makes the back seat smaller, and while there is space for two, my wife found the legroom to be pretty snug when she crawled in back while we took a friend on a demonstration drive. This is a space best left to youngsters, she decided after a few minutes of riding with her feet angled to one side.

In keeping with the $45,900 base price, the M3 is lavishly equipped. Our test car’s dark green metallic paint was highlighted by a muted tan leather interior that contrasted nicely with the black instrument panel. M3 badging, including a lighted M3 crest atop the gearshift lever, was subtle. Overall, the interior felt rich and sumpt uous.

The sport bucket seats rank right up there with some of the best seats I know. They have excellent under-thigh support, while the sides grip you securely, yet firmly.

Good lighting is critical in a fast car. Low-beam headlights were so-so, but flicking on the high beams was like turning on the landing lights of a jetliner.

Brakes are another area where the M3 shines. Ventilated four-wheel disc brakes wipe off speed so efficiently I often underestimated how long it would take to stop.

With the appearance of a new 3-series sedan, a new convertible is bound to be in the works at some point in the future. It will be hard to come up with one that is any more captivating than the M3, however.

Price

The base price is $45,900. Heated seats were the only option on our test car, and they brought the sticker price to $46,970, including destination charges.

Warranty

The standard warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles, and all scheduled main nance is free for three years or 36,000 miles.

Vehicles for The Star’s week-long test drives are supplied by the auto manufacturers.

Point: If there’s anything better than a handsome convertible, it is one with a muscular engine, excellent handling and tastefully executed luxury inside.

Counterpoint: The trunk is small and the plastic back window is out of place on a car in this price range.

SPECIFICATIONS:

ENGINE: 3.2-liter, 6-cyl.

TRANSMISSION: 5-speed

WHEELBASE: 106.3 inches

CURB WEIGHT: 3,491 lbs.

BASE PRICE: $45,900

PRICE AS DRIVEN: $46,970

MPG RATING: 20 city, 27 highway

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Certified Pre-Owned Elite with less than 15,000 miles; Certified Pre-Owned with less than 60,000 miles
Basic
1 year / unlimited miles from expiration of 4-year / 50,000-mile new car warranty
Dealer certification
196-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 10 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 3.8
Interior 4.0
Performance 4.7
Value 4.8
Exterior 4.7
Reliability 4.2

Most recent

  • Truly an Excellent Sports Car

    This is a car I've wanted to own for years. Handling perfection with just the right amount of power and luxury. Comfortable even on long trips. Reliable when basic maintenance is taken care of. These cars are great bargains at current prices, get one before they're all gone!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Analog In A Digital Age

    Cars, much like many other components of modern life, are showrooms for all the latest technology the modern consumer needs. In many ways this is great but at a certain point they lose their car-iness and become tools for abstracting the driver away from the driving itself. I would guess car manufacturers are responding to what the customers are asking for. But I fell in love with cars long ago not because their a tool or a means to an end. I like cars that are meant to be driven and that create a relationship between you and its interfaces. The E36 M3 is a performance car from an era where this relationship still mattered and this is part of why it lured me in in the first place. No WiFi, no Bluetooth, no color touch screen, no digital instrument cluster, no rear-view camera - mine doesn't even have a CD player. But BMW's iconic straight six engine mated to a five speed manual transmission is glorious to drive spiritedly and this is the reason I bought it. There isn't an abundance of assists getting in between you and the driving experience and correspondingly there are less electronic bits to go wrong. The E36 era of M3 is going on 20 years old - even for its youngest model - so a budget for maintenance is something to consider if this car is on your list of possibilities. There used to be chatter of a "$10k rule" on the enthusiast forums, meaning that regardless of whether you buy a $5k E36 M3 or a $8k E36 M3 you'll have to spend the difference between that and $10k to get it into reliable shape. Based on my experience that sounds about right. Problem areas are well documented on the enthusiast forums as are their solutions which make this platform alluring if you're interested in tackling DIY-level maintenance tasks yourself. The E36 M3 isn't for everyone but if you're after an unfiltered driving experience at a somewhat reasonable price it's a strong candidate. Going into it with proper expectations, ownership can be a gratifying experience.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great Purchase

    The entire purchase experience was one that you would not expect at a typical car dealership. I dealt directly with the owner who was also the decision maker. What I liked especially was that the entire emphasis of the conversations that took place between the two of us were to address my questions and concerns, to better understand what I wanted rather than the glorification of the vehicle driven by the desire to sell. Also, the handling of the administrative tasks was executed smoothly and I also decided to puchase the extended warranty. I told all my buddies how happy I was with the purchase and the experience as well as the young owner who is also a car enthusiast. I hope you find this review helpful and good luck on your purchase.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Zen and the Art of Sports Car Maintenance

    Owning this car has been a near-spiritual experience for me. After years of owning economical four-bangers, I spent a weekend as a guest of BMW North America at Road Atlanta for Petit Le Mans 2010. Two weeks later there was an M3 parked in the spot outside my apartment and there was a new key in my pocket. These cars ain't for sissies. I'm not talking about driving - I swapped cars with my timid mother for a week while I was moving some stuff with her Toyota. She came away smiling. Where these cars bite you is in maintenance - either in the wallet if you're not mechanically inclined, or by devouring long hours of your time if you can swing a wrench. Being an aircraft mechanic was a blessing for me when it came to owning this car. The e36 M3's are not new cars. They may look new. They may smell new, and they often drive like new, but there's always some bit of rubber, somewhere, that has deteriorated away out of sight and awaits your attention. There is a huge amount of support on several forums that has proven worth its weight in gold, and the maintenance manuals are an absolute must, even if you're not doing much of the wrench work yourself. I've shied away from working on cars for years because I thought they were far more complex than the simple airplanes I maintained. Owning this car has taught me that with patience, persistence and a positive attitude, nearly any job on the car can be done yourself. These cars demand more upkeep than an American or Japanese car, but the effort is rewarded each time you get in and turn the key. M3's aren't rocket ships - they're quick, don't get me wrong - but they handle magnificently, and if you see a gap in traffic, you can gun it and pop right into the flow. I smile at every interstate exit/entrance ramp that I turn onto. Do your homework. Learn the car's weak points, i.e. rear strut mounts, Rear Trailing Arm Bushings, the VANOS variable timing system, etc. Test drive several of them. I fell in love at first sight and bought the first one I drove. The suspension was clapped-out and the engine wasn't running strong, but I had not benchmark to compare it to. After my 315,000 mile RAV4, it was a luxury ride. Buy this car and just try to frown as you walk up to it in the parking lot for your ride home after a long day at work. I dare you. These cars have soul.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 3.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Extremely sporty

    Coming from an Acura, found the BMW (and that too a 98) to be a world of difference when it comes to driveability. The car is a finely tuned machine. The car had some issues initially (as it had been sitting in a garage for the longest time and some annoying ones), if taken care of early, has been reliable. The interior is driver centric with all the controls easily within reach. These cars come with sport seats, have a pretty decent stereo system (HK), plenty of controls and a very effective air condition. The car is easy to work on if you have the right tools and there is plenty of support available online. The car can be a lot more expensive if not maintained by oneself. Absolutely loving every moment I'm in the car and hope to do so for a long time.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Bang for the buck German performance

    Went with the purchase an e36 M over an e46 M little over a year and a half ago and have been grinning ever since. I always wanted an M3 and the e36 was the generation I fell in love with so I finally pulled the trigger. You have to hunt around and buy a cream puff from another enthusiast but they are out there. The chassis of the e36 handles like nothing else I've driven and you feel glued to your seat which feels glued to the road. I get in trouble all the time with motor and the handling saves me every time. Which bring me to the motor. Wow... There are more horses out there but what a great combo of screaming horse power, torque, and balance. I never knew 240 hp could feel like 300! You will have to watch the car like a hawk and do PREVENTATIVE maintenance. You cannot wait for stuff to break and then bring it into your mechanic, so factor maintenance costs into your purchase price and take care of your bimmer! All in all highly recommend this car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • fun car

    i like it.. but it could definetly be better...its a workout to drive as a daily driver.. the seats are not that comfortable.. its a peppy car.. clutch is hard.. looks really nice outside.. inside is boring with the orange/redish light. it is reliable but, you will always hear a wierd sound. stereo is not that great. air condition is really weak.. if you drive it like the way your are suppose to the gas mileage is not that great. there is not much of anything you can do to make it got faster. its as quick as an e46 bmw 330.. which is not that great of an accomplishment.. you definetly feel like you had a work out when you are done driving it.. it great excersice.. lol. no room for the people in the back.. it is safe with minor collision
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Stylish Supercar

    This convertible brings high performance and wind-in-your-hair grins to your garage. Fantastic, controlled handling, even at speeds exceeding 100 mph, strong acceleration, great 5 speed, and fun at any speed with the convertible down. Great seats and stereo complete the package. This is one great car!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • BMW Tuners Delight

    I've had the pleasure of owning this vehicle. It's fast, sharp on turns, and with 99,000 mile on the odometer, It still flies like new. I had lowered my vehicle, upgraded the brakes w/ slotted and drilled rotors, racing brake pads, angel eyes conversion, clear all around w/ euro taillights. The Estoril blue still turns heads after I role out of a car wash. The upgraded sound system definitely pounds. You can expect some pretty expensive maintenance, but a well maintained car will take care of you. I've gotten away from the expensive dealer fixes by replacing most parts with after market ones. They are usually a little less expensive, and they are far superior in quality to the BMW oem. Brands to recommend: Bilstein, Brembo, Dinan, Active Autowerke, and turner motorsport. Enjoy the ride, its trully a blast getting to feel 140mph on a flat curvy surface. Nice agressive look. I am almost sad to say goodbye.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 1998 BMW M3 4-door Sedan

    It's really a driving machine. The M3 has excellent handling, powerful high performance racing equipped, and luxury settings. This particular model was a top winner for the autobahn, and build its recognition.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 1998 BMW M3?

The 1998 BMW M3 is available in 3 trim levels:

  • M3 (3 styles)
  • M3s (1 style)
  • M3sA (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 1998 BMW M3?

The 1998 BMW M3 offers up to 19 MPG in city driving and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 1998 BMW M3?

The 1998 BMW M3 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 1998 BMW M3 reliable?

The 1998 BMW M3 has an average reliability rating of 4.2 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 1998 BMW M3 owners.

Is the 1998 BMW M3 a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 1998 BMW M3. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 10 reviews
  • Comfort: 3.8
  • Interior: 4.0
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.8
  • Exterior: 4.7
  • Reliability: 4.2

BMW M3 history

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