Used BMW M3 Base for sale near Laguna Woods, CA

We had an incredible experience working with Kenny and the team — he truly helped us get into our dream car. From start to finish, Kenny went above and beyond to make sure our goals were met. He worked closely with us on our trade-in value, MSRP discount, available rebates, and loan rate to build a deal that made sense for us. What really stood out was his commitment and professionalism — Kenny stayed late with us to make sure we could close the sale before the BMW promotion ended, and never once made us feel rushed or pressured. He was transparent, patient, and genuinely invested in helping us make the right decision. We’re thrilled with our new BMW and so grateful for Kenny’s support throughout the process. Highly recommend working with him and this dealership!

I got a lot of head nods on drive home People seem to like it. May be because the new style is eye catching I have owned other sport car. This one is my favorite.

Oil Change was a breeze. Was greeted by service advisor as soon as I pulled in. Great service. Service advisor called when vehicle was ready.

Given I ordered the car with a cool optional paint color, it gets much attention wherever I go. In addition, the overall look, sound and performance enhance the attention. I have owned many performance cars over the years and to date the 2022 M3 Competition is the best car the I have owned and the most exciting and rewarding to drive.

I purchased a truck for my business here after having a bad experience at another dealer. Aaron personally went to their second location to pick my truck up. Thanks Pacific

The M3 has gotten very luxurious while losing nothing in performance. Choices abound. the car starts in comfort/efficiency mode, if you are just going to the supermarket. But two "M" buttons on the steering wheel (you set them up yourself) can quickly change that. I have M1 set up for sporty and M2 for "to the max". The seats are a bit firm. I can ask the car to cool itself via a BMW app 10 minutes before I arrive. Many things like that. The manual transmission is standard BMW, similar to my 14 year old 1M. Many options are via virtual buttons, menus, and submenus, but I got used to it faster than I expected. Through the app I can check how much gas I have and what the tire pressure is and where I've driven (you can turn that off). It can connect to the dealer for regular maintenance. It's amazing! I'm not crazy over the electric clutch, but I'm getting used to it.

The E92 BMW M3 competition introduced in 2011 is a magical sweet spot in sports cars and the M lineup in particular. THREE circles overlap. ONE. The S65 engine is bespoke, only introduced in the 2008-2013 model. The normally aspirated 4.0L V8 weighs less than the inline 6 it replaces from the E46 and revs to 8300 rpm with 100 more hp. Literally the international engine of the year during every year of its production. Importantly it has no turbos. 8 separate throttle bodies, and a lightweight fly wheel. It will teach you what throttle response really means and overlaps with.. TWO. In the ZCP competition variant of the E92 this mates with a Getrag dual clutch. A manual lover, this made me switch religion. Odd/even transmissions and millisecond shifts with no gap in power pair perfectly with the race revving v8. And THREE.. sublime MDM traction control. All newer M models with turbo engines and comparatively sluggish throttle response include this. This is the final overlap. Instant throttle plus instant transmission plus instant handling equals the car dancing in and out of its performance envelope like a trained show dog. Buy one and good luck. I have several Ms. Not selling this one. Oh.. Minuses: Eats expensive tires like popcorn, sell your clutch foot to pay for brake platters. Head gaskets ooze around the 100k range. Worth it.

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.

The 2001-2006 BMW M3 (chassis code E46). This generation of M3, like others was and still is and icon of sport and spirited diving. When new, this set the bar and was the measuring stick by which other cars were evaluated. Sure, it doesn't have all the current tech, even seeming Spartan compared to all the comforts of a large high-end luxury sedan or SUV, but that's never been why we love M3s. Now the E46 M3 is between 14-19 years old and it's performance on paper is comparable to that of a new Civic Si, but it still has something that very few cars have. Dare I say it at the risk being cliche? Soul. The M3 wasn't supposed to be the fastest in a straight line but a well balanced alround touring car. Its the perfect balance of handling, power not too much power, and class while still reasonable enough to drive everyday or just on those nice spring Sundays. It does "fun" VERY well and that is why it still is one of the most pleasing cards to drive. The looks are before a lot of the more controversial later BMW designs. It has that work of art, screamer of an in-line 6 cylinder S54 motor (2001 engine of the year winner and winner of the 3-4 L category for six straight years in a row 2001-2006). Though SMG had begun to increase in popularity, some E46 M3s still came with an honest to goodness manual transmission. This is what makes the E46 M3 one of the best of what seems to be a dying bread of cars and values should hold (or even increase) through the years like most other M cars have done historically. Cost of ownership isn't cheap. It's a BMW, no surprise there. However, failure and repair costs increase when considering SMG equipped M3's. Another thing you should consider is how much money you'll spend washing and waxing it then time sitting there and staring. That's one of my hobbies too... when not driving it. The E46 M3 is in an icon in a lineage of special cars and had become an instant classic.

BRANDT was amazing ! My niece took ownership of the 2020 Fiat Spider He was EPIC! Highly recommend AARON AUTO !! The whole Staff is a pleasure. Mahalo, MJ

I had a bit of a unique experience with Horsepower Motors (in a good way), as I bought my car from them from out of state. I cannot say enough great things about Dany & Eric. They had a 2018 Model S at a fantastic price, and I jumped on it as soon as I could. Dany kept his word, and followed through with what he said he was going to do at every turn. No hidden or outrageous fees that I’ve unfortunately experienced at other dealerships. Know that you’ll be well taken care of at Horsepower Motors, and if the opportunity presents itself in the future, I will happily do business with them again! Thank you! Nick T.

I bought this 2016 Mineral white M3 Dct fully loaded with every option except extended leather in 2017 with 6000 miles on the clock. The car has been an exhilarating joy to own and nothing compares to it in its price range. Sure you can buy a Camaro, Dodge or a Mustang for less money but neither have the interior, body design, or finesse the M3 has. The DCT is second only to Porsche's PDK. Yes, I've owned and driven a lot of cars to make these comparisons. Reliability and maintenance 40k miles later has been a positive because things do not break as long as you are routine about your maintenance intervals, but remember this is a BMW so maintenance is not cheap. Would I buy again? Without a second thought I would as I prepare for purchase and the release of the G80 M3 Awd in 2021. Something the M3 is in need of due to torque of the rear wheel drive F80.

J Star Dodge has the best customer service of any place of business I frequent. They have been the only place I use to service my 2019 Dodge Durango. I have 69,200 miles and it runs like it’s brand new.

Loved this car while I owned it. I’ve had a couple BMWs and this was by far the most reliable and fun vehicle thus far.

I had been reviewing your cars on your website for about a month. I had favored a 2023 X2 on the site. I tracked it for about a month. When I finally had some time I decided to come test drive it. When I arrrived with my friend, we walked the lot looking at all the different cars. We were greeted by Alex Dimov while looking for cars. I told him that I was looking for a particular car and he pointed it out right away. He asked me if I wanted to test drive it? and away we went. While we were driving we had very pleasant conversation. He is extremely easy to talk to and he made me feel comfortable. Once we got back we decided to explore maybe purchasing the car. We sat down talked business, did a lil negotiating of price and a deal was made. I have to say Alex made the whole transaction pretty much painless. It felt more like a conversation than a negotiation. He knows how to talk to people and make them feel comfortable in what some might say a is a stressful situation. I didn?t feel any stress or being uncomfortable during the purchase process. Once a price was agreed upon Alex introduced me to the finance guy?. Sorry I forgot his name. He was also very easy to talk to and kept it stress free. While I was with him, Alex had the car detailed and fueled. When i finished with finance Alex walked me over to my new car handed me the key and took pictures for me. He was very helpful in explaining how to operate the car. Lots of bells and whistles I never used before. Alex was so patient teaching me. He actually help me set up the Apple CarPlay and a few other things. He let me know if I had any other questions or concerns I could call him for help. The next day he did text me to make sure I was ok and to see if I needed any assistance. I feel lucky and blessed he was my Salesman. Such a pleasant, stress free and almost fun experience because of Alex.

I have two bmw m3 competition sedans, with 503 hp and 4 easy computer driving modes, this is a absolute best car for the ‘real world’…as an aggressive but sensible driver, I am getting a remarkable 24.0mpg using the lockup high gear,?overages 35.4 mph in the real world, dynamic styling with many young people commented on the aggressive looks plus the gorgeous interior with professional seats,

Rich was great to work with . No pressure !! Was a great experience... BEAUTIFUL CARS ! Great Dealership..,,,, would come back Love my new Porsche !

Feels like a true sports car in the 6 speed manual. Handles excellent. No turbos! Just pure and simple Bmw V8 muscle. E92 has a reason to have fans.

The prices attracted me. The customer service and experience/ level of knowledge was not great. There was an inconsistency of dealership policy. It would be nice to get a car for the price you expect. I felt forced to purchase items I did not want

I’ve been trying to get an M3 for 15yrs now and I finally found the one I wanted with low miles and affordable. I love the performances and handling and the power is mind blowing!

Great experience.. we had a little hiccup during the test drive but It was rectified and the sale was made .. they have quality high end cars and pleasant personnel. .. great experience again!

I'd been driving 328i's for over 10 years but always wanted an M3.  I only wanted an E92/S-65 version and took my time to find the right one.  I found it two years ago (in 2018) at a dealership 900 miles away from where I live:  It was a 2013 with only 27,800 miles on it.  I flew down to check it out.  It was Space Grey and had the competition package and cold weather package.  Another interesting feature I discovered when I got there, was that it also had the Dinan exhaust system as well.  The dealer never mentioned that and the web pictures never showed it.  He had no idea of the added value.  The car was spotless and I was impressed. The test drive sealed the deal.  What a machine. I felt I stole it for $34,000.  It has the 7 speed dual clutch tranny.  I've always driven sticks, and my previous 328's were all sticks, but at 61 years of age, and with the idiot drivers in NC, I actually preferred a slushbox at this point.  The dual clutch tranny is outstanding.  The shifts are tighter than anything I could ever do with the manual, but if I want to go into sport mode, I can do it grabbing the console shifter or by tapping the paddles.   While the M3 is more known for its speed, it is also incredibly comfortable to drive.  The leather seats are well cushioned and just hug you from the side.  I have a bad back, and driving this home from Miami to NC straight through, I had no additional pain at all by the end of the trip.  The interior trim is fairly simple  but well appointed.  Mine has the wood grained dash, and also has the rear window power sun screen.  Also has the recessed GPS and the premium sound system.  This car is the last of a rare breed - a naturally aspirated V-8 with a sound that is simply glorious.  It has three tones: a low smooth rumble at idle, a growl with normal acceleration, and an absolute roar if you jump on it.  According to my 21 year old son (who owns my previous 328i coupe), I drive it too gently, though he's  not always with me.  :-)  I let him drive it a couple of times and his face lit up as he put it through its paces in sport mode.  I probably do drive it too easy most of the time.  I don't track it, but I've certainly had some fun with it.  It is nice to know I have the power there when I want it, especially on the interstate.  Going into "M" mode is a real treat.  The car just takes off like a rocket and it pins you to the rear of the seat.  It's handling is firm, but not uncomfortable, and it takes corners with ease. Beyond its power and handling, this is simply a beautiful car with incredible lines, my favorite being the flared rocker panels.  I originally figured I'd keep it for a couple of years until I "got it out of my system".  I still haven't, and can't imagine I ever will.  I still look forward to driving this every day.  The newer M3's are admittedly even faster, but they sound like crap.  I rarely even listen to music in mine.  The sound of the S-65 engine as it goes through its paces is like a symphony to me. It now has 55,000 miles on it, and those are predominately interstate and back road miles to and from work.  I'm getting ready to retire, so the yearly mileage will be even less now.  I don't plan to sell it.  It's just too much fun to drive.   I recommend this car wholeheartedly.  As the last of the naturally aspirated M cars, is destined to be a classic and I believe it will hold its value very well.

Shawn was very helpful. I just can't get the financing right now. Best, George

I bought this car a year ago because I drove one like it in the Black Forest ten years ago and it was a blast I never forgot. This convertible's inline naturally aspirated 6 is the best sounding and revving engine ever! It has a Dinan exhaust which completes the package. With 19s al around it sticks to the road like glue!!I can't wait to drive it every time I can and hate storing it over the winter!!

I was looking for a very specific car and ZRV had most of the options I wanted. That's when I got in contact with Zora. Zora is the kind of car salesman I would definitely do business with. Zora was prompt, clear, and very responsive in helping me find the precise car I was looking for. I would recommend this business.

I fell in love with the E46 M3 back in the days of high school. The styling, the handling, the aggressive fenders -- it was something to drool over at the time and age. I could not be any more proud of happy to own this car.

This was one of the best experiences I had purchasing a vehicle everyone was kind a very knowledgeable. This was the quickest I've ever purchased a car thank u !!!

BMW E46 M3.. while many cars can out perform the older M3, this is my favorite, for classic, gorgeous BMW coupe looks, the last of the non-tubo 6 cylinder, and elegant interior with more than enough technology underlying the simple cockpit and controls and yet outstanding performance when you want, and docile enough to enjoy around town. Really, just an all around sweet package!

I have had a couple warranty-covered issues with my otherwise-wonderful 2018 Pacifica. At J-Star, there was no hassle and they even noticed another warranty-covered item and took care of it for me.

Fantastic does everything car -- kids to school, been camping with it, cross-country drives, autocross / track racing, etc. Amazing sport exhaust sound and multiple personalities -- purring kitten in comfort mode or roaring tiger in Sport Plus!

I cannot recommend Eddie Aguilar at California Motors Direct enough! If you want a salesperson who is terrifically professional and truly on your side, this is the guy. We drove through two counties and fought a ton of traffic to make this deal happen, and Eddie was more than patient with our schedule. What really blew us away was that he and his manager stayed late just to ensure we left that night with the car we deserved. It felt like "NO" wasn't even in his work vocabulary—he ground out the details and made the numbers work perfectly for both the lender and me. The BMW i4 is running beautifully, and you weren't lying when you said I paid below market price! My girlfriend was so impressed by how sincerely genuine the excellent service was that she is already planning to come back to CMD to purchase her next vehicle. Facts. Cheers fellas!