BMW M3 ($8k, $15k, $25k)

I start with the M3 because I am a BMW driver myself, and have always had a soft-spot for these lean mean racing machines. Just one glance and you know what it is. The styling is iconic with the split kidney grills, low and wide stance and "boxy" like fronts all screaming BMW. The M3 has gradually morphed into the looks of the rest of the BMW range through the 2000's. Now a graceful curving hood, aggressive aero kit, and an optional carbon fiber roof make this car one that you can't pass up a chance to drive/own.

While scanning around in the $8,000 maximum price, one can expect to find late '90's models with about 130,000 miles on them. Sadly, no convertibles are showing up in this price range. Some best case scenarios are 1999's with around 110,000 miles on them. The late 90's and early 2000's kept the iconic boxy front, and aggressive stance that the M3 is commonly known for today. Do not be disheartened by sitting at your computer reading about how great an 11year old car is with over 100,000 miles. These cars still have plenty of life left in them, and can be easily customized with aftermarket parts. The interior of these cars are extremely comfortable, and have the signature BMW seating position, nice and relaxed. The quality tends to be in average condition (depending on the car) for this price range.

While scanning around in the $15,000 maximum price, one can expect to find '02's and a few '03's. The '03's however are going to have more miles on them than the '02's. You can get a 2002 M3 with as little as 100,000 miles, and going back to the late '90's models, one could find them in the mid 60's. One big advantage to this price range is that it does contain the convertible option. However, as with every car, expect the roof extensively before purchase because you could end up having to replace the top. The body style for this price range is just beginning the morph into present day M3 styling with slight curves added to the aero kit, and various parts of the car. Again, do not be disheartened by sitting at your computer reading about how great a 8-9 year old car is with 100,000 miles. These cars still will turn some heads no matter where you live. The interior of these cars are about the same comfort as the previous years, and the quality tends to be in average-above average condition (depending on the car) for this price range.

While scanning around in the $25,000 maximum price, one can expect to find numerous 03's with 25,000 miles on them and numerous '05's (some '06's) with 55,000+ miles. There is still a convertible option available at this price point. However, as with every car, expect the roof extensively before purchase because you could end up having to replace the top. The body style for this price range is continuing the morph into present day M3 styling with more curves added to the aero kit, and various parts of the car. Do not be disheartened by the thought of driving a '03 with 25,000miles, or a '06 with 60,000miles. These are great cars that will turn heads even more than in the last price point. The interior of these cars received a huge upgrade in the comfort compared to the late '90's model. The quality tends to be in above average condition (depending on the car) for this price range.

Bottom line: If you want a nice reliable classic racing BMW, this is your car no matter what year. If your budget is greater then 25k, you can get more current models, or older with less miles.