So the time has come to decide between the two. A C5Z and an E46 M3 (2001-2006). They are both in the same price range and I cannot make up my mind. There's pros and cons to each of them. If I ask which one you would pick I know what most of the answers will be. So I would like to know WHY you would pick your Z over the BMW.

 

A few reasons why I'd choose the Z06.
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The maintenance costs and performance you get for the price.

Price to modify the M3 vs the Z06.

Price of stock parts for each car.

Bigger aftermarket for the LSx engines.

Number of reputable shops that know LSx engines in and out.

The versatility of the Z06 over the M3. The Z06 reigns in straight line and in the turns. M3 is 300-700lbs heavier.

Better gas mileage on the Z06.
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Those are just a few reasons. I'd be willing to bet insurance would be cheaper also.

Good luck on the decision and let us know what you decide.

 

The Z06 is more of a sports car, sounds better, has more torque, and more power.

 

LOL... I saw your post on the bimmerforum and responded.

Smart thing to do, posting on both.

 

Depends on what you want to do with it. I had the same decision a few years back when I was looking at the two vehicles new. My choice was not for a daily driver, but one I would drive very little, autocross alot and attend the occassional open track/de session. For me, the Z was the perfect choice, for alot of the reasons raised above. In the end, the car just flat out performs better, is relatively inexpensive to mod and is an absolute great car to compete with. It's fun and fast. That being said, I know a few guys that do all of the above AND use it as a daily driver.

 

I have driven a E46 M3 and it is a great car. Outstanding. But do you need the back seat? If you do, then you cannot lose with the M3. But it is simply not in the same league as the Z06 as far as performance goes. I just got through reading an old comparison of a M3 vs. a 01 385hp Z06. The Z06 won EVERY test. Slalom, skidpad, race course, 0-60. 0-100-0, and braking. If performance is what you are after the Z06 cannot be beaten. If a comfortable all around package with good performance is what you prefer, then go for the M3.

 

This going to be a toy or a DD? If a toy I vote Z06. If a DD I vote M3.

 

Well said and that sums it up perfectly - 2 very different breed of cars. Good luck with your choice

 

The car would be a toy as I have a realiable DD right now. I think the smarter choice is the Z06. The only thing holding me back is that the E46 M3 has always been my dream car and I can finally afford it so it makes the decision very tough.

 

Back in 2003 I was in your same position. I wanted a fun fair weather street toy (read non-daily driver). So I went and test drove both a new E46 M3 and a new C5 Z06. I drove the M3 first and my impressions were:
Nice car overall and I liked the interior a lot!
The steering feel felt good
The exhaust was lacking, kind of "tinny" sounding, a bit weak
I noticed a slight hesitation in between shifts, like it wouldn't take the gas
Sorta quick, but lacked any *****
Overall a nice car, but a little wimpy for a fair-weather street TOY

Then I drove the Z06:
Comfortable inside
Much better driving position then I expected it would have
I really like the shifter
As soon as I started it, I smiled
TORQUE! NOTHING puts a smile on the face like torque.

The decision to buy the Z06 instead of the M3 was really over when the engine started. NO COMPARISON.

Having said all this, I think the M3 is a nice car and I might buy the new one when it comes out. The two cars are drastically different.
M3 = 2+2 whereas the Z06 is a strict 2-seater
M3 = relatively small 6 cylinder with little torque that makes OK horsepower by spinning the motor relatively high, whereas the Z06 has a relatively big V8 with solid torque and horsepower available down low.
And lastly, image:
M3 definately conveys a very different image then a Z06.

- Max

 

i'd go for the dream car. if you dont get it, it will always be in the back of your mind. The vette has always been my dream car, so thats what i got. now if you want a comparison, i would say the vette all the way. the question is, how bad do you want the M3?

 

Little kids on the street don't wave at M3s.

 

If you are really having a hard time deciding between the Z and an M3 then get the M3. Leave the Z for someone that will really enjoy it! Good Luck on your decision!

 

lmao aint that the truth.

 

post a link to the thread..i want to see what the bimmer guys are saying.

 

My roomate has an 05 M3 and I have an 02 Z06. When we go somewhere we're in the Z EVERY time. Any questions?

EDIT:

 

redls1gto - gotta say I love that avatar!!! personal "friend" of yours or just a random hottie?

oh, and you would get more chicks like the one in redls1gto's avatar with the Z06 than the M3! see, I still stayed on topic

 

Get the M3, you said yourself the M3 has alkways been your dreamcar so that's your answer.

 

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...d.php?t=746397

Very biased community, but decent answers.

 

I may be wrong, but I always thought that was what's her name from "Sex in the City" ..... my girlfriend watches it while I'm in the room staring at the wall behind the TV.