Here Is the Best Spec E90 E92 M3 - BMW M3 Buyers Guide

[@Motorheaddoc]

3:09 I disagree with the manual transmission. Sure I’m all for the preservation of manuals but BMWs manual feel is inferior to other makes such as Porsche and if you’ve driving a good manual, the manual of this just doesn’t stack up.

[@993mike]

I'm the original owner of a low mileage 2008 model with the full Dinan package (short of the 4.6L engine!) on BBS LM-R's, and it's a great car. As for the rod bearings, US owners especially are notorious for not bringing the oil up to temp before hammering the throttle, and you just can't do that on what's basically a race engine like this S65 V-8 or a Porsche GT3. Warm it up!! I've done a yearly Blackstone oil test and have had zero issues.

[@EatSleepDrive]

A UOA is definitely on my list in the future.

[@CraigMarolf]

This car was specifically equipped with a DCT designed for the S65. Because the torque peak is at such a high RPM and you have to maintain high revs for peak performance, the DCT with its instant shifting of the DCT was the solution to prevent falling out of the power band. While I agree the manual is more fun, the DCT can’t be written off, it was literally designed for this car with a specific purpose. Also- I set out to buy an Interlagos or a melbourne. After a few months I stumbled across a LeMans blue (similar to interlagos). There are less of those produced than the Interlagos. I’m happy I ended up with LMB but I’d take Interlagos, I’m just not sure Interlagos would be considered more collectible, despite it being an M only color.

[@nytnapoli8327]

Also like the e46 generation coupe in blue with a manual. Beautiful cars.

[@EatSleepDrive]

The Laguna Seca blue E46 M3's are some of my favorite ever.

[@Peanutdenver]

@@EatSleepDrive Not a fan of the Competition Pack?

[@Gofindilya]

If you’re after rarity, they made even fewer in LeMans Blue than Interlagos Blue.

[@garretgrant2290]

Nah the frozen white

[@Gofindilya]

774 Mineral White E92s produced for US/Canada. 508 in Le Mans Blue.

[@Gofindilya]

@@user-dv4pz7qj7x My original comment was only talking about a exterior color. You can do the same interior color nitpicking with LMB and it would once again be even rarer than MW as there are fewer cars to begin with. MW is a neat color but it will not turn as many heads as LeMans Blue, Interlagos Blue, and Melbourne Red. Those are the best (and rarest) colors for the M3 IMO.

[@Gofindilya]

@@user-dv4pz7qj7x That's a, uh, 'unique' opinion. Whatever you say, man.

[@mattg1094]

I had the frozen white for two years... very difficult to upkeep >_< hoe to find it again one day though

[@SDG-cv4br]

The manual is slower but funner to drive. I have the dct and love it but you’re 100% right.

[@bekiro28]

Everyone describe the dream spec car 2011 and up comp package carbon roof 6 speed manual under 70k miles but no one says it comes with a price tag over 40k as of now i had one last year for 38k 2013 carbon roof comp pack manual with 60k miles i loved the damn thing i sold it after 8 months and missed the thing and want to buy another one but i didn't want to spend over 40k this time so i went out and bought a 2009 white with black interior no carbon roof no comp package and its dct with 100k miles and guess what i am having as much fun if not more for 21k so experience is same feels as special as the other one don't get hung up on spec find one matching your price range while you can and have tons of fun with it before they get so old and you have to restore the damn thing spending 20k on top of the purchase price Over all they are special vehicles and dirt cheap for low 20k price tag

[@sandorhajdu1129]

I had a 08 e92 6MT in Jerez Black for 5 years, loved it!

[@curtislovrak5390]

With the e36 M3 market you’re starting to see people really looking for the M3/4/5 (manual sedans). The e90 M3 sedan is also special because it was the only e9x sedan with the coupe specific front fascia.

[@BIMMERZEITT]

Good timing man, I just put out an E39 buyers guide yesterday! I guess it's that time of year for BMW buying guides lol!

[@m.cooper1854]

Thanks for this video. I had not really considered how rare my 2008 Melbourne Red E93 convertible must be. After 11 years my E93 remains a spectacular driver's car. You could mention two important recalls. One was the HVAC blower motor (corrosion from potential water leak in the cowl) and the battery wiring harness in the trunk (risk of fire). Back in 2008, no one thought this would be the only V8 M3 ever built, although I suspected it might be the last naturally aspirated car.

[@EatSleepDrive]

Good info. The recalls were probably worth mentioning, but I wanted to focus on out of pocket expenses. Probably makes sense to include next time, thanks for the feedback!

[@chrisdoko687]

Yeah but your pre lci...yuck nav and dct

[@aidangannon3967]

The fire orange was stunning a kid in my hs had one and it was really good looking

[@faveadams85]

The BMW interior updates make this car look like if fell outta heaven., great drive

[@EatSleepDrive]

Thanks!

[@r129r16pfl]

Agree! CF roof and manual is way to go. I wloud add to the purist spec - dash with no infoscreen (very rare) and R18 wheels

[@PedroDelgado724]

Mine was one of 200 when I found the specs lists I have an e90 M3,dct, no infotainment but has every other luxury option and I had the r18 wheels but I've changed them out for her 20s

[@PedroDelgado724]

Hre*

[@dacrab1]

Following prices for the last couple years and having both an 08 e90 6sp 110k miles as my daily for the last 8yrs and 2011 e90 6sp comp spec 28k miles the sedan seems to trading for higher values than coups and convertibles Great cars!

[@nickybomz]

Great video. Have you driven the E92 M3 with DCT? Not only is it faster, but just a pleasure to drive (besides being a little clunky in traffic). I've always been a manual man, but I would never change my M3 DCT for a manual.

[@EatSleepDrive]

Yes, I've driven one, I think it's a great transmission. I just think that in the long term as cars continue to go electric, manual gas cars will be sought after since you simply won't be able to get them anymore. It's an experience that is going away that a lot of people still really enjoy.

[@nickybomz]

@@EatSleepDrive Some very good points you make. Cheers.

[@Ducky_Shorts_ftp]

I watched this video a long time ago, now I have my own

[@martinsmith577]

Moon roof a car guy calling it a moon roof over a sun roof and I wouldn’t say the manual is the superior I’ve had both and I wouldn’t ever choose a manual over a dct now! Especially once you’ve mapped the dct box.

[@curtislovrak5390]

If I got one I would go great lengths to find a 6mt e90 with no idrive.

[@vegeta12379]

Personally I'd go after a Melbourne Red Coupe or Sedan with every option ticked (sunroof, idrive, etc) and manual transmission

[@sk8absence]

e90 radio only dash is one of the best BMW dashboard designs ever.

[@24dross]

We all have our own opinions and I'd have to agree with most of yours. Extended leather (Fox Red) is another great option on these cars as it makes the interior seem much more high end. Agreed that the manual and carbon roof a must. EDC is questionable in my opinion, and a good set of adjustable coilovers can be a great option if the stock suspension is needing replacement. It all comes down to what you are doing with the car that would make the biggest decision as to going 4-door or coupe. I love the look of both, but if the car is not your daily driver, then I'd say you have to go with the coupe. Great vid man!

[@EatSleepDrive]

All great points. I appreciate the feedback!

[@RickyVall3y]

I have a ‘11 M3 coupe with a DTC !! Carbon fiber roof with no iDrive

[@certain_ed]

How do you spec out a car that’s not current? I mean, aren’t we limited with the specs selected by the previous owners? Seriously asking

[@chrisdoko687]

E90 LCI Saloon Space Grey Metallic. IMO 4doors of this generation will hold value. Have changed out the throttle actuators and starter at the same time. Take advantage to change out other things and save on labor in the long run. Cleaned the idler valve as well. Most post 09's don't have significant rod bearing issues as they changed over materials but still. All the technicians I've spoken with have never seen one fail. Definitely, if you can't afford this car then you in the wrong club. Manual is only 6 speed btw, gotta love that 7th! LCI's are where its at. Update idrive//etc. Updated vehicle over all. BMW lists its fluid as 'lifetime', but on paper they mean 100k miles. You should want to reseal all the major components on the vehicle and new fluid.

[@CraigMarolf]

I think 4 doors have peaked. They have held their value really well but as time marches on, these cars become more and more inconvenient to own. As it becomes increasingly impossible and cost prohibitive to daily drive the desire for the extra doors won’t exist. Right now now you can still take the kids to school or the family on a weekend trip in it. In 10 years, nobody will. When those back doors have no use, the coupe will edge out the sedan. That’s my opinion based on logic and automotive history. But I’ve been wrong before :shrug:

[@PedroDelgado724]

Guys please go to a professional for the rod bearings cause you got to also replace the engine mounts if you do so and lots of stuff can go wrong especially if the mounts are really work down cause when putting the new ones little things like the engine sitting lower etc and also starting the car and a bunch of stuff that could go wrong in a job that literally takes 10 hours to do

[@JorgesWorld94]

Should do a suggested mods list next! great video btw

[@EatSleepDrive]

I like it. I'll make one down the road when I've done more mods lol.

[@subsixtynk95]

Speed cloth, you are forgetting the SPEED CLOTH!

[@zhaoyangxie]

Nick Kwon does that work well long term? I worry cloth seats will smell bad

[@picanha694]

@@zhaoyangxie you can wet vacuum it and it will be brand new again. just don't smoke on it.

[@CraigMarolf]

Cloth seats are fart traps for poor people

[@speb]

Greetings from Melbourne Australia. Great video I drive the same but in white with same front lip. Great choice!

[@stefanoabad2405]

@spencer nguyen what front lip is that? its beautiful

[@jaloldean5446]

I'm going to buy next week in Sydney. Do u recommend to onw one of these? The one I'm buying is e93 convrrtible with 70ks on it. How is maintenance cost and reliability on our roads in Australia

[@forrestkong3455]

The phrase ‘costs an arm and leg’ is used to describe anything that is considered to be extremely expensive or excessively pricey. Okay, good video for me to learn English, yeah~

[@taimou1000]

Looking for a long time for frozen white E92 with Fox red interior and the carbon roof (and now EDC)

[@bolt-ktk]

did you get it?

[@Zoksta69]

Great video! Are the rod bearings meant to be changed every 60,000 miles or is it a once off job on the m3?

[@StarrBwoyyHD]

Not sure if you mentioned it but I would go for red interior

[@danhall5761]

StarrBwoyy HD why? Its way worse for resell. Anyone over 25 hates that kinda thing.

[@DomesticLlamas23]

@@danhall5761 bitches love red interior

[@BitcoinTo150K]

I want one

[@CosminGCole97]

Where can one get that splitter from ?

[@mdcohen]

As a guy looking for one as a family car, four doors all the way. The weight difference and chassis rigidity aren’t big enough to be relevant. Imho the sedan looks better too. The carbon top will be likely be the more collectible but these cars are still depreciating so if the plan to own one for three years then I’m not sure it’s going to matter.

[@EatSleepDrive]

For a family 4 doors all the way. I think these things are close to the bottom of their depreciation cycle so I'm more interested in preservation and collect-ability.

[@mdcohen]

EatSleepDrive true enough but with the way you trade out cars every few months I’m not sure collectibility matters ;) Love the videos. Always looking forward to more from you.

[@slimtimes.l.l.c4081]

Good video you make me want one

[@murdakidrecords1919]

I swear the 3 series or the m3 had heads up display but i cant find any proof of it

[@gtr1952]

I was a bit surprised to learn that the 1992-2005 SMG, gen_1 - gen_3, transmission was the same as the 6sp manual, just using electronically controlled hydraulics to shift it. I heard there are also some shops on the west coast that can convert the SMG back to manual, and the mounts etc. for the clutch are already in the car, making it not a crazy expensive thing to do. After the SMG they used the Getrag duel clutch. I thought they would go with the ZF for newer M's, like the Porsche PDK, as they are using the ZF in 3's now, along with 5's and up, including SUV's But I think they stayed with Getrag..

[@EatSleepDrive]

Yep, the SMG cars are interesting in that regard because they can be relatively easily converted. The DCT cars on the other hand aren't nearly as easily done. I like the ZF8 in the 335i I had. For a torque converted automatic, it was pretty awesome.

[@charliemontero5217]

Great video thanks for the tips

[@EatSleepDrive]

Cheers.

[@tashinorbu3454]

I kinda don't want any electronic crap. Just engine , transmission, good suspension and please dip stick where I can manually check oil .

[@DaleSteel]

The carbon roof will be cheaper to make than a fully eclectic sliding sunroof. So in actual fact it was a good move for bmw because they make more money.

[@DriveItRyan]

Great Video! I agree with mostly everything you said. Only time will tell whether or not the e92 or e90 holds their value more. I bought my E90 mostly because I see way less of them around compared to the E92. At the end of the day though, they are both absolutely intoxicating cars with a 6spd manual and S65 V8 😎

[@zcackkn]

How you take care the tag when you bought your car out of state privately？

[@SnowBeltDetails]

Ken Nip if the seller is cool you could borrow the plate just to drive home under your insurance then mail it back. If no plates are available you will have to ship.

[@zcackkn]

blueliner1776 Thank you sir !

[@Tain950]

Excellent review definitely spot on with your information 👍 I have a feeling that these will hold their value and become a classic do to being the last NA high revving V8 M3 made.

[@KzLollapalooza]

Thank you

[@aetrole4060]

Fuel tank breather valve..

[@kirstenpitts2845]

Anyone know where I can get this front lip?

[@matomatic6005]

Best color space gray

[@fcc1311]

Comp or noncomp worth it???

[@jdigioia1130]

What year is this one - 2008? Thanks!

[@EatSleepDrive]

Yes, 08

[@AbrahamMusalem]

I'm looking into buying a red competition package e92 M3 but it has 63k miles and has not had the rod bearings changed. I'm torn haha

[@alexthyer]

just buy it and change the bearings lol

[@EatSleepDrive]

What Thyer said. Just negotiate it into the price.

[@AbrahamMusalem]

Thanks!!

[@stefanoabad2405]

@EatSleepDrive what is the carbon fiber lip on the front? I need one!! beautiful car man

[@julienmichaud739]

gts lips I guess ?

[@ARKXR1]

how about frozen silver?

[@ARKXR1]

i saw a 2012 e92 for 26000 usd and 39000 miles in frozen silver

[@WatchM3Struggle]

I prefer my DCT because traffic lol

[@EatSleepDrive]

That's fair.

[@Fee.1]

I have NEVER once been tempted by the e92 dct even knowing how great it is....until I heard a GT3 RS rowing through the gears and instantly wondered if I could reproduce that even slightly with a lighter flywheel etc. in the e92

[@abrahamg3354]

@@Fee.1 The E92 M3 DCT is already one of the top ten fastest transmissions in the world. Shifting is so violent and satisfying. This car was made for the DCT.

[@anthonyb2990]

@@abrahamg3354 Yeah plus the manual you'll need new clutches and that's like a $2k job

[@jasonalbert4746]

Somewhat unrelated but not. I’m in the Dayton area a lot as that’s where I grew up. You would have the faster car but my W211 E500 4Matic wagon would enjoy a play date with your M3. Lol. Sweet wheels. I enjoy you channel very much.

[@EatSleepDrive]

I've actually had my eye on E500's for a little while. Those engines are basically bulletproof. Would make a great daily. I'll be posting on IG if I plan to go to any local cars and coffee, usually go on cruises afterwards. But now that winter/salt is here, the M3 nor the Evo will be making it out much.

[@melwaj5563]

You should mention how never to buy a 2008 since it’s the worst year for the model (rod bearing failure)

[@craigg8185]

E9X Production Stats (by Model, Transmission, Country, and Color): drive.google.com/file/d/12qD9NmbeI0jlHvEEJbvUwFhoIbVUfz08/view?fbclid=IwAR2u82RLoRMjb9DYDqWgxciFzEhEy12G_voo0vyPrAKgBLrQf7lrcBRtiOA I have a US Model, E92 M3, 6MT, Santorini Blue, Supercharged making it a fairly rare BMW... Good stats for bookmarking purposes.

[@Clubskunk]

I’m in a tough dilemma between the e92 m3 or the e92 335i xdrive, me living in the east coast dealing with snow a lot and my job is around dealing with driving to work in the worst weather is making me want to get the 335i xdrive but there still something in me that wants the m3 n throw some winter tires on and deal with the snow. Anyone in or was in this situation ?

[@EatSleepDrive]

I think you'd enjoy both, but if you're primarily using it for commuting, especially in traffic, I would say just get the 335. You need more open twisty roads to truly enjoy the M3. With that said, the 335 has it's own fair share of problems. I made another video on them back when I had my 335.

[@Clubskunk]

EatSleepDrive thanks so much for ur reply, keep up the videos. I think best bet might be the 335i than later on get the m3.

[@gt1r]

No iDrive (nav screen) is a must in my opinion. 18” wheels are a plus. Depending on the spec sedans are around 20-50 pounds so the difference is pretty negligible.

[@allanc1942]

Elliot Davis lol

[@slimtimes.l.l.c4081]

V8 M3 that's the 1 rite there nice

[@tashinorbu3454]

Let's pray for twin turbo V8 in 2021.

[@jamesaron1967]

One can only wish! The chances of that happening are next to nil. For one, it would likely take sales away from the higher-tiered M coupes and decrease distinction between product lines, and secondly, all the rumors/news are pointing to an inline-6 turbo similar to the current gen but obviously upgraded. Not a single rumor is pointing towards a higher cylinder count that I'm aware of. There's various other reasons why a V8 isn't happening on the 3/4 series platform. Suffice to say that BMW marketing and accounting departments would almost certainly be adamantly opposed to such a move. I would LOVE to be mistaken. The E92 M3 was my dream car for years but it's wearing long in the tooth and I'd need a warranty, so I'm avoiding this iconic V8, sadly.

[@curtislovrak5390]

Tashi Norbu there’s already been info released that it will be the s58 straight 6 with a torque converter auto with awd like the M5. A traditional rwd and 3 pedals will be available.

[@abrahamg3354]

@@jamesaron1967 Good thing you are avoiding them. I own one and I'm highly confident with the reliability of my E92 M3 ZCP w/ DCT or any M3 past 55k miles. Almost 70k miles stock components and no issues what so ever. Daily redlined aswell.

[@abrahamg3354]

This car is built for the DCT. No opinions, it’s obvious that it is. This car suffers performance loss greatly if its equipped with manual.

[@craigg8185]

You can also get a re-manufactured TBA with unlimited miles lifetime warranty from www.mpowermotorsports.org/bmw-throttle-actuator-online-store at $360 each and pay a quality repair shop about 3 to 4 hours of labor to install. Estimated total cost is $1000

[@SdC083]

Lets not forget that the E46 M3 GTR was a V8.

[@stephenwilson2793]

How many videos on KZbin claim the e9x to be “the only/first V8 m3” 🙄

[@SdC083]

@@stephenwilson2793 too many lol

[@jameswiththeM6]

I prefer dct for speed

[@frankysantos4793]

I just prefer a Mercedes or Maserati or a Alfa Romeo They have the same design and style for years inside and out and they never have change it And they’re not that reliable either so I rather take a Japanese car but if I have to choose a luxury car alfa Romeo or Mercedes or Maserati

[@abrahamg3354]

If I had to go for a Japanese car I’d go for Toyota or Honda, they’ve been the same for many years but they’re unreliable. I never owned one though so I’m good.

[@TheCr7sucks]

Maserati be having Dodge Dart parts as well as Mercedes from those year look quite dated compared to bmws at least to me outside well yea both look nice

[@tellmeiamwrong]

A manual does not suit this car, it one of the few cars out they that doesn't suit a manual. It makes it feel slow and heavy !

[@m5p944]

This is no go for me. I live in Florida, carbon fiber roof is just dumb. Must be hard top and DCT transmission

[@desirelovell]

🔥💕🔥💕🔥💕🔥. #v8 #bimmer #e92 #carbonfiber #roof #speed #e90 #love #desirelovell

[@jazzydavis5168]

Rather a e93 m3

[@muhammadmoosa6885]

"like...like...like...like..." LIKE STOP SAYING LIKE OR SHUT UP!

[@tellmeiamwrong]

Competition. Yes Manual. No- Rare but that does not make it any good

[@Californification]

You literally just described my last car. Lol! Mine had exactly the same specs except it was a E90 so CF roof wasn't an option. I did however have the Sun Roof Delete. Here is a memorable video from that amazing car :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJmwhYKXf5t_aas

[@CarGuysCarGuy]

The most desirable E9x M3 is the E92 stripper, no iDrive, no EDC, no sunroof, and no PDC.

[@CarGuysCarGuy]

and of course manual.

[@gt1r]

I agree, no EDC is a plus in my opinion. Most of the time it’s just deleted with coil overs anyways.

[@allanc1942]

Haha

[@micraw714]

I was grateful to find that exact one a few months ago with only 60k miles 😁

[@twinturbo8304]

too much work keep my 335

[@frankysantos4793]

Dude I love your video and everything but nobody have $2000 laying around just to fix something on a car that it supposed to last you a long time and they advertise that is the ultimate driving machine

[@f3irty278]

franky santos sorry but you’re wrong, there’s plenty of people with $2k laying around (not me). Regardless, when buying a 10+ year old German performance car you should expect to put some $ into it. You could also buy one that already had rod bearings done...but clearly this type of car isn’t for you.

[@24dross]

If you are serious about purchasing one of these, then hopefully you would go in aware of the issue and negotiate based on whether they were replaced. I purchased an e92 M3 a couple of years ago and knew very well I was going to replace them after purchase. Anybody selling one of these cars would have to be willing to negotiate a little based on the potential for failure on these bearings.

[@dinodino1620]

This car is definitely not for you.

[@turbopickle9720]

Yea there advertised as the “ultimate DRIVING machine” not the ultimate reliable machine. If you plan on getting a BMW you need to have more then just 2k laying around, I speak from experience.

[@frankysantos4793]

It alright because I don’t really like German cars to much

[@tanectanec8566]

Garbage