that is interesting. maybe you could try the PSS9s instead since they have many different ride settings.

 

Thanks Ben, if you're referring to the M - it's gone. As for the 996 - I'll definitely consider the PSS9's if the TechArt springs don't do the trick...again, nothing major - just a noticable enough diff. to compare for Frayed.

 

Well, I'll go for a drive in the C2 I've been eyeing tomorrow after lunch. I'm really looking forward to it.

Intellectually, it's hard not to just buy the Porsche given the insignificant difference in cost. The M3, while not delivering the same sports car experience, is undeniably more luxury oriented, which is good or bad depending on your perspective.

I can certainly give up bells and whistles, but at the same time, I'm pretty picky about tightness/robustness of the chassis, suspension, interior panels.

 

911 all the way.

 

I owned E36 M3, and drove both E46 M3 and 996 C2. C2 felt a bit underpowered (manual tranny).

if i were you i'd save a bit more and get a 01 TT for ~$70-75k.

Once u go TT, you never look back!!!

 

I just traded an '03 E46 M3 with SMG for a 40th Anniversary.

Here's my 2 cents. From a performance standpoint, it's a toss up. At the margin, the M3 is a little faster. The C2 handles a bit better (although I must say the the M3 is easier to drive fast). With these 2 cars, it's really going to depend on the driver.

From a practicality standpoint, the M3 wins. It has a real backseat and a real trunk (back seats go down too).

Both cars are incredible (I wish I could have both).

Good luck with your decision.

Matt

 

Just got back from a nice test drive on some canyon roads. Here's what I feel like:



My decision is getting easier.

 

TUNINGWERKS:

Your M3 looks very nice.
Do you have more photos of your car?
Also, why did you sell it? Any regrets?

 

just my opinion but M3 looks > C2

C2s are a bit too plain, even w/ 18" rims.

but C4S + TT >>>> M3

 

Looks-wise, a stock M3 looks better than a stock C2.

However, no amount of $s put into an M3 will make it look as good as a GT3 aerokitted C2 lowered on 19" wheels.

My question is, are the '01 C2s very reliable? I hear it's the '99s that you want to avoid.

Great thread and good to see you move onto a Porsche, frayed. I hail from the S2000 board from back in the days.

 

Ahhh, yes, the S2000. Fun little car, but not destined to stay in my garage for the long haul.

The E36 M3 that I've been clinging to has been great, but it is dated. Like the Jeffersons, 'Movin' on Up'.

I've made a slight shift in focus though, going for the C4S rather than the C2. Good look with your seach as well.