Hi all,

DISCLAIMER: I know this is an RX8 forum. I am posting a similar thread on an M3 forum to get the other perspective.

Long story short I want to learn how to drive well and am looking for a RWD car. My hope is to attend 2-4 track days and 3-6 Autocross events every year. I am not looking to modify the car and want to keep it in stock class. I really want a car with a back seat and am not interested in convertibles (otherwise a Miata would be a no brainer). At this point I have narrowed it down to two cars, a E36 M3 or an RX8. Price points would be pretty similar (unless I splurged for the Recaros in an R3, but the 19in wheels would be a pain tire wise for stock class).

I am having a hard time figuring out what I prefer and was looking for some feedback. Here are the differences as I see them:

M3 cheaper up front, true four doors, definitely a DIY car or upkeep costs will increase (am aware of many of the common issues and would get a PPI), older car with the potential of high dollar repairs, more torque, slightly heavier, good local club to get involved in (North Star), etc.

RX8 more expensive up front (especially R3), warranty (predictable expense, rather than unknown), slightly more of a momentum car, larger wheel size (I would probably get 17x9s for track or autocross if I didn't care about class), etc.

I am missing a few things, but those are my thoughts at the moment. One other note is that this would be third vehicle for my wife and I, so it would not be a full time DD (it could turn into one down the road if I sell my Gen1 Insight). I have driven a couple RX8s and an E46 M3, but have not got in an E36 M3 yet (I know this could tip the scales one way or the other). I would like to hear your thoughts or see if you have any other suggestions.

One other note I can budget up to 20k, but would rather keep it around 15k to save the extra 5k for seat time at the track...

An RX8 specific question: Is the R3 worth it for the Recaros and suspension? Or will the stock seats in an 07-09 sport be good enough for track and autocross?

Thanks

 

E36 M3 will be very different from the E46 M3 but probably less maintenance. E36 M3 engine is not that powerful compare to E46 M3.
RX8 R3's are very hard to find now. you need to look very hard. as for the Recaro's, some people like them some don't. its all personal preference.
it all comes down which one do you prefer.

 

The Recaros are a nice feature, but certainly not NEEDED for tracking the car if that is what you are worried about, many of the members here with s1's track all of the time and seem to have no problem with the seats. As for which car to get I have no experience with m3's so I couldnt tell you.