In terms of what, why is it a disappointment?

 

Interesting how some are suggesting to get the 335.
M3 has way better chassis and let's not forget, LSD's only come with the M
Of course, some can say anyone can put the LSD on the 335 but the M is still a better car.
N54 motor was great, but it was problematic to say the least. This is coming from the e93 335i that my brother had that had over 6k in repairs done, about 10k after warranty expired.

 

there you go. i had a few friends back then when i had the m3 and some of them had the 335. they said the car could be fast, but one turn on the m3 and that's all the difference. just the steering ratio and feel alone was different

 

I love the steering wheel on my e46 330 ZHP and upon googling it, folks who drive the m3 also praise it when comparing the m3 to the ZHP.

"the steering wheel ratio better in the ZHP but that's it."

But I digress.

To the topic at hand, if this is going to be your daily, then you need the newer platform as it will be more refined but then it will also be more sterile, relatively speaking of course

 

Yes but nearly all N54 powered cars have had their HPFPs replaced.

 

I absolutely LOVE the E46, but being at LEAST about 10 years old now, I think you almost have to go with the E92. I always wanted an E92 but never bought one because I couldn't find the combo I was looking for.

 

I'm no BMW expert, but can't you spec out the 335i with the top level sports package to where it has the M3 brakes, wheels/tires/suspension setup?

I'd say drive a 335i and an M3 and decide which you want. If you don't want the manual in the M3, I am not a fan of the DCT transmission and would go with the 335i with a conventional torque converter automatic. The DCT shifts/bucks/jerks like a 15 year old who has never driven stick before in normal driving and is known for catastrophic failure at low miles.

 

no, you can't get m3 steering (for example) on the 335i. and m3 has different chassis enforcement too

 

e92! How many cars can you buy under 100k that has a v8 ITBS!

 

E92.

I've driven the E92, 335, and E46, and the E92 is the clear winner IMO.

 

E46 M3 is a special car and is my favorite BY FAR in terms of styling.
Its still has that very raw driving experience without all the electronic stuff.
Reliability sucks and finding one that is in pristine condition is tough.

E92 M3 is much more modern car and the V8 is truly amazing, steering feel is amazing.
Lots of these cars are still in good shape and can be bought as CPOs with warranty.

If i had the $$$$, i would get both.
If you plan to daily it, then definitely get the E92.