The time has come to offer this pristine and very rare 2000 BMW M-coupe to a new enthusiast.
This car has been on my bucket list of 'to-own' cars since I laid eyes on them at the auto show in 1997. Slightly awkward from some perspectives, and mesmerizingly gorgeous from others. Truly a love or hate design, but there is no question as to the purpose and intent of the engineering and craftsmanship. This is a guaranteed future collectible that will never leave you wanting more.
For those that know the history of the M-coupe, no introductions are needed - but for those that are curious or have no clue, good old Wiki will fill you in -
BMW M Coupe - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Roughly 700 were produced per year (S52 motor) in the 3 year run so it's safe to assume there are less than 8-10% of these in Canada. This is 1 of 51 with this exact color/option configuration.
Now about this car, in particular.
This is a US car, imported directly, and driven from Van Nuys, CA, by the previous (second) owner, the head technician of a very reputable BMW dealership here in the lower mainland. He drove the car lightly only during the dry months and it was kept in a heated garage during his ownership. He purchased the car with (I believe he quoted) 128000 miles. As it sits now, the car has 136500 miles. Based on 12000 miles per year as being deemed average, the car is where it should be, as a driver. The car has had zero insurance claims and is absolutely stock in all aspects except the Dinan rear reinforcement kit (described later)
Upon arrival in Canada, the p/o had the know-how and facilities to give the car a complete go-over and tend to any issues that possibly needed addressing. The car was given the full Inspection II, with all fluids flushed and a new radiator. All else checked out flawlessly and no work of any sort was needed.
Now the one known 'issue' with this series of BMWs is the rear subframes. The rear subframe and differential mount can crack under stress and age, and especially if tracked or driven hard. Strictly as a precautionary measure (it was showing no signs yet) - he chose to install the Dinan strengthening kit (fully documented with photos) This was done at the dealership on his time and is now a permanent and professional install to circumvent any potential problems - or give peace-of-mind should the new owner want to track the car (it never was)
Since taking ownership earlier this year, the car has performed flawlessly and has been dead reliable. The only repair I have had to tend to has been the Vanos unit. These can start to rattle and wear as they age and are a common age-related maintenance item that was starting to act up. I had a full rebuild kit installed by one of the best independant BMW shops in the Vancouver area and all has been A1 since then.
For full disclosure. I want to let any potential owner know of any possible future servicing she may need.
As amazing as it may seem - and just to show how well cared for this car is - she still has the factory clutch! I was told that it is possible that in the next year the clutch will need replacing. This is NOT a Porsche and definitely not a potential 10 hour repair. These are essentially part '80s 3 series and some E36 (90s) 3 series cars, so very basic as far as repairs and maintenance goes. I've been quoted approx. $800-900 for a complete kit, installed. As it is now, the car does not slip or chatter or have any effects of any impending clutch job needed, but very occasionally, when the clutch is released (at idle) you can hear a slight sound. Again, it's very subtle and very infrequent.
The cars' battery is getting a bit low, but again, it's never let me down, starts immediately and is also quite reasonable when it does eventually go (about $175, installed)
The previous owner took both seats out to shampoo the interior and when re-install was done, the airbag light came on shortly thereafter. He left it, but I got it diagnosed and it turns out the drivers side seatbelt latch (female part by the console) got its' sensor kinked and is causing the airbag light code. It requires the seat to be removed and the latch part to be re and re'd. I was quoted an hour labor plus the part, so maybe $200? I've left it as it simply hasn't bothered me enough.
Finally, the tires probably have about a year left on them before they will need replacement.
That's it. The car is easily as nice and as well kept an example as you are to come across - especially given that it's actually been driven and enjoyed. The paint is near flawless - very, very minor imperfections from daily driving - but easily a 9.5 out of 10. The interior, the same. Very minor wear on the drivers upper bolster, but again, a 9-9.5 overall. You will simply not believe how well preserved this car is. Nobody believes when I say it's a 12 year old car. Pictures do not do justice to the gorgeous Imola red paint and beautiful contrasting black leather.
If you are the type to be worried about the mileage, then this is not the car for you. Honestly, I was in the same boat. But after extensive research into the S52 motors and reading of owners reliability and longevity, the mindset seems to be consistent that these cars can go half a million km's before a rebuild is needed provided you take care of it and actually, occasionally use the car as God intended! I heard it said best by another owner. 'Buy the car - not the mileage!' These are very robust and stout 'over-engineered' cars and I guarantee you that one drive will put a smile on your face. And believe me, it will still be there a year later when you find that open road. This car has not only met my expectations, it has exceeded them. Tremendous power, usable space in the hatch, nimble and tossable driving dynamics, quite good fuel economy and a head turner like few others. Just an incredible little car...but sadly, I need a bit more room. That's it. The only reason I have to sell my affordable dream car. And of course, my next car wil be ///M-powered!
My asking price is $15500, which I think is fair, considering the rarity and condition. As I said, look at any others you can and then compare. I know you will not be let down in any capacity.
Please be serious. I know these are rare and some of you just want to see 'how they go' I will happily let you drive it without a ridiculous 'cash-in-hand only' test drive ad, but if you have no intetion of actually owning the car, please save us both the time.
You can reach me at (604)809-7604.
Cheers!
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