Dinan Equipped: 1998 BMW M3 Convertible – SOLD!

August 11, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this M3 “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

The BMW E36 M3 is a modern-day classic, and its performance credentials are such that many enthusiasts tend to place the convertible edition lower on the desirability list. But when certain cars combine a number of desirable features, the shame of the soft top becomes easier to deflect. This 1998 BMW M3 convertible was originally listed in August 2021 on Craigslist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with numerous Dinan upgrades and the preferred five-speed manual for $16,500. Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has his M3 convertible priced between the #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $27,800 and the #3 “Good” estimate of $16,300.

Most high-priced E36 M3s are of the survivor variety these days, with mileage safely under 50,000 and limited to coupes and sedans. The reluctance to embrace the M3 convertible means they are one of the better deals out there for a genuine M car, and it’s also one of the few modern convertibles that can accommodate four adults. Throw in the fact that it can be had with a traditional manual transmission and it becomes even more of a unicorn. For the best of both worlds experience, throw on the accessory hardtop and you’ll get even closer to a true four-season convertible. The M3 of this vintage was outfitted with the more powerful S52 inline-six engine, which puts around 240 horsepower at the disposal of the driver – all while being able to hear the glorious exhaust note that accompanies a barky inline-six.

This M3 convertible checks a lot of boxes, not only for its clean condition despite having close to 150,000 miles but also for its color combination and generous Dinan equipment list. Estoril Blue is one of the best E36 colors out there, and a welcome change of pace from the traditional blacks and silvers that many M3s of this generation come in. The seller has also added several desirable Dinan upgrades, including a cold air intake, exhaust, throttle body, and more. One of the pricier repair jobs on any convertible is a new top, and the seller has already addressed this with a replacement in navy blue. No specific maintenance records are mentioned, but the seller mentions it’s recently serviced and is a no-rust California car. The E36 M3 is picking up steam value-wise, but you can still get a good one – like this – for reasonable money. Get one while you can!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“3.2L S52 Engine
5-speed Manual
Limited Slip Differential
Estoril Blue exterior
Dove gray interior
Power Convertible top
ZERO rust previous California car
Clean Carfax

Just serviced

New convertible top

Modifications:
Dinan High Flow Throttle Body
Dinan Cold Air Intake
Dinan cat-back exhaust
Dinan Strut Tower Brace.“

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