Need help buying a used F80/82

[berk001]

I've decided to upgrade to an M car. My budget is around $38K, but can be manipulated. I want a car with around 35K miles.

I want an M3, but 2016 models are significantly more expensive than 2015, and I want the 2016 because of the lighting upgrades. The M4 didn't get the upgrade until 2018, which even preowned is too expensive for me right now. So my M3 preference is 2016+, while for the M4 I don't really have a year preference, but 2016 is also my first desire.

So here are my questions:

- Is it a smart decision to get the car with the limitations I have? Clean history even if it has no records?

- If not, what should I be looking to get based on my budget? Or what is the price I should be expecting for my preferences?

- Most importantly, when I find a car that fits my situation, how should I inspect it? I'm pretty familiar with the E9x, but not really familiar with the F3x/F8x so I really need some help on this one.

[Keca10]

Congrats on the decision to get an M3. Is your question if $38k is reasonable price?

[2011zx10R]

2016 M3 for $38k low miles

I've seen one advertised at this price but it was at a body shop and needed $10k+ in repairs

[pikkagtr]

Not with that mileage
I'd adjust budget to about 45$k and you'll open up more doors
Also check a larger area and be willing to drive
Sf bay area Craig's has a ton available

[berk001]

i just talked with one of my friends who used to sell cars and he asked if my concern for the budget is the monthly payment or the total loan amount and i told him it was the monthly payment. he said i can get a higher loan and pay a high monthly payment and refinance it to lower it every year or so is that possible ? or is it safe like hard inquires and all that ? if so i will go over 40k

[alex2364]

Sounds like you can't afford the car. Like someone else said, you're going to need $45-50k.

[berk001]

Originally Posted by alex2364

Sounds like you can't afford the car. Like someone else said, you're going to need $45-50k.

Just about right. I am not going to do the same mistake i did with my first car. I’ll wait 2-3 months to put more money down and get something worthy. Thank you all

[papasmurf_m3]

Originally Posted by berk001

Just about right. I am not going to do the same mistake i did with my first car. I’ll wait 2-3 months to put more money down and get something worthy. Thank you all

Smartest response I've heard in awhile. You'll get there. GL!

[berk001]

Originally Posted by AlphaPro_F80

Smartest response I've heard in awhile. You'll get there. GL!

hahaha thank you