After reading this entire thread, it makes me happy that I didnt get an M3. I was looking to get a 99 M3 but shit didnt work out. I guess thats for the better because I would hate to be viewed as the stereo type that these guys have proven.
Dont get me wrong, I love the M3s I have driven. I think they are great cars. As far as the E36 M3 being a "watered down" version, you couldnt be more wrong. In this class of cars, the E36 M3 is the most track ready car off the showroom floor. Also, I know for a fact that Bimmers really show their prowess above 100mph. Why? Cause you can take them over those speeds on the Autobahn.
When I was looking to get a new car, I wanted a luxurious sport coupe. I was set on a 98.5 - 99 M3 for about a year. Once it came time to finance, I could only get a loan for 2.5 years, making my payments in the $800/mo. range. Too rich for my blood. After finding this out, I looked at the G35. I am happy with my decision. Even though I love the look of an E36 dropped on some 19's tucking the rear rim just a little, I dont think there is a sexier sport coupe on the road than the G35C. Now, I didnt get my car to pick up chicks, and I dont need my car to do so, but god damn does it work(notice the sig). Every where I go, Ive got girls wanting to know about it, talk about it and to ride in it.
As far as the G35 being a better track car than the E36M3, no, its isnt, but that isnt why I got my car. I also wanted a 6spd, but to get the euro tranny put in the U.S. spec car is a PITA. I've also hear that it is damn near impossible to find someone to work on it when it needs it.
And whoever it was that said that it would cost about $10k to turbo a G35, you are pretty much right. I have checked at multiple shops, and to get mid 400-500hp, thats what you will be looking to spend, beggining to end.
For the record, Consumer Reports is the most unbiased publication ever. Their articals are made from true tests by multiple professionals. The E36 M3 does have a few black dots in its column, mostly under electrial.
