To all those ordering without a test drive/pricing/having seen it IRL

[swamp2]

Does this cause you no, a bit of, or immense concern? Sure we all know the car is fabulous and we probably know the price within a few $k as well. I just can't see ordering a car especially one at this price without MINIMALLY two of the three things mentioned in the title.

Very curious as to your thoughts, deliberations, conclusions, etc.

[masmole]

Originally Posted by swamp2

Does this cause you no, a bit of, or immense concern? Sure we all know the car is fabulous and we probably know the price within a few $k as well. I just can't see ordering a car especially one at this price without MINIMALLY two of the three things mentioned in the title.

Very curious as to your thoughts, deliberations, conclusions, etc.

To date, I've ordered and/or taken delivery of four cars "blindly" without ever taking a test-drive: SLK55 AMG, E60 M5, Audi RS4, and now the M3. So far, at least for the first three, I've not had any regrets because they've all met my expectations and then some. Loved all those cars. Since I'm on a roll when it comes to picking some winners, why not keep going? With cars of this caliber and sporting focus, it's really hard to go wrong. And if anything, out of all the german manufacturers, I tend to trust BMW the most to deliver the goods.

[OzStriker]

In the olden days I would agree swamp.

But with this thing called the innernetz I believe there is enough independent opinion, media and discussion to make such a call these days.

[Voltigeur]

I have bought 1 car 'blind' - and was fortunate with that. But before I commit this time I want to see some colours, and drive the MT and M-DCT versions. I also want to drive some competition - so I'm expecting to take my time to minimize any potential for 'buyer's remorse'.

Bottom line: you take a huge hit the minute you drive it off of the lot, do you really need to take that risk if you decide this car is not what you expected? Or that you later drive a 997 or similar and wish you had reserved judgment.

Hey, for those that are married: didn't you try before you buy (bought)? 'Divorce' is expensive ...

[Voltigeur]

Originally Posted by OzStriker

In the olden days I would agree swamp.

But with this thing called the innernetz I believe there is enough independent opinion, media and discussion to make such a call these days.

Never got a bum steer from an internet review? I have.

[kham619]

Originally Posted by Voltigeur

Hey, for those that are married: didn't you try before you buy (bought)? 'Divorce' is expensive ...

Hahah, divorce is expensive and that prenup doesn't cover as well as full coverage insurance.

[lucid]

Originally Posted by swamp2

Does this cause you no, a bit of, or immense concern? Sure we all know the car is fabulous and we probably know the price within a few $k as well. I just can't see ordering a car especially one at this price without MINIMALLY two of the three things mentioned in the title.

Very curious as to your thoughts, deliberations, conclusions, etc.

I share your concern. You know my feelings on that one. I've been ranting for the past 48 hours...

[apw2607]

I went over to Germany for that M3 driving experience thing .... so decided then that I definitly wanted to order one when I got back to the USA.

The M-DCT delay, lack of info bugs me a bit ... but I figure I'll go with manual now .. and then in a couple of years (if I still like the car, and there's nothing else out that I like) would order a M-DCT car.

[swamp2]

Good inputs guys, thanks.

How about some comments from our UK owners?

[VictorH]

I agree with Swamp2, I would never buy a car without a test drive. Actually, my preference is to drive the vehicle at least twice. I've driven it once and liked it, but I have another brand to test before deciding.

[Epacy]

Originally Posted by VictorH

I agree with Swamp2, I would never buy a car without a test drive. Actually, my preference is to drive the vehicle at least twice. I've driven it once and liked it, but I have another brand to test before deciding.

I know. The new Tiburon is a close second. Best to get a drive in it.

[GregW / Oregon]

Originally Posted by swamp2

Does this cause you no, a bit of, or immense concern? Sure we all know the car is fabulous and we probably know the price within a few $k as well. I just can't see ordering a car especially one at this price without MINIMALLY two of the three things mentioned in the title.

Very curious as to your thoughts, deliberations, conclusions, etc.

No concern here. I have the E46 as a base reference, and since I've been following the development of the E92 passionately for 4 years or whatever, I'm confident it will be the right fit for me. I purchased my first new BMW 35 years ago and they've never diappointed.

[Epacy]

Originally Posted by GregW / Oregon

I purchased my first new BMW 35 years ago and they've never diappointed.

Wow!! I haven't even been alive that long.

[eclipsisNA]

I've seen the E92 M3 in person (LA Auto Show) and being an E46 M3 owner, I'm certain BMW will come through with a masterwork.

[OC ///M]

Originally Posted by swamp2

Does this cause you no, a bit of, or immense concern? Sure we all know the car is fabulous and we probably know the price within a few $k as well. I just can't see ordering a car especially one at this price without MINIMALLY two of the three things mentioned in the title.

Very curious as to your thoughts, deliberations, conclusions, etc.

Good topic for a thread Swamp...

I agree with OZStriker; "the internetz" has changed how these factors weigh in....

No Test Drive: No Problem.
After watching Autocar UK's Chris Harris & his N'ring run as well as the Top Gear review, I'm sure I won't be dissapointed.

Seeing it IRL: No problem.
With the standard e92 as a baseline, for me it only gets better!

No Pricing: ...Is a Problem.
My decision to purchase an M3 is set in stone...but I'll break out the 90lb jackhammer if that MSRP is over a certain threshold.

[Voltigeur]

Originally Posted by OC kid

Good topic for a thread Swamp...

No Test Drive: No Problem.
After watching Autocar UK's Chris Harris & his N'ring run as well as the Top Gear review, I'm sure I won't be dissapointed.

Is a great topic!

It's really very personal, eh. I have also seen Chris Harris' drive and TG - very persuasive. These have made me consider the M3 as a valid competitor to a 997 / Cayman S. But I still need to feel the steering, ride/handling, hear that engine etc to place an order in the order system ...

[OC ///M]

Originally Posted by Voltigeur

It's really very personal, eh....made me consider the M3 as a valid competitor to a 997 / Cayman S....

Another factor weighing heavily on my decision was BMW's 4 yr/ 50k "free" service policy...something Porsche can not touch. How much does an oil change & break job run you in a P-car?

You're right Voltigeur, it is very personal...
For me, it's really all about a balance between looks, performance, and cost of ownership; all sharing equal importance. I'm banking that the M3 will deliver on all three.

So far, our friends on this board across the pond have had many positive reviews, most stating that the car has met or exceeded their expectations.

[Saturn]

After months of online research/checking the car out at dealers etc, I bought my STi without a test drive. Not something I would likely have done in the past, but I have had no regrets whatsoever. I believe the M3 will yield a similar payoff.

[SMSgt B]

I've seen it, sat in it, and started it right in the dealer but haven't driven it. I am saving that experience for when mine comes.

Just thinking back when I bought my E46 M3, hell I only looked at it ... never even sat in it until the paperwork was completed and keys in hand.

[sayemthree]

I have seen it at the LA auto show. Pricing will be out before I order. I WOULD order one without a test drive at all. although I will probably get into a demo afeter they are out.