Hi,

these are the problems on my 1997 M3 2-door, as best as I can remember.

MAJOR STUFF:
new rear differential;
new driveshaft;
2 new starter motors;
2 new crankshaft sensors (one recall); new flywheel;
new DME;
~17000-27000 miles: recurring "Check Engine" light, due to leaks in fuel system. I took the car back for this about 6-8 times until it was eventually cured by replacing the liquid-vapor separator tank, the purge valve and some hoses. Of course, I had to endure the "you didn't put the gas cap on properly" insult every time.

MINOR STUFF:
new obc display;
new radio/cassette player;
squeaking clutch;
2 squeaking doors - I fixed this myself with some carefully directed WD-40 around the locks and stays
rattling steering wheel (still living with this)

At the moment, there is a "knock" from the front when I go over speed bumps. I can feel this "knock" through the steering wheel.

The car is driving really well now and I have not had any new mechanical problems in the last 2 months. I am keeping my fingers crossed, but my faith in this car has been shattered. But what else could I buy for the same money that would perform on the road as well.

Joe.