Faults:

I have had a constant problem with the top not retracting correctly. The problem has been repaired 4 to 5 times and now it does not work again.

General Comments:

The back window is made of plastic. I was told a new one would cost one hundred dollars and a new one just zips right in. Mine needs replacing. I was quoted one hundred dollars for the window and two hundred dollars for installation because of the difficulty installing a replacement. I understand the new ones have a glass rear window.

I also have replaced the brakes recently which was expensive because the rotors also have to be replace each time due to the design.

Other than the above problems I have been satisfied.

Faults:

Non BMW Alarm plagued with problems (would pack up near GSM masts preventing switching the alarm off - great in motorway service stations). Replacement unit after several visits from disbelieving dealer.

Beyond that auto-dimming rear view mirror failed around 50,000 miles, replaced under extended warranty, but would have cost over 200 pounds to replace.

General Comments:

Surprisingly quick. Outruns the basic Boxter S and on motorway runs there are few cars quicker (most Ferrari owners don't take they're investments down the fast lane).

Very confident handling with good feedback. Push the car over the line and it isn't subtle in its reaction, but I haven't lost it yet. Rear wheel drive is a joy.

Over long distances the M-Tech suspension is a pain and watch out for those speed ramps you're not driving an RV!

You can fairly comfortably cruise around, but the real car comes out when you start to put your foot down - this car really knows how to take corners - is very stable and makes you think about what you are doing.

One of the safest cars I have driven. I don't recommend you jump on the brakes as you would in most cars if you want to stop quickly unless you want to cause a pile up behind you!

Been running on Continental Contact Sports and have been getting 30k + miles which is very pleasing. Car is very well balanced I get very even wearing.

It really lives up to BMW's claim of the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' as several trips to Scotland from London and almost weekly darts to Devon account.

Motorway journeys 'over 85' will see mpg drop below 28 but still pretty good. Super unleaded increases bite and mpg just enough to justify the expense.

Even now the E36 coupe body is getting a little old it still is one good looking car.

Only question now is which BM do I get next...

Faults:

Differential started making a noise after few hundred kilometres and got replaced by the car dealer. Cost $2500.

Ball joints got replaced by the car dealer.

Traction control cable broke by the car dealer.

General Comments:

Great car. very good handling. Great traction in snow, thanks to traction control system, ASC. Big trunk space and due to being a hatchback with folding a sit I could almost fir a cow in there. Excellent build quality. Noisy on Highway. Poor thing desperately needs a 5th speed automatic. Never have used the A/M button on the console. Don't know why they make these or tip-tronic since no one uses them.