[westopher]

Its much less likely but still possible. From what I've heard, the IMS failure is MUCH more common on low milage cars that sit for extended periods of time. The best preventative maintenance for the issue is driving the car. I can really get behind that kind of maintenance. Granted I'm a porsche fanboi, but I'm also an M3 fanboi, and I think this is a pretty great trade for you. If the m3 was a coupe it may be a little less tempting, but its not that hard to find another e46 m3 vert if you regret your decision.