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  1. Five of the best cars you shouldn't scrap
  2. Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, Class on a budget
  3. Audi S4 Avant, Space and pace
  4. Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Grand old duke
  5. Jaguar XK8, Foxy old cat
  6. BMW M3, Bavarian dynamism

BMW M3, Bavarian dynamism

Through the years, BMWs 'M' products have garnered a well-justified reputation as the smart enthusiast's choice because of their combination of sublime handling dynamics and cast-iron Bavarian build integrity. A third-generation model, also known as the E36 (its BMW model designation), is now within reach on a £5,000 budget - and what a car it is.

The rear-wheel drive E36 M3 debuted in 1992 as a two-door coupé and was the first Beemer to use a six-cylinder engine - a 282bhp unit that pushed the car to 60mph in just 5.4 seconds and on to an electronically limited 155mph. A practical four-door version came later, as well as a Convertible, though there was never an E36 M3 estate (sadly). The saloon is rare, however, because only 400 were sold in the UK, each coming as standard with softer suspension to make it appeal more as a family car.

Prices vary between around £4,000 for a high mileage Convertible up to well into five figures for a rare low mileage, late '90s Evolution edition in mint condition. Like all the other premium cars on this list, longevity shouldn't be an issue if you choose wisely in terms of mileage, condition and service history - but the M3 is a proper performance car, so make sure it hasn't been thrashed, and be very wary of any 'one careful lady owner' claims.

Mark Nichol