I have looked at E46 M3's as well which I have never felt a connection with not sure why but the S54 is certainly a more exciting engine than a S52
I have looked into Z3M Roadsters as well but not sure if id like it as much even though it has the M3 drivetrain
I think getting a E36 M3 is just something I need to get off my bucketlist even if the car might not justify the price.