Discussion
I’ve chopped and changed my cars at bit recently, partly due to buying a house/getting wed, partly because I get bored easily. Finally though, I think I’m (‘we’re’ – SWMBO) now happy with the fleet we have, a 330CI and Z3 3.0. The 330 is comfortable for long cruises, returns decent mpg for my commute and is spacious enough for trips to the tip/shops etc, whilst the Z is fast enough to be fun and satisfies our need for a convertible for weekend blasts.
When first purchased:
First was the usual change for fresh plates, together with removal of the front plate plinth. I also fitted a stubby aerial.
Next up was a front strut brace. The car is definitely a bit wobbly shall we say, but the brace has made a noticeable difference. Much more direct on turn in. I will definitely be fitting a rear or ‘bum’ brace as well as future suspension changes.
Wasn’t really a fan of the Style 5 wheels so purchased some tired looking Style 32s and had them refurbed in anthracite.
Although the finish was quite stunning I wasn’t too keen on the colour, being a bit too dark for my liking. So another change to 18” style 216s:
As it stands now I’m really quite happy with it. Yes it’s no go kart but it’s fun. Had the DSC kicking in quite a bit (not brave enough to turn it off yet) and the exhaust golf tee mod gives a nice little burble from the exhaust. Hopefully a few more upgrades as time/money permits.
When first purchased:
First was the usual change for fresh plates, together with removal of the front plate plinth. I also fitted a stubby aerial.
Next up was a front strut brace. The car is definitely a bit wobbly shall we say, but the brace has made a noticeable difference. Much more direct on turn in. I will definitely be fitting a rear or ‘bum’ brace as well as future suspension changes.
Wasn’t really a fan of the Style 5 wheels so purchased some tired looking Style 32s and had them refurbed in anthracite.
Although the finish was quite stunning I wasn’t too keen on the colour, being a bit too dark for my liking. So another change to 18” style 216s:
As it stands now I’m really quite happy with it. Yes it’s no go kart but it’s fun. Had the DSC kicking in quite a bit (not brave enough to turn it off yet) and the exhaust golf tee mod gives a nice little burble from the exhaust. Hopefully a few more upgrades as time/money permits.
D4VDJ said:
What is the golf tee mod? I have a Z3MC and I'd like more GGGRRRRRRR
In the exhaust one of the tail pipes has a valve that opens above 3.5K revs giving more flow and a nicer sound. Removing the vacuum pipe to the valve actuator and plugging it (A golf tee is just right, hence the name) causes it to stay open all the time so the exhaust sounds a bit nicer at low revs as well.I don't think the Z3MC has a valved exhaust to do it to though. look up the tailpipes, you'll see it if you have one.
I think the z3 has aged really well, and I have gone from having absolutely no interest in them whatsoever to now thinking they are rather cool and will definitely be a future classic. I would like one. Yours is very nice, but to be honest I am not liking the new wheels. However , the second dark grey wheels looked absolutely spot on, like they were meant for the car.
Furyblade_Lee said:
I think the z3 has aged really well, and I have gone from having absolutely no interest in them whatsoever to now thinking they are rather cool and will definitely be a future classic. I would like one. Yours is very nice, but to be honest I am not liking the new wheels. However , the second dark grey wheels looked absolutely spot on, like they were meant for the car.
Completely agree about the ageing well. I saw a 2.8 about 6 months ago and thought it looked a really pleasing shape, where previously i had dismissed them. Ha, funnily enough after I'd ordered the new wheels the 32s really grew on me. However, i had to run them on spigot rings and spacers for them to fit/look good. The new ones are direct fit and running a 255 rear tyre (as oppose to a 225) so gives a meatier look and better grip. If funds/wife allow i would like to get the 216s refurbed in a slightly darker/gunmetal colour next yr.Edited by Deutscheblonde on Thursday 28th August 22:44
JordanTurbo said:
looks good.
Personally I like the look of the dark style 32s on the silver. I'm going for some E39 style 32s (8/9 inch staggered) in the same colour on my E36 328.
Now they are a nice wheel, a lot more dished then the square 7.5s i had on mine. I did contemplate them but would have required e38 fitment and was a bit worried they may be too aggressive a fitment.Personally I like the look of the dark style 32s on the silver. I'm going for some E39 style 32s (8/9 inch staggered) in the same colour on my E36 328.
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