E92 M3 Space Grey
Discussion
My car history prior to this has been very one sided, since passing my driving test I've only really owned Hondas, (ignoring a Corsa) A standard EP3 Civic Type R, then a lightly modified premier edition EP3 (regret selling), and then more recently a Arctic Blue Integra DC5. I'm not sure exactly what it was, but I just found myself going back to the K20 engine each time. it fitted in perfectly with what I wanted out of a weekend car.
[pic]
DSC_0941 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]
The move from an EP3 to a DC5 was something I'd recommend to anyone who's in the position to be able to, the Integra always felt more of an experience each time it was driven, that along with the way it handled and delivered its power really was something special. My particular one had seen a few modifications over the years, and was currently dyno'd by EFI Runcorn at 240bhp and around 170 lb/ft - not mind blowing I know, but it would surprise a lot of people just how well it pulled.
After just a year of DC5 ownership, I was fortunately in a position to purchase a car I've always been after, the e92 M3 . A few weeks of research and checking out the online listings everyday, I still had not decided between DCT and manual. The next Saturday I arranged to view a manual low spec M3 in a local dealership.
This was my first time even in a e92 BMW, it felt good, and surprisingly modern for a car that was just over 10 years old, but after the short test drive with the manual, I instantly felt that the manual wasn't for me at the time. The decision came from a combination of 3 main things, 1. How long the gearing was, I remember at one time being at the top end of third gear and looking down to see the speedo, it was well within possible driving ban limit, this didn't feel right to me especially considering there was still another 3 gears to go! 2. Coming from the Integras gear box and its almost perfect shift I really doubt anything other than possibly an s2000 will shift as good as that. And 3. DCT downshifts...
[pic]
DSC_0870 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]
With the gearbox decided I focused my search and within a few more weeks I found myself placing a deposit down on a 2009 Space Grey M3 with Fox Red leather. The price coupled with the condition and full BMW service history all appealed too me, and a spec that I was looking for too included EDC, DCT, Hi-fi Audio, privacy glass, and carbon M-Performance front corner splitters and some other additional options.
I arranged to go see the car with a mate the following Saturday. After what felt like a lifetime the day finally came, my mate drove us down to see the car in his e92 M3, I knew from that passenger ride that i'd chose the right gearbox for me.
Fast forward a few hours and I was driving my newly purchased M3 back up to North Wales with a massive grin on my face as we made our way along the dual carriageways of the A5. The majority of the journey was spent either adjusting my seat position, adjusting the heaters or playing catch up to my mates M3, but it was brilliant.
[pic]
DSC_0792 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]
Now 2 months into ownership, I still grin when driving it!
So, what have I done so far?
I've put 2 new rear tyres on it, went for Pilot sport 2's in the end, as the fronts are PS2's and I believe these were the original tyres for the car?
I've insured it, which unsurprisingly is not cheap for a 22 year old!
And I've driven it whenever I have had the chance too, trying to make the most out of the good weather before winter.
I am going to try keep this thread as up to date as I can after being a serial stalker for quite some time on here, particularly following threads such as RS Grants E92 M3 Competition Pack (a contributor to my decision of going for space grey!)
[pic]
DSC_0832 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]
[pic]
DSC_0814 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]
Attended Cars and Coffee Liverpool meet on Sunday morning, always a good turnout, with a good variety of car attending.
Was a bonus to have these 3 in a line up for a photo too e92 M3, M4 CS and M5 Competition
[pic]
CSC_0911 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]
[pic]
DSC_0941 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]The move from an EP3 to a DC5 was something I'd recommend to anyone who's in the position to be able to, the Integra always felt more of an experience each time it was driven, that along with the way it handled and delivered its power really was something special. My particular one had seen a few modifications over the years, and was currently dyno'd by EFI Runcorn at 240bhp and around 170 lb/ft - not mind blowing I know, but it would surprise a lot of people just how well it pulled.
After just a year of DC5 ownership, I was fortunately in a position to purchase a car I've always been after, the e92 M3 . A few weeks of research and checking out the online listings everyday, I still had not decided between DCT and manual. The next Saturday I arranged to view a manual low spec M3 in a local dealership.
This was my first time even in a e92 BMW, it felt good, and surprisingly modern for a car that was just over 10 years old, but after the short test drive with the manual, I instantly felt that the manual wasn't for me at the time. The decision came from a combination of 3 main things, 1. How long the gearing was, I remember at one time being at the top end of third gear and looking down to see the speedo, it was well within possible driving ban limit, this didn't feel right to me especially considering there was still another 3 gears to go! 2. Coming from the Integras gear box and its almost perfect shift I really doubt anything other than possibly an s2000 will shift as good as that. And 3. DCT downshifts...
[pic]
DSC_0870 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]With the gearbox decided I focused my search and within a few more weeks I found myself placing a deposit down on a 2009 Space Grey M3 with Fox Red leather. The price coupled with the condition and full BMW service history all appealed too me, and a spec that I was looking for too included EDC, DCT, Hi-fi Audio, privacy glass, and carbon M-Performance front corner splitters and some other additional options.
I arranged to go see the car with a mate the following Saturday. After what felt like a lifetime the day finally came, my mate drove us down to see the car in his e92 M3, I knew from that passenger ride that i'd chose the right gearbox for me.
Fast forward a few hours and I was driving my newly purchased M3 back up to North Wales with a massive grin on my face as we made our way along the dual carriageways of the A5. The majority of the journey was spent either adjusting my seat position, adjusting the heaters or playing catch up to my mates M3, but it was brilliant.
[pic]
DSC_0792 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]Now 2 months into ownership, I still grin when driving it!
So, what have I done so far?
I've put 2 new rear tyres on it, went for Pilot sport 2's in the end, as the fronts are PS2's and I believe these were the original tyres for the car?
I've insured it, which unsurprisingly is not cheap for a 22 year old!
And I've driven it whenever I have had the chance too, trying to make the most out of the good weather before winter.
I am going to try keep this thread as up to date as I can after being a serial stalker for quite some time on here, particularly following threads such as RS Grants E92 M3 Competition Pack (a contributor to my decision of going for space grey!)
[pic]
DSC_0832 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic][pic]
DSC_0814 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]Attended Cars and Coffee Liverpool meet on Sunday morning, always a good turnout, with a good variety of car attending.
Was a bonus to have these 3 in a line up for a photo too e92 M3, M4 CS and M5 Competition
[pic]
CSC_0911 by Dan Davies, on Flickr[/pic]dxbtiger said:
Are these reliable by and large?
Anything common to look out for?
Looks well in that colour.
Rod bearings (or main bearings in U.K. talk) oil starvation which is the same issue in the V10 version. Anything common to look out for?
Looks well in that colour.
How common this is who knows but it’s highly likely more prevelant on those cars whose owners carry out massive burnouts - there was a thread recently whereby a big burnout on a lovely V8 M3 but then the engine let out fire and the conrod was 50 foot away on the floor with oil all over the place
DanDavies said:
My car history prior to this has been very one sided, since passing my driving test I've only really owned Hondas, (ignoring a Corsa) A standard EP3 Civic Type R, then a lightly modified premier edition EP3 (regret selling), and then more recently a Arctic Blue Integra DC5. I'm not sure exactly what it was, but I just found myself going back to the K20 engine each time. it fitted in perfectly with what I wanted out of a weekend car.
The move from an EP3 to a DC5 was something I'd recommend to anyone who's in the position to be able to, the Integra always felt more of an experience each time it was driven, that along with the way it handled and delivered its power really was something special. My particular one had seen a few modifications over the years, and was currently dyno'd by EFI Runcorn at 240bhp and around 170 lb/ft - not mind blowing I know, but it would surprise a lot of people just how well it pulled.
After just a year of DC5 ownership, I was fortunately in a position to purchase a car I've always been after, the e92 M3 . A few weeks of research and checking out the online listings everyday, I still had not decided between DCT and manual. The next Saturday I arranged to view a manual low spec M3 in a local dealership.
This was my first time even in a e92 BMW, it felt good, and surprisingly modern for a car that was just over 10 years old, but after the short test drive with the manual, I instantly felt that the manual wasn't for me at the time. The decision came from a combination of 3 main things, 1. How long the gearing was, I remember at one time being at the top end of third gear and looking down to see the speedo, it was well within possible driving ban limit, this didn't feel right to me especially considering there was still another 3 gears to go! 2. Coming from the Integras gear box and its almost perfect shift I really doubt anything other than possibly an s2000 will shift as good as that. And 3. DCT downshifts...
With the gearbox decided I focused my search and within a few more weeks I found myself placing a deposit down on a 2009 Space Grey M3 with Fox Red leather. The price coupled with the condition and full BMW service history all appealed too me, and a spec that I was looking for too included EDC, DCT, Hi-fi Audio, privacy glass, and carbon M-Performance front corner splitters and some other additional options.
I arranged to go see the car with a mate the following Saturday. After what felt like a lifetime the day finally came, my mate drove us down to see the car in his e92 M3, I knew from that passenger ride that i'd chose the right gearbox for me.
Fast forward a few hours and I was driving my newly purchased M3 back up to North Wales with a massive grin on my face as we made our way along the dual carriageways of the A5. The majority of the journey was spent either adjusting my seat position, adjusting the heaters or playing catch up to my mates M3, but it was brilliant.
Now 2 months into ownership, I still grin when driving it!
So, what have I done so far?
I've put 2 new rear tyres on it, went for Pilot sport 2's in the end, as the fronts are PS2's and I believe these were the original tyres for the car?
I've insured it, which unsurprisingly is not cheap for a 22 year old!
And I've driven it whenever I have had the chance too, trying to make the most out of the good weather before winter.
I am going to try keep this thread as up to date as I can after being a serial stalker for quite some time on here, particularly following threads such as RS Grants E92 M3 Competition Pack (a contributor to my decision of going for space grey!)
Attended Cars and Coffee Liverpool meet on Sunday morning, always a good turnout, with a good variety of car attending.
Was a bonus to have these 3 in a line up for a photo too e92 M3, M4 CS and M5 Competition
Lovely car, congrats! I think that's 3 of us in readers car's with Space grey E92 M3 now. The move from an EP3 to a DC5 was something I'd recommend to anyone who's in the position to be able to, the Integra always felt more of an experience each time it was driven, that along with the way it handled and delivered its power really was something special. My particular one had seen a few modifications over the years, and was currently dyno'd by EFI Runcorn at 240bhp and around 170 lb/ft - not mind blowing I know, but it would surprise a lot of people just how well it pulled.
After just a year of DC5 ownership, I was fortunately in a position to purchase a car I've always been after, the e92 M3 . A few weeks of research and checking out the online listings everyday, I still had not decided between DCT and manual. The next Saturday I arranged to view a manual low spec M3 in a local dealership.
This was my first time even in a e92 BMW, it felt good, and surprisingly modern for a car that was just over 10 years old, but after the short test drive with the manual, I instantly felt that the manual wasn't for me at the time. The decision came from a combination of 3 main things, 1. How long the gearing was, I remember at one time being at the top end of third gear and looking down to see the speedo, it was well within possible driving ban limit, this didn't feel right to me especially considering there was still another 3 gears to go! 2. Coming from the Integras gear box and its almost perfect shift I really doubt anything other than possibly an s2000 will shift as good as that. And 3. DCT downshifts...
With the gearbox decided I focused my search and within a few more weeks I found myself placing a deposit down on a 2009 Space Grey M3 with Fox Red leather. The price coupled with the condition and full BMW service history all appealed too me, and a spec that I was looking for too included EDC, DCT, Hi-fi Audio, privacy glass, and carbon M-Performance front corner splitters and some other additional options.
I arranged to go see the car with a mate the following Saturday. After what felt like a lifetime the day finally came, my mate drove us down to see the car in his e92 M3, I knew from that passenger ride that i'd chose the right gearbox for me.
Fast forward a few hours and I was driving my newly purchased M3 back up to North Wales with a massive grin on my face as we made our way along the dual carriageways of the A5. The majority of the journey was spent either adjusting my seat position, adjusting the heaters or playing catch up to my mates M3, but it was brilliant.
Now 2 months into ownership, I still grin when driving it!
So, what have I done so far?
I've put 2 new rear tyres on it, went for Pilot sport 2's in the end, as the fronts are PS2's and I believe these were the original tyres for the car?
I've insured it, which unsurprisingly is not cheap for a 22 year old!
And I've driven it whenever I have had the chance too, trying to make the most out of the good weather before winter.
I am going to try keep this thread as up to date as I can after being a serial stalker for quite some time on here, particularly following threads such as RS Grants E92 M3 Competition Pack (a contributor to my decision of going for space grey!)
Attended Cars and Coffee Liverpool meet on Sunday morning, always a good turnout, with a good variety of car attending.
Was a bonus to have these 3 in a line up for a photo too e92 M3, M4 CS and M5 Competition
DCT was also the only way for me too, i know the manual and DCT both have the same power but the DCT cars just feel so much faster and 'urgent'... and there are the downshifts.. not sure i could ever tire of approaching a roundabout in 4th, double clicking down and hearing the V8 woof as it blips the throttle shifting in to 2nd 
I've had the 1.75 exhaust mod done which gives the exhaust the volume that it lacks as std. Also, get the GTS mapping on the gearbox done, this speeds up the shifts and makes the auto mode less dim witted.
Tires, i've stuck to PS2's.. been through a whole set now in only 5k miles, but then i have had it on track so to be expected. (These car's are in their element on track btw!) If i had a bigger budget i would go for Pilot Sport Cup 2's as they are that bit stickier... sometimes the rear end can be a bit too loose when pressing on hard, it's fun.. but not the quickest way around a corner!
Drive it and enjoy it!! Mine has been serviced by BMW and i've had no issues. I expect to have to do the throttle actuators at some point as they all go on these (rebuild.org for replacement parts) Other than that, ignore the scare stories about rod bearings.. failures have only happened in something like 0.1% of the total amount built.. it's all been overhyped. Just make sure you warm the car up properly and get around 90 degrees on the oil temp gauge before going hard on it.. and keep up the servicing.
This is mine. near identical to your's bar the Carbon spoiler and colour coded mirrors.
Edited by Jez m on Wednesday 31st October 09:18
Interesting read. E92 M3 is still one of my favourite looking cars, really if beautiful. RS Grant's thread made me take the plunge on one too, been one of my goal cars to own. Sold mine on a whim after getting pissed off with a vibration problem caused by s
t replica wheels.
I've gone in the opposite direction.... E92 M3 to DC5.
2018-10-28_09-38-38 by Michael Goodwin, on Flickr
DSCF7014 by Michael Goodwin, on Flickr
I would have another M3. but only with the view to install Ohlins with an expensive geo setup. Plus primary cats out with a remap. I would also look to remove some of the weight in the car too. Not sure it really worked well out the box, I wanted more from the car every time I drove it.
PS. I put PS4S tyres on it and it ruined it for me. Part of the fun of the E92 was putting it in MDM and coming out of a corner slightly sideways. Made the car fun when it wasnt possible to really open up the S65. The PS4S gripped like hell and I couldnt unsettle the rear without some serious persuasion.
I find the DC5 more of an event to drive. The E92 was very heavy and not really that engaging when I look back. The DC5 weighing in at 1200kg or so, having a revvy engine and short gear ratios just works so well.
t replica wheels.I've gone in the opposite direction.... E92 M3 to DC5.
2018-10-28_09-38-38 by Michael Goodwin, on FlickrDSCF7014 by Michael Goodwin, on FlickrI would have another M3. but only with the view to install Ohlins with an expensive geo setup. Plus primary cats out with a remap. I would also look to remove some of the weight in the car too. Not sure it really worked well out the box, I wanted more from the car every time I drove it.
PS. I put PS4S tyres on it and it ruined it for me. Part of the fun of the E92 was putting it in MDM and coming out of a corner slightly sideways. Made the car fun when it wasnt possible to really open up the S65. The PS4S gripped like hell and I couldnt unsettle the rear without some serious persuasion.
I find the DC5 more of an event to drive. The E92 was very heavy and not really that engaging when I look back. The DC5 weighing in at 1200kg or so, having a revvy engine and short gear ratios just works so well.
I wondered why my ears were burning!! 
Nice progression to M3 ownership there, always liked the DC5s but never actually taken the plunge on one because I wouldn't want to ruin it on track.. so going for a cheaper EP3 and putting a few mods on always seemed the better option for me. Nice to see the Blue and Red ones here, refreshing change from the more common CW cars.
Your new M3 looks awesome, but then I would say that wouldn't I..
I would agree with Mike regarding the MPS4S tyres taking a little of the fun out of the car. They're phenomenal things if grip sits miles above all other factors in your decision making, but if you like the rear of the car to move around a little when out for a blast then they're not for you... that said, I was SO glad that I fitted them for my Spa/Nurburgring trip last month where they earned their keep admirably in the wet weather.
Nice progression to M3 ownership there, always liked the DC5s but never actually taken the plunge on one because I wouldn't want to ruin it on track.. so going for a cheaper EP3 and putting a few mods on always seemed the better option for me. Nice to see the Blue and Red ones here, refreshing change from the more common CW cars.
Your new M3 looks awesome, but then I would say that wouldn't I..
I would agree with Mike regarding the MPS4S tyres taking a little of the fun out of the car. They're phenomenal things if grip sits miles above all other factors in your decision making, but if you like the rear of the car to move around a little when out for a blast then they're not for you... that said, I was SO glad that I fitted them for my Spa/Nurburgring trip last month where they earned their keep admirably in the wet weather.
Beautiful cars mate. I've always had Honda's myself - had an integra and currently daily an ep3.
I'm seriously thinking about an upgrade myself, I'm not worried about fuel economy or anything like that because I only will use my car at the weekends now. I've been looking a while, and just keep coming back to the e92 m3. How does it compare to your old integra as an all rounder?
I'm seriously thinking about an upgrade myself, I'm not worried about fuel economy or anything like that because I only will use my car at the weekends now. I've been looking a while, and just keep coming back to the e92 m3. How does it compare to your old integra as an all rounder?
Oh god another beautiful E92 M3, this isnt helping me!!!! Its a stunning car fair play to you, I owned an S2000 GT and can vouch for gearshift - the most mechanical shift I have ever experienced but I will also be searching out a DCT car when the Merc sells.
Be sure to keep the thread updated, it inspires me and gives me ideas for when one lands on my drive!
Si
Be sure to keep the thread updated, it inspires me and gives me ideas for when one lands on my drive!
Si
Please avoid fitting chav spec black grilles!
By way of explanation: As a car person you are either somebody that cares about how their car looks or you are not. If you want to dress up how a car looks then fine.
Not everybody will agree with this...
Edit: Reworded to be slightly more diplomatic.
By way of explanation: As a car person you are either somebody that cares about how their car looks or you are not. If you want to dress up how a car looks then fine.
Not everybody will agree with this...
Edit: Reworded to be slightly more diplomatic.
Edited by Tommie38 on Wednesday 31st October 22:21
Tommie38 said:
Please avoid fitting chav spec black grilles!
By way of explanation: As a car person you are either somebody that cares about how their car looks or you are not. If you want to dress up how a car looks then fine.
Not everybody will agree with this...
Edit: Reworded to be slightly more diplomatic.
Would normally agree.. but these look terrible with standard chrome ring grille. Especially after a few years when the chrome ring starts to delaminate and look like its peeling. By way of explanation: As a car person you are either somebody that cares about how their car looks or you are not. If you want to dress up how a car looks then fine.
Not everybody will agree with this...
Edit: Reworded to be slightly more diplomatic.
Edited by Tommie38 on Wednesday 31st October 22:21
Chav spec = Blue and Red M stripes on the grille FYI.
Thanks for all the positive comments!
. I hope to do a more in depth review after I've had more time and carried out some minor mods. I think over winter is a very good time to purchase one too, also check out M3Cutters if you haven't already.
In regards to the chrome grilles - genuine gloss black one are on the list of items to buy
I just think it looks a lot better with the carbon corner splitters and the back bonnet vents.
Both outstanding recalls carried out yesterday by Halliwell Jones Chester so am now recall free.
Jez m said:
I've had the 1.75 exhaust mod done which gives the exhaust the volume that it lacks as std. Also, get the GTS mapping on the gearbox done, this speeds up the shifts and makes the auto mode less dim witted.
Thanks Jez, have actually been searching for a modded back box for a while now myself, ideally looking for 2.0. Fortunately both actuators have been replaced by Park Lane BMW just last year so hopefully no problems from them now.MikeGoodwin said:
I find the DC5 more of an event to drive. The E92 was very heavy and not really that engaging when I look back. The DC5 weighing in at 1200kg or so, having a revvy engine and short gear ratios just works so well.
Lovely DC5! Can see exactly where your coming from with this, one of the biggest things I've noticed so far is just how much heavier the m3 is through corners and under braking, but the positives out weigh all that for now Larratron said:
How does it compare to your old integra as an all rounder?
As an all rounder they're very similar so far, both a super practical when you need to them to be and can become a totally different animals when you want them too. Obviously consumables and maintenance costs are significantly more expensive but I knew that before purchasing. Like you I only use this on weekends and for the miles that I actually do it does work out quite expensive so I try ignore that and do as many miles possible in it . I hope to do a more in depth review after I've had more time and carried out some minor mods. I think over winter is a very good time to purchase one too, also check out M3Cutters if you haven't already.In regards to the chrome grilles - genuine gloss black one are on the list of items to buy
I just think it looks a lot better with the carbon corner splitters and the back bonnet vents.
Both outstanding recalls carried out yesterday by Halliwell Jones Chester so am now recall free.
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