Discussion
I have a real (somewhat irrational, according to my wife) desire for a Z3M Coupe – and there are a couple or three nice looking ones in the classifieds. I’ve always loved the styling and it is a classic in my eyes.
So PH collective, what do I need to know. Is the S54 worth that much more than an S50 for instance? Are there any particular weak points or common problems I need to keep an eye out for?
Are there any essential upgrades that should have been done? Or should I be looking for the most original car I can find? Garage Queen or well used Hack?
The car would simply be a weekend toy, something to just drive when I am in the mood and I might even venture on track in it occasionally. A trip to the Le Mans Classic would probably be on the cards as well. If I buy one it will be to keep for a while.
I’ve owned quite a few BMWs before, but nothing of this ‘vintage’.
I read the Z3M vs Z4M thread, but didn’t want to hijack it with specific questions, so thought it best to start a new one.
Am I going to regret the purchase or am I about to have my eyes opened to an up-to-now unexplored world of BMW happiness!
These took my fancy – any thoughts or does anyone know the cars?
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4240116.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4236148.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4231719.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4136557.htm
So PH collective, what do I need to know. Is the S54 worth that much more than an S50 for instance? Are there any particular weak points or common problems I need to keep an eye out for?
Are there any essential upgrades that should have been done? Or should I be looking for the most original car I can find? Garage Queen or well used Hack?
The car would simply be a weekend toy, something to just drive when I am in the mood and I might even venture on track in it occasionally. A trip to the Le Mans Classic would probably be on the cards as well. If I buy one it will be to keep for a while.
I’ve owned quite a few BMWs before, but nothing of this ‘vintage’.
I read the Z3M vs Z4M thread, but didn’t want to hijack it with specific questions, so thought it best to start a new one.
Am I going to regret the purchase or am I about to have my eyes opened to an up-to-now unexplored world of BMW happiness!
These took my fancy – any thoughts or does anyone know the cars?
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4240116.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4236148.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4231719.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/4136557.htm
Owning S50 and S54 engined cars I can confirm there is no major or dramatic difference. Slight yes but not much.
Sure people who own the far rarer S54 will say its more reliable, more powerful etc etc but in reality a good S50 is hardly any different in feel from the S54. The latter has drive by wire throttle where the S50 has a cable and this helps the S54 feel a little more eager.
Regardless of what engine you get, in standard trim they are very old school in the driving experience and many modern hot hatch will be all over it on UK roads.
If it's an itch you need to scratch then start out on the S50 as they are more plentiful, cheaper to buy and just as reliable as long as its been serviced well.
Oh, they can have a tendency to rip the diff ear mount and split open the boot floor. Read up on how to check this out
Sure people who own the far rarer S54 will say its more reliable, more powerful etc etc but in reality a good S50 is hardly any different in feel from the S54. The latter has drive by wire throttle where the S50 has a cable and this helps the S54 feel a little more eager.
Regardless of what engine you get, in standard trim they are very old school in the driving experience and many modern hot hatch will be all over it on UK roads.
If it's an itch you need to scratch then start out on the S50 as they are more plentiful, cheaper to buy and just as reliable as long as its been serviced well.
Oh, they can have a tendency to rip the diff ear mount and split open the boot floor. Read up on how to check this out
As somebody (famously) said on z3mcoupe.com. If you buy an S50 instead of an S54 you will hate yourself ......
Ha ha.
Just buy the best example you can afford. Don't get anal about mods or colours. They are up to 14 years old now so it should be condition , condition and condition. If you buy a good car (generally one from the z3m forum) that has been looked after you will have some of the best cheap motoring you can imagine.
Man up. Do it.
Ha ha.
Just buy the best example you can afford. Don't get anal about mods or colours. They are up to 14 years old now so it should be condition , condition and condition. If you buy a good car (generally one from the z3m forum) that has been looked after you will have some of the best cheap motoring you can imagine.
Man up. Do it.
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