Non runflats on an E46 M3 and handling advice?

[gav2612]

Have now been enjoying my 2001 E46 M3 for around a month. While IMHO it is quicker than my old 996 911 in a straight line, the handling(particularly in slower corners) and the ride quality arent up to that of the 911. Not trying to be down on the M3, as it is a great car(and im on a m power forum) and obviously different from the 911 but just looking to see if I can improve things a bit

I am going to go for eibach Pro kit springs to try and reduce the body roll a bit, and am now considering different tyre options. The car doesnt seem to lack front end grip but the rear seems to have more traction issues. The rears are currently 255 19 inch run flat dunlop sports. Any one running wider rears on 19" alloys and if so what sizes and any improvements does it make? Would possibly a different brand from the dunlops provide more grip?

Also can anyone running non runflats comment on differences in grip and ride quality? The current runflats are bone jarring at times

I will also be going for a four wheel alignment after fitting the springs to make sure that area is A ok

[Spokey]

I don't think an E46 M3 should be on runflats. I'd be very worried if it was.

Put it on Michelin PS/2's - they work very well on the E46 M3. Very well indeed.

[NickXX]

Wow, the e46 didn't come with run-flats as an option so that is probably the cause of your problems!

Try some Michelin PS2 or Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta (both non-RFT) on it with an alignment - should transform the handling.

As for tyre sizes:

Stock 18" tires are 225/45/18 Front and 255/40/18 Rear and 225/40/19 Front and 255/35/19 Rear with optional 19" wheels.

[whitechief]

As has been said, it should not be on run flat tyres. Both mine had Michelin Pilot Sport 2, which were fantastic.

[md23]

No M car should be shod in runflats as above. Runflats are for your 320d (and yes the ride is shocking on them)!

[Hawmaws]

I had an e46 M3 for a while and got rid of it eventually due to the jittery ride quality, even on decent tyres. Made bits of me wobble that I didn't want to be aware of!

Currently drive a Boxster and an M sport e39 and the ride quality is much better on both.

[gav2612]

Sorry for the confusion. Assumed they were runflats as it has the button to cancel the runflat warning in the centre console next to the DSC button. Also doesnt come with a spare as per my wifes old Mini with runflats. Will possibly try a different brand of tyres on the rear to see if that helps the amount of grip. Anyone comment on running on eibach pro kit springs or different anti roll bars? Have read on other forums that 265's on the rear may be possible too

[Crusoe]

The tyre pressure warning button is still there even though they are not run flat tyres.

The 18s are a nicer option if you want better traction and a better ride IMO