Tell me about my new E36 please....

[m3f_cobracrazy]

I drove a used $20,000 Boxter and hated it, then looked at an M3 and became obsessed instantly. The minute I got behind the wheel I knew there was only one touring car for my garage.



Two weeks later.



I just purchased a convertible M3 1998. It has under 40,000 miles. I'm going to burst with excitement. I know they have special seats, motor, and front bumper. What I'd like is a clear breakdown of exactly what details make this car different than a 3-series. I sure love it but I'm rusty on the exact details as to why it is so special.



Thanks guys.



Adam Crabtree

[m3f_Stinky]

Welcome to the club...

http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=15

Should answer your question.

[m3f_Edgy_592e912c16]

Welcome Cobra -- there is so much to learn! I was in your shoes two years ago, I bought a fantastic car, then had to learn about it. :roll:



Stinky just sent you the best link, also check www.eurospeed.org (http://www.eurospeed.org)

[m3f_fcocca_b87080e333]

The major difference in my opinion is the beefy M3 front brake components. The two-piece BMW Euro rotor I replaced the stock ones I warped have not disappointed. The US M3 package includes a sport-tuned suspension and engine, then cosmetic stuff like 17-inch M-style rime, smaller side-mirrors, M3 badging on deck-lid, front doors and doorsills, shift lever, dash gauge plate and tri-color leather stripes on seat-backs or headrests. Oh, some blue & red stitching on the steering wheel and the e-brake handle. M-Power valve cover and ///M logo on the oil-filler cap. I enjoy the E36 M3 so much that I bought a second one instead of a used Porsche 911.

You'll probably find the definitive differences in the Bentley publications hardcover (yellow?) on the 3-series.

I drove a used $20,000 Boxter and hated it, then looked at an M3 and became obsessed instantly. The minute I got behind the wheel I knew there was only one touring car for my garage.



Two weeks later.



I just purchased a convertible M3 1998. It has under 40,000 miles. I'm going to burst with excitement. I know they have special seats, motor, and front bumper. What I'd like is a clear breakdown of exactly what details make this car different than a 3-series. I sure love it but I'm rusty on the exact details as to why it is so special.



Thanks guys.



Adam Crabtree

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

I went from an e21 to an M3. Quite a jump I would say. But I was able to test drive many numbers of m3s due to work before hand, so before I bought mine, I knew what I was in for, fun fun fun fun fun... etc....

[m3f_tlvanden]

Welcome!



Just can't seem to wipe the smile from my face every time I take the wheel.



Watch out...the mods come fast and furious.

[m3f_JeffN]

I think the biggest variations are the brakes, aluminum control arms and the tuning of the suspension not mention the motor tweaks. Enjoy it.

[m3f_cobracrazy]

Thanks A lot guys. The link was quit useful too.



My M3 convertible is in SanFransicso and has less than 40,000miles. I fly down friday and will drive it up HWY-1 an 101 along the coast till I reach Seattle. A have 4 days off so I'll be able to stop and enjoy the scenery pleny.



I can't wait to hit those twisty roads in my E36.



I'll take plenty of photos and post some then.





Cobra

Stop waxing and start driving.

[m3f_JeffN]

Great drive, did it 20 yrs ago although in a X11 Citation...

[m3f_mbanks21]

OT- I actually had a newer boxster for lunch yesterday in my 98 vert. I pulled up behind him at the light, he didnt see me and when the light changed I punched it. At the next light he pulled up and we gave the standard "nice car" with a nod and he said "you want to go?" I said (sarcastically) "Dont know how well Im gonna do now that youre ready to race" hahahahaha anyway the light changed and I pulled a car lenght ahead, switched to 2nd and I was at least 2 and a half ahead at about 55-60 mph. Felt pretty good