E46 M3
E46 M3
Advanced
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 93
Likes: 0
From: CA
I drove my friend's one. It was not yet broken in so I did not go over 5.5K RPMs but even though it had more power then my 95' 993. Also I think gear ratios was better distributed on that car too - no ugly RMP drop like on 993 from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd. Other then that I still like handling and steering feel of 993 more.
Instructor
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 161
Likes: 0
From: Detroit
Drove a students M3 on track at Putnam Park sometime back. Deeply impressive car - but nowhere near as good on track as my 993. However, for context, my 993 has coilovers, sticky tires etc. Hence in contrast, the new M3 tended to float, roll and understeer. Also, it ** didn't ** feel that monstrously powerful compared to my 993 - I suspect however that this was because I was not used to it, hence not that good at keeping it in the powerband etc. Be interesting to see how good the new M3 is with some track-oriented suspension and sticky tires.
No doubt coming to a track event near you soon (be afraid .......)
No doubt coming to a track event near you soon (be afraid .......)
Advanced
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 60
Likes: 0
From: Boston, MA
I did a test drive a few weeks ago and was very impressed. Naturally the salesman accompanied me, as this was the only demo around locally. But my street impression was that the suspension is a nice compromise between responsiveness and comfort, and that the acceleration put my 993 to shame. At least, it was much more accessible at lower rpm, and I didn't spend too much time up top. Real instant go power. And no dawdling below 3K, perhaps due to the variable valve timing. Put it this way: wish my car responded like that!
