Hi there,
This is my first post. I've owned several BMWs and am now on my third, a 330CI with the M Sport package.
I'm considering some performance mods and first off, I'm considering a short shift kit. I used to own an MZ3 and compared to that, the throws on the 330Ci seem awfully long.
Anyways, the choices I have narrowed down to are the B&M stage 3 shift kit and the AC Schnitzer kit. I'm told that kits like the B&M and the UUC will shorten throw but will increase shift effort. The ACS kit will provide a much smoother throw since it replaces more parts. However, is it worth the price difference ($1200 CDN for the ACS vs. 344.95 CDN for the B&M)
Secondly, I would like to address the suspension. Don't get me wrong, the car handles great, but I'd like a slightly more aggressive look. For street driving, do I really need coilovers or will springs do it? I did springs only on a previous ride (a 2001 A4 1.8T) and it was an unmitigated disaster. Also, how close to stock ride height can I get with height adjustable coilovers?
Finally (for now) wheels. I have 225 45R17 on the front and 245 40r17 on the rears. I would like to maintain the stagger with aftermarket wheels. However, most of the staggered wheel packages are only for the M3 and we all know that the offset for the M3 rear wheels is entirely wrong for non M3 E46's. Any suggestions?
Any thoughts and suggestions would be appreciated.
Dr. Chuck
This is my first post. I've owned several BMWs and am now on my third, a 330CI with the M Sport package.
I'm considering some performance mods and first off, I'm considering a short shift kit. I used to own an MZ3 and compared to that, the throws on the 330Ci seem awfully long.
Anyways, the choices I have narrowed down to are the B&M stage 3 shift kit and the AC Schnitzer kit. I'm told that kits like the B&M and the UUC will shorten throw but will increase shift effort. The ACS kit will provide a much smoother throw since it replaces more parts. However, is it worth the price difference ($1200 CDN for the ACS vs. 344.95 CDN for the B&M)
Secondly, I would like to address the suspension. Don't get me wrong, the car handles great, but I'd like a slightly more aggressive look. For street driving, do I really need coilovers or will springs do it? I did springs only on a previous ride (a 2001 A4 1.8T) and it was an unmitigated disaster. Also, how close to stock ride height can I get with height adjustable coilovers?
Finally (for now) wheels. I have 225 45R17 on the front and 245 40r17 on the rears. I would like to maintain the stagger with aftermarket wheels. However, most of the staggered wheel packages are only for the M3 and we all know that the offset for the M3 rear wheels is entirely wrong for non M3 E46's. Any suggestions?
Any thoughts and suggestions would be appreciated.
Dr. Chuck
