E46 M3 vs 3er (technical)

[PrinceE30]

Does anyone know the chassis differences between the stantard 3 series and M3 in the E46 flavor.

I know fenders, lights, indicators, and hood are different. But what about the suspension? Will the same parts fit on an M3 as will on a standard 3er?

Thanks!

-Prince

[tdc]

Yes and no. Some parts will fit but it won't be good for it.

The suspension on the M3 is designed specific to the weight and balance of the M3. The subframes are different and won't be a straight bolt-on.

The shocks and springs can be used interchangeably but doubt the non-M will actually benefit any due to the valve and spring rates.

You can bolt the M front strut brace right on however without issue.

[czm3]

The rear brakes are the same as a E46 330CI.

[PrinceE30]

How close can I make a 330Ci (with proper suspension mods) to an M3 is kind of what I'm looking for.

I know the 325 and 330 are around 150lbs lighter than the M3 (mostly enging I'm sure). But with the use of a CF hood, lighweight seats, etc I think the basic 3 series could be even lighter...and not to mention possible engine swaps...

-Prince

[Ximian]

It could be much, MUCH lighter, but you would have to sacrafice many comforts or extra features, or looks. (especially with unpainted carbon fiber and especially on hoods)

Lighter rims, carbon fiber body, removing the back seat, spare tires, CD changer/radio, floor mats it all depends on how far you want to take it.

[PrinceE30]

far...

I was just kinda wondering the major differences between the 3er since things like brake kits, suspension parts, etc are different. That's why I ask.

-prince

[czm3]

The M3 is wider. The fenders are flared out to accomodate large tires. Therefore, many of the suspension components are different. However there are numerous good upgrades to the 330Ci. Equal out the tire stagger. Maybe leave 10 mm, but this will be the BEST improvement you can make to the e46. Then look into coilovers. After these, it starts to make sence to look into weight reduction. Before you start replacing panels however, you will get much more bang for the buck by following my above mentioned upgrades.
To go farther, get camber plates, and to lighten the front, remove the A/C. Foglamps are also useless weight...
Good luck with the project.

[Ximian]

Also, no passengers and start exercising more. That could be your biggest and cheapest weight reduction.

[PrinceE30]

I'm only 180lbs and have no friends (actually the only person that usually ever drives with me, esp on the track, is my gf and she's quite svelte)

Thanks for the input though...

-Prince

[dank]

Originally posted by PrinceE30
I'm only 180lbs and have no friends (actually the only person that usually ever drives with me, esp on the track, is my gf and she's quite svelte)

Thanks for the input though...

-Prince

funny shit.. i actually Laughed Out Loud.


dank


p.s. spare tires are easy to take out..

[PrinceE30]

Though the body is wider due to external body pannels (arches) being different...is there any inherent difference in the structure (save lighter materials) of frames and sub-frames of the basic E46? (this much better describes what i want to know)

I know some of the E46 parts are different because of suspension geometry and such, but is the basic and overall car the same thing? like trunk dimenions are the same. interior. firewalls. etc.

-Prince

[tdc]

Originally posted by PrinceE30
but is the basic and overall car the same thing? like trunk dimenions are the same. interior. firewalls. etc.

-Prince

Yes.

[PrinceE30]

thanks tdc...

btw, never got to say this yet...LOVE you nickname

-Prince

[tdc]

Thanks...I guess. They're just my initials.

[PrinceE30]

oh, wow...

well, when someone on a car site has the nick "tdc" it makes me think of "top dead center" (as in, lining up the crank and cams when you mess with the timing belts and chains). guess i was looking too much into it!

in any case...thanks for all the help!

-Prince