You Purchased a F80 M3 or a F82 M4: What would you have done differently?

DBACE · 11-16-2014, 09:11 PM

I am planning on purchasing an M4, or I should say putting a deposit on a M4 in April 2015. I have been scanning this web site for quite a long time trying to make myself a bit smarter about M and finally decided to join since seeing a predominantly passionate and well versed membership in all things M. I have learned a lot from many of you.

I am asking for your help on my impending purchase and hope you will be willing to share your wisdom garnered from your positive and negative experiences purchasing your M3 or M4.

My questions to each of you who have purchased an M car via a local dealer or European Delivery are this:

If there was anything your would of done differently in purchasing an M car, because it caused you some form of grief, anxiety, fiscal oops or other negative consequence, what would it be?

What was the smartest thing you did that yielded a positive experience, result, etc. that went beyond your wildest expectations.

I appreciate your time and thoughtful consideration to my two questions.

solstice · 11-16-2014, 09:16 PM

What would I order differently? Not one thing.

Best option? The 6 MT, it took a while to adapt and realize just how much I missed driving an MT and how good the MT is in this car. 2nd best option, passive suspension. It's so perfect for my liking on the street. I usually wish for a slightly stiffer suspension than BMWs sports/M setup, not this time. It's perfect.

SakhirM4 · 11-16-2014, 09:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by solstice

What would I order differently? Not one thing.

Best option? The 6 MT, it took a while to adapt and realize just how much I missed driving an MT and how good the MT is in this car. 2nd best option, passive suspension. It's so perfect for my liking on the street. I usually wish for a slightly stiffer suspension than BMWs sports/M setup, not this time. It's perfect.

I agree with both - 6MT and passive suspension. I have the full leather and think it was worth every penny. Would have like to have liked to have Comfort Access, but wasn't worth paying for Executive package to get it. I also have a moonroof which everyone told me not to get, but I am glad that I did. I have the silver wheels because I think black looks like someone stole your hubcaps, but that's a very personal choice.

CanAutM3 · 11-16-2014, 09:31 PM

The only second thought I am having is not ordering the premium package. Our packages are different in Canada; the premium pack includes Extended Leather, Heads Up Display, Park Distance Control, Rear View Camera and Sirius radio for $4500CAD. Since I already ordered Extended Leather, the package would have been $3000CAD more. I would have liked HUD and the rear view camera and PDC could come handy. I am still torn if it would have been worth the extra weight and extra money.

solstice · 11-16-2014, 09:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SakhirM4

I agree with both - 6MT and passive suspension. I also have a moonroof which everyone told me not to get, but I am glad that I did. I have the silver wheels because I think black looks like someone stole your hubcaps, but that's a very personal choice.

Cool, sunroof here as well and would order it again with no doubt. I like my black 19s though, until I touch a curb I suppose since I assume they will look horrid with the slightest nick

///M/// · 11-16-2014, 09:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DBACE

I am planning on purchasing an M4, or I should say putting a deposit on a M4 in April 2015. I have been scanning this web site for quite a long time trying to make myself a bit smarter about M and finally decided to join since seeing a predominantly passionate and well versed membership in all things M. I have learned a lot from many of you.

I am asking for your help on my impending purchase and hope you will be willing to share your wisdom garnered from your positive and negative experiences purchasing your M3 or M4.

My questions to each of you who have purchased an M car via a local dealer or European Delivery are this:

If there was anything your would of done differently in purchasing an M car, because it caused you some form of grief, anxiety, fiscal oops or other negative consequence, what would it be?

What was the smartest thing you did that yielded a positive experience, result, etc. that went beyond your wildest expectations.

I appreciate your time and thoughtful consideration to my two questions.

What happens in April 2015? Why that specific month?

NorCal f80 · 11-16-2014, 09:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsm918

What happens in April 2015? Why that specific month?

Maybe his financial plan?

///M/// · 11-16-2014, 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 0-100 nga real quick

Maybe his financial plan?

Was looking more to see if he was shooting for a 2015 or 2016. I am planning on a 2016 and was checking to see if he knew something that maybe I didn't, as in 2016 prices being announced in April? I was going by July.

SD ///M4 · 11-16-2014, 10:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by solstice

2nd best option, passive suspension. It's so perfect for my liking on the street. I usually wish for a slightly stiffer suspension than BMWs sports/M setup, not this time. It's perfect.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SakhirM4

I agree with both - 6MT and passive suspension.

It's my understanding that the M Active Suspension is the ($1,000) option and that if you don't order this option you get the passive suspension. The way both of you have worded this makes it sound like you got passive suspension as an option rather than the default. Are you saying not to order the M Active Suspension?

Clarify please?

GrussGott · 11-16-2014, 10:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DBACE

My questions to each of you who have purchased an M car via a local dealer or European Delivery are this:

If there was anything your would of done differently because it caused you some form of grief, what would it be?
What was the smartest thing you did that yielded a positive experience that went beyond your wildest expectations.

(1.) European delivery

(2.) European delivery

solstice · 11-16-2014, 10:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SD Z4MR

It's my understanding that the M Active Suspension is the ($1,000) option and that if you don't order this option you get the passive suspension. The way both of you have worded this makes it sound like you got passive suspension as an option rather than the default. Are you saying not to order the M Active Suspension?

Clarify please?

Yup, that's correct for both the 6 MT and the passive suspension. They are standard but optional since they aren't mandatory. Hope that clarifies it.

SakhirM4 · 11-16-2014, 10:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SD Z4MR

It's my understanding that the M Active Suspension is the ($1,000) option and that if you don't order this option you get the passive suspension. The way both of you have worded this makes it sound like you got passive suspension as an option rather than the default. Are you saying not to order the M Active Suspension?

Clarify please?

Yes, the $$ option is the adaptive suspension. I guess saying that I got the passive suspension as an option is misleading. It was an "option" to get the adaptive or not and I chose the "option" not to get it. I would not say to not get the adaptive suspension, since people that got it like it. I am just saying that I am happy without it. One less thing to fail in the long run, I guess.

Doctor///M · 11-16-2014, 10:13 PM

Absolutely nothing!

As far as options go, the passive suspension and 6MT are top notch. The black wheels aren't actually the black hole that a lot of people describe. See them in person and then see what you think. Exec package is definitely worth it for the HUD and CA. I didn't think I'd need parking sensors, but you'll thank yourself for each occurrence you have to park if you do ED.

On the ED front, make sure you pick one or two themes and stick with it. Plan a good balance of driving and sightseeing, since there is so much more to do in the continent besides the autobahn, castles and alpine twisties. Since you also have the option to do PCD at no cost (provided you have the time), definitely check that box! I'm awaiting a PCD date as we speak. The cherry on the icing is sharing your anticipation among others on the forum. All in all, a fantastic experience!!!

krnnerdboy · 11-16-2014, 10:34 PM

Picked up an inventory model last night and the only regret is not having rear camera/sensors! Wtf, they're standard on all Hondas and yet they're optional on bmw's. Get it

Lynchmob6 · 11-17-2014, 04:46 AM

I would have done nothing differently. Since the car was ordered, I got exactly what I wanted...no regrets here!

PCD - as others have mentioned, this is a great experience. I had already done an ED with an earlier car, so PCD was the next new experience to try. Definitely no regrets there either!

Falafel Combo · 11-17-2014, 05:20 AM

Great thread! Thanks for getting the discussion going OP.

Question about the adaptive suspension. Does it change any of the car hardware? ie, if my car is equipped with the adaptive suspension option, but I leave it "off", do I have the exact same dynamics as the passive suspension?

I ask because I know in the f30, if you order the "dynamic handling package", you get both the adaptive dampers (which you can select on and off), but you also get the VSS (variable sport steering) which you can not turn off. I believe it is a different steering rack with different ratios.

I had the EDC on my ZCP e92, and frankly did not care for it much. But it's hard to argue against a $1000 option. If anything, I might just get it for re-sale.

But for now, I'm coming from an xDrive 335i, with the optional no-frills BASE suspension. Frankly I'd be happy if my f80 drove at least as good as a lawn chair with metallic paint.

Falafel Combo · 11-17-2014, 05:22 AM

Would love to do ED, but might have to settle for American Delivery (PCD). I'll make a stop in Germantown, PA on the way back to get the full ED experience. Should be the same, right?

Rude Boy · 11-17-2014, 05:27 AM

I wish I got the LED's and did PCD love it regardless..... almost didnt do the executive package but love all the features it came with.

Algol · 11-17-2014, 06:32 AM

I am perfectly happy with the car now but if I did it again id get LED's and CCB's for the bling factor. Single best option for these cars is the side and top view camera's if you live in a city.

Damasconian · 11-17-2014, 07:42 AM

I got the LED's but not sure the $2K is worth it. I guess if you're trying to skip out on options, that would be the one I'd lose first.

The Speed limit data was part of the drivers assist package and that has been a great surprise. I changed my order at the last second and added it. Combined with HUD, its the one feature that I wont buy another car without.

dmk08 · 11-17-2014, 07:48 AM

It looks like I will be going DCT after planning 6mt. In the end I know I will have regrets either way so it doesnt really matter. The biggest pro is my wife can now drive the car in a jam.

Falafel Combo · 11-17-2014, 08:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rude Boy

I wish I got the LED's ....

Quote:

Originally Posted by Algol

... but if I did it again id get LED's ...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Damasconian

I got the LED's but not sure the $2K is worth it ...

11-16-2014, 09:11 PM	#1
DBACE Captain 689 Rep 677 Posts Drives: F80 M3 LCI Join Date: Nov 2014 Location: USA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 BMW M3 [10.00] 2005 CBR1000RR [10.00] 1995 ST1100 [9.00] 2009 Camry Hybrid [0.00]	You Purchased a F80 M3 or a F82 M4: What would you have done differently? I am planning on purchasing an M4, or I should say putting a deposit on a M4 in April 2015. I have been scanning this web site for quite a long time trying to make myself a bit smarter about M and finally decided to join since seeing a predominantly passionate and well versed membership in all things M. I have learned a lot from many of you. I am asking for your help on my impending purchase and hope you will be willing to share your wisdom garnered from your positive and negative experiences purchasing your M3 or M4. My questions to each of you who have purchased an M car via a local dealer or European Delivery are this: If there was anything your would of done differently in purchasing an M car, because it caused you some form of grief, anxiety, fiscal oops or other negative consequence, what would it be? What was the smartest thing you did that yielded a positive experience, result, etc. that went beyond your wildest expectations. I appreciate your time and thoughtful consideration to my two questions.
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11-16-2014, 09:16 PM	#2
solstice Major General 5457 Rep 7,037 Posts Drives: 2015 M3 6MT Join Date: May 2013 Location: Seattle iTrader: (0)	What would I order differently? Not one thing. Best option? The 6 MT, it took a while to adapt and realize just how much I missed driving an MT and how good the MT is in this car. 2nd best option, passive suspension. It's so perfect for my liking on the street. I usually wish for a slightly stiffer suspension than BMWs sports/M setup, not this time. It's perfect.
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11-16-2014, 09:31 PM	#4
CanAutM3 General 21117 Rep 20,741 Posts Drives: 2021 911 turbo Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Montreal iTrader: (1) Garage List 2022 Audi RS6 [10.00] 2021 Porsche 911 turbo [10.00]	The only second thought I am having is not ordering the premium package. Our packages are different in Canada; the premium pack includes Extended Leather, Heads Up Display, Park Distance Control, Rear View Camera and Sirius radio for $4500CAD. Since I already ordered Extended Leather, the package would have been $3000CAD more. I would have liked HUD and the rear view camera and PDC could come handy. I am still torn if it would have been worth the extra weight and extra money.
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11-16-2014, 10:13 PM	#13
Doctor///M Brigadier General 1792 Rep 4,216 Posts Drives: 2023 AUDI RS6 Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: USA iTrader: (14) Garage List 2023 Audi RS6 Avant [0.00] BMW M2 Competition [10.00] 2009 BMW 335i [0.00] 2015 M3 [9.52]	Absolutely nothing! As far as options go, the passive suspension and 6MT are top notch. The black wheels aren't actually the black hole that a lot of people describe. See them in person and then see what you think. Exec package is definitely worth it for the HUD and CA. I didn't think I'd need parking sensors, but you'll thank yourself for each occurrence you have to park if you do ED. On the ED front, make sure you pick one or two themes and stick with it. Plan a good balance of driving and sightseeing, since there is so much more to do in the continent besides the autobahn, castles and alpine twisties. Since you also have the option to do PCD at no cost (provided you have the time), definitely check that box! I'm awaiting a PCD date as we speak. The cherry on the icing is sharing your anticipation among others on the forum. All in all, a fantastic experience!!! __________________ 2020 F87 M2 Competition /l\ LBB /i\ Executive Package 2013 E70 X5M /l\ Space Grey /i\ Full Silverstone Leather /l\ LED Headlights /i\ Comfort Access /l\ HUD /i\ Ventilated Seats /l\ 22" BBS SV BMW CCA Member
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11-16-2014, 10:34 PM	#14
krnnerdboy Colonel 190 Rep 2,431 Posts Drives: v10 m6 Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: so cal iTrader: (10)	Picked up an inventory model last night and the only regret is not having rear camera/sensors! Wtf, they're standard on all Hondas and yet they're optional on bmw's. Get it __________________ F80 m3, 997 gt3, 14 ram ctd, f15 x5, drz400sm Gone:z4m, boss 302, c6 z06, m6,z3m
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11-17-2014, 04:46 AM	#15
Lynchmob6 Major 368 Rep 1,175 Posts Drives: 2015 SO/SO F80 & 135 M-Sport Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Central Florida iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 BMW 128i Conve ... [0.00] 2015 BMW M3 [0.00]	I would have done nothing differently. Since the car was ordered, I got exactly what I wanted...no regrets here! PCD - as others have mentioned, this is a great experience. I had already done an ED with an earlier car, so PCD was the next new experience to try. Definitely no regrets there either! __________________ ///M3 SO/SO / MT / 19" Black Alloys / Executive Pkg. / Lighting Pkg. / Adaptive Suspension / Enhanced USB / HK / Full Front XPEL / 35 Tint / MODS: Custom painted engine cover and grill surrounds, Pedal Haus Kit, M-Performance Alcantara shifter/boot & e-brake boot, carbon e-brake handle, wrapped seat shells/rear headrests, M-Performance Spoiler with CRT Stripe.
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11-17-2014, 05:20 AM	#16
Falafel Combo Banned 3773 Rep 6,673 Posts Drives: X5 xDrive50i Join Date: May 2011 Location: New England iTrader: (3)	Great thread! Thanks for getting the discussion going OP. Question about the adaptive suspension. Does it change any of the car hardware? ie, if my car is equipped with the adaptive suspension option, but I leave it "off", do I have the exact same dynamics as the passive suspension? I ask because I know in the f30, if you order the "dynamic handling package", you get both the adaptive dampers (which you can select on and off), but you also get the VSS (variable sport steering) which you can not turn off. I believe it is a different steering rack with different ratios. I had the EDC on my ZCP e92, and frankly did not care for it much. But it's hard to argue against a $1000 option. If anything, I might just get it for re-sale. But for now, I'm coming from an xDrive 335i, with the optional no-frills BASE suspension. Frankly I'd be happy if my f80 drove at least as good as a lawn chair with metallic paint.
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11-17-2014, 05:22 AM	#17
Falafel Combo Banned 3773 Rep 6,673 Posts Drives: X5 xDrive50i Join Date: May 2011 Location: New England iTrader: (3)	Would love to do ED, but might have to settle for American Delivery (PCD). I'll make a stop in Germantown, PA on the way back to get the full ED experience. Should be the same, right?
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11-17-2014, 05:27 AM	#18
Rude Boy Second Lieutenant 61 Rep 201 Posts Drives: M4 6MT Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Queens NY iTrader: (0)	I wish I got the LED's and did PCD love it regardless..... almost didnt do the executive package but love all the features it came with.
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11-17-2014, 06:32 AM	#19
Algol Private 11 Rep 94 Posts Drives: M4 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: ATL iTrader: (0)	I am perfectly happy with the car now but if I did it again id get LED's and CCB's for the bling factor. Single best option for these cars is the side and top view camera's if you live in a city.
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11-17-2014, 07:42 AM	#20
Damasconian Lieutenant Colonel 742 Rep 1,555 Posts Drives: 2015 M4 Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Texas iTrader: (0)	I got the LED's but not sure the $2K is worth it. I guess if you're trying to skip out on options, that would be the one I'd lose first. The Speed limit data was part of the drivers assist package and that has been a great surprise. I changed my order at the last second and added it. Combined with HUD, its the one feature that I wont buy another car without. __________________ 2015 M4 6-MT
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11-17-2014, 07:48 AM	#21
dmk08 Gone Fishin’ 7318 Rep 12,125 Posts Drives: Walks Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Atlanta iTrader: (19)	It looks like I will be going DCT after planning 6mt. In the end I know I will have regrets either way so it doesnt really matter. The biggest pro is my wife can now drive the car in a jam.
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