135i vs E46 M3

[petertruong]

I am trying to decide on my next daily driver/occasional track car (autocross and track days Buttonwillow, Willow Springs, L Seca). Any advice would be appreciated. My current car is an 06 M5.

[larryn]

It's a common theme to compare them. You might want to read these threads where it's been asked & debated quite a few times in the past.

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7666
http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10541
http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6813
http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4246
http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2410

[PC Valkyrie]

Basically, they are very comparable according to published laptimes around a track. Interesting that the 135i actually has higher skidpad grip numbers and slalom speeds than the E46 M3 when you look at magazine tests. However, there is more body roll in the 135i compared to the E46 M3 when it comes to hard cornering. It's just that BMW did a good job with suspension tuning to keep all 4 wheels on the ground despite the higher body roll.

Straightline acceleration is also very similar in both cars, but they achieve it in different ways......the 135i has more of an AMG approach, with lots of low end torque and a lower redline, while the E46 M3 generates power the classic M way.....high revving, with relatively low torque in the lower rpm's.

Comfortwise, I find the stock 135i suspension to be more comfortable than the stock E46 M3 for street driving.

The 2 cars are also very similar in weight. Basically, when people say it the 135i is a "poor man's M3", they are referring to the E46 M3.

[Impulse]

Depends on the forum your reading...Haha
My roomate has an 04 e46 m3 and I have my 135i
They both have their strengths and weaknesses. Either one is a great car and will do great for your purpose

My other roomate on the 10th is picking up his e39 m5. We have a very sweet collection of cars at the house