Yes the SMG cars are less. The cost to convert a smg to 6-speed can range from 2500 to 4500 depending on parts used.
2001 BMW M3 | Retro Review
- Thread starter SID297
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Can you compare the two cars ….. I know the Z is faster than an the M but I am curious from a drivers car perspective
A better comparison would be M3 to C6Z. I bought a new C6Z to replace the M3. Plus my C5Z is far from stock now.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, my e46 M3 (2004) was the most fun to drive car I have ever owned. It connects with the driver in many ways modern cars could never. First is the steering. The precise feel, connected feedback and quick responses inspire confidence. The engine and transmission work together in a harmony that promotes the driver to keep going. The engine, with seemingly low torque as compared to the Corvettes of its day, pulls strong all the way its 8k redline. The chassis is stuff but the ride is not firm. Body roll is controlled but not completely eliminated. The car is never disrupted by pavement changes or bumps mid-corner. You put these elements together and you have a car that is fun no matter when you drive it. Even driving the kids to school in the am.
I traded my M3 for what was most exhilarating stock car I've ever owned.... A 2006 C6 Z06. The C6 Z06 is all about the power. And there is so much of it by comparison to the M3. But that brings us to the first disconnect, gearing. The M3 is geared to drive. The car is comfortable cruising at 4k all day... the LS7 not so much. The gearing in the Z is tall.... terribly tall. The way the engine and transmission work together it makes you shift at lower rpm. As a result it is more comfortable cruising at 1,500-2,000. During spirited driving revving the car past 4k doesnt feel smooth and connected like the M3. Almost feels forced, like yes the car does it easily.... but maybe would rather you didnt. Whereas the M3 asks for more. The steering in the Vette while firm and precise has little feel and feedback as compared to the M3. The Vette suffers from handling issues on pavement changes and bumps/dips in the road. There was one section of road I used to drive through some essys in both cars. There were two bumps in the middle I hardly noticed in the M3. It would take it all out full throttle every time. The C6Z, while speeds did get as high eventually, it did not inspire confidence. The bumps would disrupt the ride to the point of almost losing it without close to full throttle. It took time to match the speeds the M3 could do easily. That line is consistent when I think back... the M3 was the more rewarding car to drive. It was fast out of the gate on corners and track. The C6Z, while could ultimately go faster, it took more time to get comfortable. That is not even taking power into the equation. That brings us to power... C6Z is so fast that one full throttle blast through the gears and you forget all about any and all handling, feel and just about any other life issue! Yes, its that fast!!
In summary the M3 is more rewarding for drivers that like corners and spirited driving. It begs for more speed every time. You are in control of it in every way.
The C6Z is all about the brutal power. Handling limits are great, but the car is not connected with the driver in the way the M3 is. It feels more like a amusement park ride that you are somewhat along for the ride.
I loved both cars for what they were.
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^ Classic Slow Car Fast or Fast Car Slow.
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