E90 Owner Moving to F30 - Opinion Needed on the M Sport

[4DIMNZN]

My 2007 E90 335i Sedan w/sport package is near the end of all it's warranties, the miles are stacking up and it's time to get a new car. First let me say I have thoroughly enjoyed my 335i. I had it flashed with a Dinan Stage II upgrade and it is a blast to drive. As you can see from my signature I have couple of performance cars in my fleet but the 335i has been a real treat to use as a true business sports sedan. Quick note: When I get clients in the car and they ask if it really performs and I figure that's my cue to kick it into sport mode to answer their question. I love the look on their faces as they brace themselves in the passenger seat.

Last month I blew out the seal on the differential and the dealer had it for a week. I was issued a 2013 328i Sport Sedan loaner to tool around in. It doesn't handle as well as my E90 Sport(some people say the ride is harsh - but I love it) and obviously it doesn't have the same power, but I really like the car. I am actually okay with the reduced power but the handling is a bit compromising.

My question is if anyone has bought the 328i M Sport and, if so, did they come from an E90 with the Sport package? If so, it would be great if you could share your evaluation of these two models. Final note on this: I am aware that the electric steering on the F30 has changed the driving dynamics of the car, I used to have an E85 with this set up and am familiar with the vagueness. Anyways, thanks in advance for your biased opinions :)

[Reedo]

"Vagueness" is subjective to what specific aspect you are looking to experience. The electric steering transmits information to your hands, and your input is very direct. Where you get the difference though is with how that information is transmitted. With hydraulic steering in the E90 and E46, you can feel most of the bumps and cracks in the road. The electric steering feeds back road features, but it seems like it filters out the minutia that is unnecessary for everyday driving. I liken it to driving on a washboard gravel road. With the electric steering, you'll certainly know you're on the washboard road, but it won't feel like you have to have a death grip on the wheel to keep it going straight. JMO.

Just a quick question- was your loaner car a RWD or xDrive car?

[4DIMNZN]

"Vagueness" is subjective to what specific aspect you are looking to experience. The electric steering transmits information to your hands, and your input is very direct. Where you get the difference though is with how that information is transmitted. With hydraulic steering in the E90 and E46, you can feel most of the bumps and cracks in the road. The electric steering feeds back road features, but it seems like it filters out the minutia that is unnecessary for everyday driving. I liken it to driving on a washboard gravel road. With the electric steering, you'll certainly know you're on the washboard road, but it won't feel like you have to have a death grip on the wheel to keep it going straight. JMO.

Just a quick question- was your loaner car a RWD or xDrive car?

My loaner was a RWD. Does the Xdrive version use hydraulic steering (Like the X1)? Your point about the washboard road is well put. Another one would liken it to dual steering stations on a large power boat. The one on deck would be hydraulic and I would have a closer/direct feel of the forces working on the boat: current, waves. On the remote steering station (electric/servo) on the fly bridge I would still be aware of those forces, but they would be muted and piloting the boat would feel looser, disconnected - even to the point of over compensating on course corrections. There would be less stress on the wheel and me, but it would be a bit fatiguing (as well as unsettling) to be focusing on not over compensating. Well, maybe comparing a BMW to a Chris Craft Commander is not the best scenario but it serves the point. I'm just wondering if the M Sport version tightens this up.

[Jamesons Viggen]

The Sport suspension on the RWD Sport and MSport splits the base and sport suspension of the E90. In order to get E90 Sport suspension handling, you need to have port installed or dealer installed M Performance suspension.

The M Sport does not offer much in the way of handling over the Sport as the suspension is the same. The gains come from staggered wider rear wheels and wider summer tires. The 328 Sport comes with wimpy 225's, the MSport brings 8.5" rear wheels and 255's. You also get the better bite(+more dust) of the more aggressive Euro brake pads on the MSport.

The rest of the MSport, the EB2 color, the more aggressive body work, yeah aesthetics. But add that too the delicious MSport steering wheel, better shift feel of the weighted Zhp shift knob, metal dead pedal, all these little things elevate the car a small amount to feel a bit more sporting and special.

In terms of steering, tires do have a small affect on heft and feedback. Also make sure you drive in different modes which all affect steering. DTC OFF for example, affects the steering the most, while Sport+ or just one press of the DTC button which still leaves the TC on a bit is the next best thing. Comfort and ECO have diminished steering heft and feedback.

Also note, if you "settle" for the 328, it can have 335 power very easily. The BMS tune is great, stage 1 is nice, but JB4 is coming out any day now. Granted, if you have no issues splurging for an 335 MSport, do it, and mod it too. But if I had the choice of an EB2 MSport 328 or a lower level lower optioned 335, I would do the 328. You have a similar stable to me. A 335's extra 60hp(less in reality), extra 120lbs over the nose, slightly reduced fuel economy, just was not worth it.

[4DIMNZN]

The Sport suspension on the RWD Sport and MSport splits the base and sport suspension of the E90. In order to get E90 Sport suspension handling, you need to have port installed or dealer installed M Performance suspension.

The M Sport does not offer much in the way of handling over the Sport as the suspension is the same. The gains come from staggered wider rear wheels and wider summer tires. The 328 Sport comes with wimpy 225's, the MSport brings 8.5" rear wheels and 255's. You also get the better bite(+more dust) of the more aggressive Euro brake pads on the MSport.

The rest of the MSport, the EB2 color, the more aggressive body work, yeah aesthetics. But add that too the delicious MSport steering wheel, better shift feel of the weighted Zhp shift knob, metal dead pedal, all these little things elevate the car a small amount to feel a bit more sporting and special.

In terms of steering, tires do have a small affect on heft and feedback. Also make sure you drive in different modes which all affect steering. DTC OFF for example, affects the steering the most, while Sport+ or just one press of the DTC button which still leaves the TC on a bit is the next best thing. Comfort and ECO have diminished steering heft and feedback.

Also note, if you "settle" for the 328, it can have 335 power very easily. The BMS tune is great, stage 1 is nice, but JB4 is coming out any day now. Granted, if you have no issues splurging for an 335 MSport, do it, and mod it too. But if I had the choice of an EB2 MSport 328 or a lower level lower optioned 335, I would do the 328. You have a similar stable to me. A 335's extra 60hp(less in reality), extra 120lbs over the nose, slightly reduced fuel economy, just was not worth it.
I really appreciate your feedback. This is exactly the information I was looking for. I figured a tune on the 328 would be in the cards. I'll probably opt for the M Sport for the reasons you mentioned. The price difference between the M Sport and Sport models seems to justify the difference. Having the right steering wheel, a little grippier stance and that dead pedal all add up to make it a worthwhile investment. Plus the car looks better.

[Jamesons Viggen]

I really appreciate your feedback. This is exactly the information I was looking for. I figured a tune on the 328 would be in the cards. I'll probably opt for the M Sport for the reasons you mentioned. The price difference between the M Sport and Sport models seems to justify the difference. Having the right steering wheel, a little grippier stance and that dead pedal all add up to make it a worthwhile investment. Plus the car looks better.


Exactly.

The BMS stage 1 nets acceleration = or better than the 335. The JB4, even more so. JB4 on E85=silly power. I know I know, mod for mod, the 335 does even better. But shaving 120lbs off the nose of a 335 is not as easy as making power.

Since we have similar stables, here are some pics of the two cars:

The F30 is getting dropped SOON-
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130406_190013_412_zps6c701978.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180443_983_zps57ee2c1e.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180527_120_zps9e144b34.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180539_555_zps66a80e74.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180557_473_zpsa6f7bf9d.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180615_693_zps6d361c09.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180635_479_zpsb7e4e6cb.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180651_037_zpsd194abda.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180659_315_zpsb252f4bc.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180716_717_zps1db7957d.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_180728_385_zpsdb2cf16e.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_181331_052_zpsb1310c31.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_181342_849_zps6665d76c.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_181404_547_zps7f05e37e.jpg
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u18/Jamesonsviggen/IMG_20130408_181447_722_zps5a9deac6.jpg

[4DIMNZN]

We are of like mind on both these cars. I see the F30 has the no badging option on it (which I really like). Thanks for posting the pictures - I have only seen that color once on the dealer lot (which I also like) but it's hard to really see the car when it's surrounded by a gaggle of other new BMW's. This helps a lot. BTW: I know a couple of guys who run stables like ours. We should all buy homes in the same neighborhood. We'd probably only go in our houses for sleep and occasional food. What suspension set up are you thinking of?

[Jamesons Viggen]

We are of like mind on both these cars. I see the F30 has the no badging option on it (which I really like). Thanks for posting the pictures - I have only seen that color once on the dealer lot (which I also like) but it's hard to really see the car when it's surrounded by a gaggle of other new BMW's. This helps a lot. BTW: I know a couple of guys who run stables like ours. We should all buy homes in the same neighborhood. We'd probably only go in our houses for sleep and occasional food. What suspension set up are you thinking of?


LOL, I like that idea.

I actually debadged the car the day I got it home, so much cleaner that way.

For suspension, nothing exotic. H&R Sports give it a nice drop without it looking TOO LOW and ride is said to be good. I will worry about struts later, see how it drives first. I usually prefer Konis to Bils on my cars.

Here is an example on SPORTS:
http://just.razzi.me/photos/929788/6e3630a.jpg
Here is one on the SUPER SPORTS, which I find a bit too much
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w153/Brentmeister7592/springs1.jpg

[4DIMNZN]

You're right about the white one. The real wheel arch and wheel don't look symmetrical. I like the alpine white on red but it makes the car look a little Sonata'ish

[jsedlak]

If you want the handling, get the MPerf Suspension.

My M-Sport is fantastic to look at, and that's why I got the M-Sport option.

[4DIMNZN]

Pulled the trigger yesterday and ordered the 328i M Sport in Alpine White with Coral Red Leather. I kept the options to a minimum: sport automatic, lighting package, heated seats and the staggered wheel setup. I requested Performance center delivery. It was tough because they had a 328i sport on the lot in Mineral White that was optioned a bit better (nav/park distance control) with black leather and they would cut a fair deal on it - but it's not the car that would make me smile when I poke my head in the garage.

Now... I wait...

458038

[AmazingJr]

That is exactly how i would have ordered it. Just a manual transmission though. Nice job! Your going to love it!

[4DIMNZN]

Thanks! I am really excited about getting it. I spend a ton of time sitting in stop and go traffic on the DC Beltway and if wasn't for that I would have ordered the six speed.

[Jamesons Viggen]

Pulled the trigger yesterday and ordered the 328i M Sport in Alpine White with Coral Red Leather. I kept the options to a minimum: sport automatic, lighting package, heated seats and the staggered wheel setup. I requested Performance center delivery. It was tough because they had a 328i sport on the lot in Mineral White that was optioned a bit better (nav/park distance control) with black leather and they would cut a fair deal on it - but it's not the car that would make me smile when I poke my head in the garage.

Now... I wait...

458038


Congrats!

Love me some Coral Red interior!

[dc/dc]

My first BMW was a 2008 335i saloon with the sport package. I loved it, stupidly traded it for a 2008 Civic Si because I missed high revs and a 6MT. I left the country for about 18 months so I ditched that, and picked up a 2011 Infiniti EX35 the day I moved back. That was decent, but no Bimmer and it got crap mileage. Traded that for a Golf R, tuned that with GIAC, and about 6 months later had enough of commuting in NoVA with a 6MT, so I went back to what I knew would make me happy: a BMW. Given the new engine choices in the F30 over E9X, I elected to go with the 328i, but get all of the M goodies I could, so I have the full M Sport package plus the Dynamic Chassis. I can say without doubt that this is best car I've owned.

[4DIMNZN]

My first BMW was a 2008 335i saloon with the sport package. I loved it, stupidly traded it for a 2008 Civic Si because I missed high revs and a 6MT. I left the country for about 18 months so I ditched that, and picked up a 2011 Infiniti EX35 the day I moved back. That was decent, but no Bimmer and it got . Traded that for a Golf R, tuned that with GIAC, and about 6 months later had enough of commuting in NoVA with a 6MT and went back to what I knew would make me happy: a BMW. Given the new engine choices in the F30 over E9X, I elected to go with the 328i, but get all of the M goodies I could, so I have the full M Sport package plus the Dynamic Chassis. I can say without doubt that is best car I've owned.

I was considering the Infinity G37 Sport. I could option it up way beyond the 328i for the same money and it's a great car. Almost as good as ..... and there you go.

[Ravennole]

I was considering the Infinity G37 Sport. I could option it up way beyond the 328i for the same money and it's a great car. Almost as good as ..... and there you go.

I just feel much happier in a BMW than an Infiniti. I think the drive better and look better and if I am spending a ton of money on a car it's going to be a BMW. Just my opinion. I have an 01 BMW and was thinking of upgrading 3 years ago and my car still drives great and I elected to keep it, save money as I haven't had payments in years and get into a new one when I'm financially ready. Infiniti is a good car I just personally don't think the 2k or so less it normally speced out is worth it

[rolltidef30]

I was considering the Infinity G37 Sport. I could option it up way beyond the 328i for the same money and it's a great car. Almost as good as ..... and there you go.

You should probably go with the Infiniti based on your criteria. BMW isn't about options and little plastic toys, it's about the drive and feel of the car. Saying that, I ordered my car with all the cool options I wanted and none that I didn't.

You get what you pay for. The money I save on Maintenance makes up for a y price difference. I'd gladly pay more for a BMW and I did with my F30. I have no regrets, because I know I have the best car in its class and one of the finest in the world.