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Thread: Keep Z3M stock or modify?

  1. #1
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    Keep Z3M stock or modify?

    I just got a completely stock Z3M with 95k miles. My original thought was to keep the miles low and stock. Hopefully one day it will be rare and collectable. At the same time I dont think these cars will ever be worth big money like E30 M3.
    So, if it will never be worth alot I might as well modify it with a turbo. I have a LS1 and T56 in my garage that could be shoe horned in.
    The question is, to modify or leave completely stock? What is the average value of a Z3M stock vr 400whp turbo vr LS1?
    98 M3 clone (in the process of UTE conversion)
    98 Z3M
    01 525 Touring
    93 5.0 Miata... 100% Diy build

  2. #2
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    I mean its not a collector car but that doesnt mean you need to shove an LS in it. The Z3M is one of the best sports cars I think BMW has ever made - is enjoying it stock the way the engineers intended not an option? If the options are either garage queen or LS swap Id go LS swap so at least it gets driven... But nothing wrong with the stock s52

  3. #3
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  4. #4
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    I'm all for modifications, but out of consideration for the car, they should be reversible. In the same argument, keep the stock parts too.

    Now I doubt there's any value in, or reason to keep old shocks/struts, but the stock manifolds and interconnecting pipes and devices aren't going to be easy to come by when the decision is made to revert back to stock.

  5. #5
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    I am by no means an expert, but I have seen all the cars that I've liked when I was younger appreciate in the last few years. 964's, 993s, E30s, 2002s all have doubled in value in the last 5 years. There is not much left that speaks to a certain demographic that is cheap and reasonably well cared for and easy to maintain. Z3s are about one of the few cars that fit that bill. I suspect they might appreciate as well.

  6. #6
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    I would have a hard time doing a LS swap to an M. My coupe is a 3.0 auto.... I have no problems ripping that out for a LS

  7. #7
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    If you have the money and means to do an LSX Z3M, go for it. If it's just going to be another project car that never gets finished, like 90% of swaps, I'd say just enjoy the M roadster as is.
    Cyrus Mistry

  8. #8
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    Stock. Putting non German engine in German car is heresy. Buy some Supra or Honda for your LS.

  9. #9
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    At some point in time, OEM is going to be better than a chevy scooter. If you want more performance, do BMW type performance upgrades. Super Charger options don't change the character of the NA engine if you don't need more than 400 HP to have fun. Turbo's in my mind change the character of the engine and car. But it is your money and time. Try to enjoy it no mater what modifications you make. I do agree with keeping it closer to a BMW than a Chevy. Why did you buy a MZ3 roadster to begin with? That should help you make a decision. It looks like you already have project cars. No need to make another.
    1987 M6
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  10. #10
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    Depends on whether you like driving cars vs working on them. The beauty of a Z3M is that it is so much fun to drive. I've had 450 hp cars, and when I first got my M I thought of turbocharging. But after driving it a while, I think the way this car is enjoyed is by driving it as it is. I ask myself "how often do I have my foot on the floor, wishing it had more power?" The answer is "almost never". But that's just me. Some people like working on cars and the challenge of swaps.

  11. #11
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    At 95K it's not exactly "low miles," but the thought of putting a push rod engine in place of a dual overhead cam variable timing four valve per cylinder bullet proof work of art is disturbing--I vote turbo.

  12. #12
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    Quote Originally Posted by dennisljacob View Post
    At some point in time, OEM is going to be better than a chevy scooter. If you want more performance, do BMW type performance upgrades. Super Charger options don't change the character of the NA engine if you don't need more than 400 HP to have fun. Turbo's in my mind change the character of the engine and car. But it is your money and time. Try to enjoy it no mater what modifications you make. I do agree with keeping it closer to a BMW than a Chevy. Why did you buy a MZ3 roadster to begin with? That should help you make a decision. It looks like you already have project cars. No need to make another.
    I do have other projects. I love the challenge of "forcing" incompatible components to work together. I have a functional V8 Miata which is an uncomfortable car to drive but is very fun. The Z3M is fun and comfortable. I probably should not mess that up.
    I think i will leave the Z3M alone or just slap a VF blower on it. I will take my creative energy out on my E36 M clone. Since it is a basic 323is under the body kit, it doesnt really matter how crazy I make it.
    I appreciate the comments.
    98 M3 clone (in the process of UTE conversion)
    98 Z3M
    01 525 Touring
    93 5.0 Miata... 100% Diy build

  13. #13
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    E34 525iT, '99 M Coupe
    To use the cliche' - "Life Is Short" Another one: "Know Thyself" Your V8 Miata sounds like an agreeable monster. I'm fortunate to not only have a somewhat modified M Coupe, but a personalized, fairly rowdy, Sunbeam Tiger. I don't give a shit about "original" or possible resale values.

    I'm sure you'll have fun whatever you choose to do.
    Last edited by paul4223; 07-23-2017 at 09:37 PM.

  14. #14
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    F30 328d X-Drive
    I have a high mileage 98 M roadster that has been abused. I have restored the interior already. Subframe is next then full paint and body work. Once all that is done.... LS swap is going to happen.

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