Mod Lists

"AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC" (addictedtom3s)
03/10/2015 at 01:02 • Filed to: Car Mods, OEM+

It is probably pretty obvious I have a strong bias towards M3s based on my avatar and name. However, it may not be obvious how absolutely crazy and obsessed I am about them. I don't have an e46 M3 currently but I like to daydream about owning one and what I would do to it. I'm strictly from the OEM+ or stock camp of modifications when it comes to cars. So here's my list:

19" Forgestar F14 (F: 19x8.5 +26 / R: 19x10 +19) - $1990

StopTech ST BBK (380mm 6-Piston Front / 355mm 4-Piston Rear) - $5890

3.91 Ring and Pinion Gear Set - $700

OEM CSL Carbon Fiber Roof Panel - $2899

OEM CSL Intake Camshaft - $1195

OEM CSL Exhaust Camshaft - $1195

OEM CSL Intake - $6022

CSL Intake Hose - $58

CSL Air Inlet Grille - $18

Exhaust Manifold Kit - $125

OEM CSL Diffuser - $1899

OEM CSL Trunk - $3199

Supersprint Step Headers V2 - $2755

OEM CSL/Euro Section 1 - $2870

Supersprint Race Exhaust - $2140 / Status Gruppe Tuning Section 3 - $755

Painted Reflectors - $55

Invisilight Silver Bulbs - $20

Vorshlag Camber Plates - $439

Rogue Engineering RSM - $100

KW Variant 2 - $2200

TMS Rear Subframe Reinforcement Kit - $140

Euro Center Console Tray - $51

Alcantara Wrapped ZHP Shift Knob with Alcantara Shift Boot- $150

Alcantara Steering Wheel - $415

Aluminum Pedal Set - $84

Dynavin D99+ - $699

Evolve Alpha N Tune - $800

Does anybody else do this with cars they want to own?

DISCUSSION (38)

For Sweden > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 01:09

I think I'd rather have a Mustang for the same money

promoted by the color red > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 01:52

I still have a spreadsheet with Integra mods somewhere. Only got to the shift knob this time, but I'm hoping to go farther next time...

Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 02:03

- Wrecked 3rd gen 4Runner w/ 5VZE and 5 speed. To swap over, of course.

- TRD Supercharger

- Upgraded bumpers

- Paint

- Better lift kit, possibly this: http://www.chaosfab.com/86-95-4WD-Pick…

- Haven't decided

Though I do own my 4Runner.

Doge_Supreme drives a BRZ > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 02:08

Stupid question but why is the intake so much more expensive than a full carbon roof and both cams combined? It seems like that would be one of the cheaper modifications.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies
03/10/2015 at 02:33

That sounds pretty awesome. I've suddenly come around to large offroading SUVs and trucks recently. They look so hilariously fun.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > Doge_Supreme drives a BRZ
03/10/2015 at 02:38

Kinja'd!!!

The intake is actually a pretty large and intricate piece. There's full trumpets inside the intake to feed into the independent throttle bodies. The intake also includes the large snorkel assembly as well. The snorkel has a flap which opens to shunt more air in after a certain amount of throttle is used. I would also assume the roof is easier to craft since it's not structural and it's a simpler shape to construct.

I also forgot to add, the intake is one of the more sought after CSL parts and the vendors know that. They charge a lot since CSL parts are pretty much blacklisted from getting ordered into the US.

Doge_Supreme drives a BRZ > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 02:47

Alright thanks for clarifying that. I did not think it was that complex of a piece. Why are CSL parts blacklisted from the states though?

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > Doge_Supreme drives a BRZ
03/10/2015 at 02:54

The CSL was never sold in the US and only 1389 of them were made. The car came with Pilot Sport Cup tires stock and the buyers could choose between having a radio and HVAC unit or to have a factory delete of both of them. All the buyers had to sign contracts stating they knew the tires would not be safe to use in damp weather. The contract also stated that they were not allowed under any circumstance to sell or order replacement parts for other people to ship outside the countries in which the CSL was sold.

Doge_Supreme drives a BRZ > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 03:01

I see. Sounds like BMW could make a killing off selling CSL parts for the aftermarket though but I understand them wanting to keep things exclusive. I apologize about my lack of knowledge on BMW's though most of the the special production cars I know are Subarus, since they've all I've been driving for the past 6-7 years and the car that started off my interest was my old 99 Impreza. I have taken a strong liking to BMW recently after I had the chance to drive a 1M a few months ago, and may be considering getting one after I graduate, but there's alot of different cars I'm trying to pick from at that point.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > Doge_Supreme drives a BRZ
03/10/2015 at 03:12

Yeah, they'd make a pretty big side-profit just off CSL bootlids. It's one of the most common e46 M3 cosmetic mods.

No worries man. That's what oppo's for! I've learned so much from oppo from the Citroen DS to an appreciation of 911s.

Oh man, I bet that was amazing. I've seen a few 1Ms tooting around town and the want is so strong. Looks like we're in the same position. I'm graduating this semester and I have so many cars I want to purchase when I can gather the funds for a car. I keep switching back and forth between an e46 M3, z4M Coupe, NSX(bit of a stretch), s2000, STi, 996 911, Cayman and Miata. Granted, I'll have to find a job and pay off some student loans first but one can dream.

RPM esq. > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 04:44

Cool to see someone put so much detailed research and thought into a dream car—shows a level of knowledge and research that few owners can probably match. Good luck finding the right car when you graduate (saw your other comment). Since they're not exactly unicorns I imagine you've probably managed to drive an E46 M3 before, and I don't know where you're located, but if you happen to be in the Pacific Northwest and want to talk BMWs/M3s or ride in/drive a fairly pristine (albeit very lightly modified) one, look me up.

I Like Corollas > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 06:55

That's a nice list. What is the Exhaust Manifold Kit? Never heard of that. Also, I would change the Dynavin for an AVINUSA unit, I've heard is better.

I would ad:

RECARO Pole Position Seats

CSL Carbon Fiber Center Console

jkm7680 > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 07:37

Good list, and yes I totally do that. I've got like 10+ wishlists.

CallMeTURBO > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 07:43

I did this with cars I wanted to own all the time, until I actually got an e36 325i. Now it's just a list of all the things I want to do to her. I'm very much in the OEM + group myself, however I have this dream of transplanting that beautiful S54 into my e36 some day.... A guy can dream

GTiceman > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 08:45

Interesting mod list. Planning on basically just CSLing out the car? I know someone that started to go that route through back channels in Germany, he was in the military, and was able to source a few pieces for quite the sum. I think it really depends on what you want to get out of the car. I actually just put a deposit on an e46 M3, always wanted one, and will be flying to pick in up in just about a weeks time for probably one of the most painful drives of my life.

The M3 I am buying is a streetable track car. It has had the interior basically gutted, the HVAC remains but no radio. A bolt-in cage, seats, and harnesses have been added as well as many other things. This is really the sole purpose I am buying the car car actually, as I need a new track rat and I want a ///Moneypit ha. While the CSL items are quite good, they are designed as performance pieces and I just can't see myself having spent that much money on those items then putting my car on a race track.

DeLM > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 09:16

Only if I am seriously buying a car to flip. I do that to my cars though.... I can buy another Miata with the list I have for her. LOL

Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 13:54

They totally are!

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > GTiceman
03/10/2015 at 15:11

Yeah that's the basic plan. I'd skip the front bumper and rear plexi since they're more appearance than function in my opinion. I'd ideally have it as a fun weekend car and occasional track-toy so that's why I'd spring for the CSL bits. If I was going pure track-rat I would rather get Schrick cams and just a Bimmerworld race exhaust system.

That sounds pretty sweet (minus the ride comfort). How long is your drive?

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > RPM esq.
03/10/2015 at 15:16

Thanks man. Yeah, I see them more often than some of other common German cars like c63s and S4s around where I live (California). Truth be told I've only been able to ride in one but it made a very strong impression when I was in it. Thanks for the offer man. Likewise, if you're ever in the Bay Area you can always hit me up as well.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > CallMeTURBO
03/10/2015 at 15:18

A dream that can be a reality! There's a very in depth buildthread on M3Forum by a user who did just that transplant in his garage.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > I Like Corollas
03/10/2015 at 15:22

That's just fresh gaskets and bolts for the header install. It probably didn't need to be on the list but I figured it'd be fun to have a complete list while I was making the list years ago. I will look into the AVINUSA unit.

The seats are a good idea but I'd have Sportster CS seats instead since I'd wanna keep it steetable. The CSL console is a sexy piece but it's so expensive :(

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > jkm7680
03/10/2015 at 15:23

LOL I've got a list for the e9x M3 as well. It's a sickness I tell you.

I Like Corollas > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 15:35

You're right about the seats, Sportster CS are the best option if the car is gonna see a lot of street driving. I just like to think I would turn my E46 M3 into a very track-focused car, with roll bar, harnesses and all that.

Unfortunately, all the CSL parts are as expensive as they are sexy.

Also, if you could pick, what color would your perfect E46 M3 be?

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > I Like Corollas
03/10/2015 at 15:44

Track focused e46 M3 sounds so amazing. It just so happens that I have an irrational love for the e46 M3 so I'd wanna keep her nice and presentable. I would probably get a second one to turn into a stripped out track-rat with full aero and what you listed. Basically one of them would be the classy wife you always come home to and the other is a fully batshit crazy mistress that you only take to certain places.

I'd either want an Alpine White on Cinnamon or Carbon Black on Cinnamon.

I Like Corollas > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 16:12

I'm obsessed about the E46 M3 too, but I wouldn't be able to justify to myself owning such a capable car and not tracking it. My "perfect" M3 would be a kind of GT3RS version, track-focussed but still driveable on the street.

Cinnamon is my all-time favorite interior color, and for the exterior I can't decide wich one I like the most, if Carbon Black or Steel Grey.

jkm7680 > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 16:13

God, I've got so many of them.

CallMeTURBO > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 16:20

haha I'm no stranger to doing things in my garage, did a manual, diff, exhaust, and engine swap 2 months ago. But unfortunately law school is coming up so I'm out of time and money lol.

Hopefully in the future though, those ITBs to the CSL intake is just straight porn and I want it

GTiceman > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 16:46

Actually the CSL front bumper is quite functional. So long as you put all the other bits on. My only concern was brake cooling.

My drive will be around 14 hours total spread over a few days. My girlfriend must really love me to ride that distance with me.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > GTiceman
03/10/2015 at 17:23

Yeah that's what I meant in terms of the bumper. The dedicated intake ducting is nice but the brake cooling is gone as a result. I've seen some guys in fog-light deletes to make the CSL snorkel work while keeping brake cooling.

She definitely sounds like a keeper.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > I Like Corollas
03/10/2015 at 17:26

That's definitely true. A GT3RS version is pretty close to what I was aiming for with this list. Going FI would be a lot cheaper than getting the CSL parts but it wouldn't be the same ethos.

Steel Grey and Carbon Black would also be one of the tougher choices to decide between. They both just work so well with the body lines and curves of the car.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > CallMeTURBO
03/10/2015 at 17:28

Holy cow, you did a diff in your garage? That's very impressive! I was always under the impression you needed certain tools to get diff work done.

CallMeTURBO > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 17:34

honestly my friend did it while I was painting my bumper, but he had my old one out in about an hour, dropped it on the floor jack and lifted the new one into place. I helped him put it back into place but I think it was a matter of making sure the output shafts were lined up properly.

CallMeTURBO > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 17:38

He did most of the technical stuff before it was ready to come down and I helped from there. though we did need some torx sockets if i remember correctly

I Like Corollas > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 17:45

The S54 with the CSL stuff is one hell of an engine, and together with a lighter chassis I think it would result in a pretty fast and balanced car, so no reason to go FI, and that intake sound is just too good.

GTiceman > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/10/2015 at 19:28

Well depending on the climate depends on whether cooling is needed. The CSL does take cooling into account. This past year I was on track at Pocono and actually had to consider covering my intakes because the brakes couldn't keep heat in them.

AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC > GTiceman
03/10/2015 at 22:13

Hmm very interesting. I will have to do more research on that now.

Rows His Own > AddictedToM3s - Drives a GC
03/29/2015 at 10:33

Those trumpets are the same inside the regular E46 M3 intake. The bulk of the CSL's uprated power comes from cams and the fact that there is no MAF. I went through the NA power hunt with my E46 M3. If you want power, stroking, swapping, or boosting are the only options. Even the most modded N/A M3 will make roughly 350-360whp, and you'll easily spend 20 grand, which is what a 60k mile example will go for roughly. Want a faster N/A M3? TCKline or Ohlins coils, light 18x10 squared wheels like TE37 or ARC10, 275/35r18 R888s, lighter seats, IAP headers, intake, rogue engineering exhaust, tune. Don't try down the path of a billion mods like I did. You'll end up bored or burnt out with the car. Guaranteed. Especially when a stock one with the cheapest supercharger and decent tires will smoke it outright.

Rows His Own > GTiceman
03/29/2015 at 10:34

The car gets terrible power gains per dollar. Stick to weight, drivetrain, and suspension.