my 5th bmw

[magicandmisc]

Here is my latest addition.......
1990 325i
I just picked up the car a couple of weeks ago
It came with:
M3 springs and Bilstien Touring Struts
Dinan Chip
New ReUphostery
Sony Head Unit with Sony Speakers
And Gun Metal Basket Weaves
Hella H1/H4 Conversion Headlights.
Everything is working on the car right now and im getting 178whp so im pretty happy with that.
I plan on replacing the driver's side impact strip and fog light lense and thats about it for the cosmetics.
I have about $2000 to spend on this car so I am open to any suggestions and comments about my car.
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/DSCF0845.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/DSCF0844.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/DSCF0841.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/DSCF0848.jpg

[OneSlow5pt0]

i like it

[turb0teg]

so why did you get rid of all the other ones?

[Josh...]

I have about $2000 to spend on this car so I am open to any suggestions and comments about my car.

Coilovers. Not springs, not sleeves, but coilovers.

[Benefit]

i love e30's

[sogood]

Coilovers. Not springs, not sleeves, but coilovers.

:werd:

I'd get an IS front chin spoiler and an IS rear trunk lip spoiler, too.

[magicandmisc]

yea i was thinking about the 'is' lip spoilers

[Crazy Asian]

dude you need some bad ass rims. Seriously those mesh...never work on the bmw unless there BBS. I've always like the 5 spoke massive lip on those cars.

[magicandmisc]

yea i was thinking about rims, but i would like to focus more on the mechanics of the car rather than the cosmetics (when talking about spending a lot of money)

[GSRteg®]

I like it man. :goodjob:

[ironchef]

Looks to be in good shape for a 17 year old car, good luck with it.

[Fr33way]

I think the car looks badass as is.

[quickdodge®]

I have about $2000 to spend on this car so I am open to any suggestions and comments about my car.

Don't do shit to it.

Except removing the Georgia plate. Takes away from the car. Seriously. Anything more will be a waste. Car is beautiful as it sits. Later, QD.

[Sol-Badguy]

I'm going to have a agree with QD.
Mod it, and the value will drop on such a nice car.

[joesblk_teg]

slam it IMO

[turb0teg]

ground control coilovers, then take them off for the next E30 when you sell it.

[cactusEG]

thats a fucking nice BMW...

[OneSlow5pt0]

i agree w/ QD too,to nice of a car....and i like the wheels

[magicandmisc]

thanks

[magicandmisc]

Washed and Waxed today
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna041.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna043.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna040.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna029.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna031.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna030.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna032.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna034.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna033.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna035.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna036.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna038.jpg
My Girlfriend...
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e247/magicandmischief182/bmw2deanna024.jpg

[VooDooXII]

Ah, I love e30's. This one looks awesome and it's already got some good stuff in it. If anything, I'd just put a little lip spoiler on it...but otherwise, this car is perfect.

:goodjob:

[speedminded]

Really good tires (Azenis 615's, etc.), upgraded [anti-] sway/roll bars, IS lip...it will practically be a differant car.

If you really want differant wheels i'd suggest the team dynamics or oem E36 M3's :goodjob:

[TRDwasiq]

FRont bumper

[magicandmisc]

Ah, I love e30's. This one looks awesome and it's already got some good stuff in it. If anything, I'd just put a little lip spoiler on it...but otherwise, this car is perfect.

:goodjob:
Thanks!

Really good tires (Azenis 615's, etc.), upgraded [anti-] sway/roll bars, IS lip...it will practically be a differant car.

If you really want differant wheels i'd suggest the team dynamics or oem E36 M3's :goodjob:
i would love e46 m3 wheels, but i have to think 4 lug
and im thinking about the IS lip spoiler for the rear but it would scrape everywhere i drive if i had the front one.

FRont bumper
it just needs an impact strip for the drivers side

[quicksylver]

Unless you do a 5-lug conversion(pretty expensive) you're kinda limited on wheels, there are sometimes good looking stuff on ebay...other than that you're shit out of luck....Nice car BTW... if its got an open diff, i'de change it, a little suspension work and that may be it...my boy just finished his 5-lug conversion on a 91 325is, we dropped an S50 eng in there too, little shit moves...there's a lot you can do, just depends on the pockets and if you feel the car is worth putting all that money into it....good luck! here is my boys car.

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n212/quicksylverm3/E30S50Swap007.jpg

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n212/quicksylverm3/DSCN3960.jpg

[magicandmisc]

damn sexy

[Nissangeek]

Gorgeous car. Always loved the E30s. They make good rally cars with a little work. I'd keep the look mostly stock but beef up the suspension and engine and keep the wheels.

[AnTi-PooN]

boost it

[magicandmisc]

boost it
after college, im trying to keep my mods under $2K

[Driftk1d350z]

sweet ass car! love all your other bimmers but this one is top notch!

[snatch]

i love e30s.

[Hundo®]

best advice you'll get: to avoid wasting money on foreign over priced parts and obvious problems that will happen, SELL IT.

[sleepys4]

^^lol at that, i have been there.. But i like the BMW. I say better wheels and tires and some suspension work and your set. Good look with everything. Also do you know Logan.

[Jin]

With 2 grand you wont get an S50-S52 but stuff a non vanos M50 in that bitch.

Best 2 grand you'll ever spend.

Clean car. I love e30's.

[Pavlo]

Thats really nice, I used to have a 325e, I actually still have the is spoiler that was supposed to go on it, let me know if you want it.
E30s are really awesome cars.

[magicandmisc]

Thats really nice, I used to have a 325e, I actually still have the is spoiler that was supposed to go on it, let me know if you want it.
E30s are really awesome cars.
yea, i want it, what color is it?

[DinanM3atl]

Unless you do a 5-lug conversion(pretty expensive) you're kinda limited on wheels, there are sometimes good looking stuff on ebay...other than that you're shit out of luck....Nice car BTW... if its got an open diff, i'de change it, a little suspension work and that may be it...my boy just finished his 5-lug conversion on a 91 325is, we dropped an S50 eng in there too, little shit moves...there's a lot you can do, just depends on the pockets and if you feel the car is worth putting all that money into it....good luck! here is my boys car.

5 Lug conversion is a bling mod. It is pointless and stupid. What does it give you? A better choice of wheels that are too big for the car?

The car will handle better on 15s than it will on 17s. 225.50.15 in either an Azenis 615 or Hankook zz2 is what you need and all you need. Rims that fit this size tires are plentiful. In fact I have one set on my e30 now and another set in my garage. 16s are even just a touch too bi but not too bad.

and while your boys car does look decent. The wheels look way too big and it is jacked up now... 15s on a slammed e30 with 225 tires tucked is the way to go if you are going for looks.

If you are going for performance then 15s with 225s and a decent spring/shock combo with some upgraded sways and replace all the bushings so they are fresh is the way to go.

Cliff Notes:

5 Lug swap on e30 is for bling. There is no real benefit.

[DinanM3atl]

best advice you'll get: to avoid wasting money on foreign over priced parts and obvious problems that will happen, SELL IT.

Are you retarded? I think that is the most uneducated single dumbest post I have ever read.

Please explain sir? I would LOVE to here your response...

My 89 325i has 200,000 miles. Everything works. It passed emissions with 1/20 of the limits. It gets almost 30mpg on the highway(I bet that is better that that shit box 350z in your sig)

PLEASE explain your retarded comments. PLEASE!

[magicandmisc]

thanks for your input dinan

[DR_Imports]

I'd just say keep the car as simple/clean as u can:

- 16" rims
- Lose the windows tint
- always keep it wash/waxed
- h.i.d
- trunk spoiler (small M3 one)

[magicandmisc]

best advice you'll get: to avoid wasting money on foreign over priced parts and obvious problems that will happen, SELL IT.
im sure the parts for my car are cheaper than your parts

[DinanM3atl]

im sure the parts for my car are cheaper than your parts

No way man...

he has a "FairladyZ" baby!!!

[Driftk1d350z]

No way man...

he has a "FairladyZ" baby!!!

lol parts for the Z are prettyyy expensive, trust me...i know

[DinanM3atl]

lol parts for the Z are prettyyy expensive, trust me...i know

I was being "sarcastic"

[quicksylver]

5 Lug conversion is a bling mod. It is pointless and stupid. What does it give you? A better choice of wheels that are too big for the car?

The car will handle better on 15s than it will on 17s. 225.50.15 in either an Azenis 615 or Hankook zz2 is what you need and all you need. Rims that fit this size tires are plentiful. In fact I have one set on my e30 now and another set in my garage. 16s are even just a touch too bi but not too bad.

and while your boys car does look decent. The wheels look way too big and it is jacked up now... 15s on a slammed e30 with 225 tires tucked is the way to go if you are going for looks.

If you are going for performance then 15s with 225s and a decent spring/shock combo with some upgraded sways and replace all the bushings so they are fresh is the way to go.

Cliff Notes:

5 Lug swap on e30 is for bling. There is no real benefit.

I totally agree that 5-lug swap on a E30 is a complete bling job. We did it because most of the parts came from his brothers' donner car, otherwise it would've been ridiculous to pay for. as far as the wheels, yeah they're a little big but this particular car was jacked up a little to accomodate the 255 on the rear wheels. he's working on getting coilovers, smaller tires and lowering the car some.

[Kalifornia087]

Exhaust and intake... Because they sound goooood with exhaust.

Then sway bars, and some good tires. And really thats it. That care is dope ass clean.

-Austin

[IndianStig]

Get a header, exhaust, m3 intake with k&n filter, and some sways. I'd say get a larger front sway then rear to balance the car out (ie. 27mm front, 22mm rear)

Put $400 towards getting some nice brakes before all that.

[JDMrequired]

slam it IMO

...agreed. slam that bitch & get a new front bumper & that motherfucker will be clean as hell

[Thighs]

I WANT YOUR CAR BAD

[magicandmisc]

I WANT YOUR CAR BAD
how did you find this thread?

[Thighs]

lol theres a link in your sig.

[BlkCD5]

suspension and minor bolt ons. :2cents:

[puregroove]

I miss my '85... good choice, man...love it.

[speedminded]

You could get a 2.7 liter block from the 325e for a couple hundred and make it a 327i with quite a bit more torque...or an m50/52 conversion for around your budget :D

The only reason i'm doing a 5-lug conversion is to put the power to the ground without breaking anything! Plus the e36/z3m conversion gives you TONS more options on suspension and wheels/offsets.

[speedminded]

Suspension and wheels is what makes an e30 look good.

http://www.e30tech.com/pictures/mtriple/001.JPG


Then sometimes body matched molding too...

http://luntti.1g.fi/kuvat/Autot/P.E.T.E+E30/30.8+07+008.jpg/medium

[puregroove]

^^yum...

[koolaidman]

lol this thread is almost a year old

whats it look like now jeff?

[speedminded]

lol this thread is almost a year old

whats it look like now jeff?oh wait, is this the car that had a "euro sited" thread main about it? searching now...

[PURP]

Sh1ts clean dude. Not a big BMW fan but i'd own this one. Props to you. Lower it and change the wheels

[speedminded]

oh wait, is this the car that had a "euro sited" thread main about it? searching now...nm, no window tint so doubt it's the same car. Headlights and wheels are easy to change but doubt the tint was removed...

http://www.importatlanta.com/forums/showthread.php?t=153750

[magicandmisc]

I do not have any recent pictures because I haven't really done much to it cosmetically. I have mostly spent money on the performance. I have put a cold air intake on it, cat back exhaust and strut bar. Oh, and I bought some half way decent tires.

[Autofab]

5 Lug conversion is a bling mod. It is pointless and stupid. What does it give you? A better choice of wheels that are too big for the car?

The car will handle better on 15s than it will on 17s. 225.50.15 in either an Azenis 615 or Hankook zz2 is what you need and all you need. Rims that fit this size tires are plentiful. In fact I have one set on my e30 now and another set in my garage. 16s are even just a touch too bi but not too bad.

and while your boys car does look decent. The wheels look way too big and it is jacked up now... 15s on a slammed e30 with 225 tires tucked is the way to go if you are going for looks.

If you are going for performance then 15s with 225s and a decent spring/shock combo with some upgraded sways and replace all the bushings so they are fresh is the way to go.

Cliff Notes:

5 Lug swap on e30 is for bling. There is no real benefit.


Halston do you even know what you are talking about.... You must be a dumb ass. Sorry but PLEASE shut up....! I mean think about your options on Wheels/Offsets, Susspension/Bigger Brakes! No real benefits :screwy: OK...




The only reason i'm doing a 5-lug conversion is to put the power to the ground without breaking anything! Plus the e36/z3m conversion gives you TONS more options on suspension and wheels/offsets.

I know right. I have DS2's with 245 on the rear and im putting down 360hp to the wheels and 440 foot pounds of torque, run's 11.6 in the quarter and spinning tires all the way down the track....! And trust me even after the 5-lug im still having traction issues. Im sure it would alot worse. All i have to say is drift car:D

[DinanM3atl]

Really... Where are the wheel limitations? You just don't know of any of the wheels available or they actually don't exist? I think most of the e30 forums would disagree with this statement. Sure it might be a little cheaper to grab up some OEM wheels that don't fit properly and slap them on there and run 245s out back which don't fit either but it certainly has boat lots of more traction than 235s on properly fitted wheels right?

What suspension? You can get coilovers to shocks and springs. JUST like a 4 lug car. So again WHAT is the limitation? You could run motons on an e30 with race springs. The amount of lug bolts you have has ZERO bearing on what suspension fits or is possible. Hell Ground Control makes a Track kit for 1400 dollars. So what is the problem here?

What about brakes? Hmmm these would seem to work just find in one of the many 15 or 16" wheels available for the e30 in the correct offset...

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/PBC/images/E30_BBK_600.jpg

5 lugs doesn't give you more traction... I don't know where you came up with that idea... That just doesn't make any sense. How does adding 1 lug per corner give you more traction?

The name calling really isn't necessary. When you get right down to it you do NOT need to do a 5 lug swap. Sure you may have some cheaper options in wheels but the 4x100 has a BOAT load of wheels in varying offsets and some without the proper offset can be made to fit with some proper spacers from H&R with the Trak series. There are suspension options.

Bottom line is you can build a badass car without doing a 5 lug. End of the story.

More than likely you wont' be sheering off wheel bolts so I don't see how 5 lugs is going to stop you from breaking stuff. You may break some axles but there are plenty of e30 guys running the stock stuff out back with some decent power.

[speedminded]

Really... Where are the wheel limitations? You just don't know of any of the wheels available or they actually don't exist? I think most of the e30 forums would disagree with this statement. Sure it might be a little cheaper to grab up some OEM wheels that don't fit properly and slap them on there and run 245s out back which don't fit either but it certainly has boat lots of more traction than 235s on properly fitted wheels right?

What suspension? You can get coilovers to shocks and springs. JUST like a 4 lug car. So again WHAT is the limitation? You could run motons on an e30 with race springs. The amount of lug bolts you have has ZERO bearing on what suspension fits or is possible. Hell Ground Control makes a Track kit for 1400 dollars. So what is the problem here?

What about brakes? Hmmm these would seem to work just find in one of the many 15 or 16" wheels available for the e30 in the correct offset...

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/PBC/images/E30_BBK_600.jpg

5 lugs doesn't give you more traction... I don't know where you came up with that idea... That just doesn't make any sense. How does adding 1 lug per corner give you more traction?

The name calling really isn't necessary. When you get right down to it you do NOT need to do a 5 lug swap. Sure you may have some cheaper options in wheels but the 4x100 has a BOAT load of wheels in varying offsets and some without the proper offset can be made to fit with some proper spacers from H&R with the Trak series. There are suspension options.

Bottom line is you can build a badass car without doing a 5 lug. End of the story.

More than likely you wont' be sheering off wheel bolts so I don't see how 5 lugs is going to stop you from breaking stuff. You may break some axles but there are plenty of e30 guys running the stock stuff out back with some decent power.In this particular situation it's not needed unless he plans to put big numbers down or even up to 300+hp it may be ok.
I've seen countless axles on the forums sheered at the hub on stock e30's running higher power setups.

The e36/z3m suspension is a later and updated design used on several different models for over a decade after the e30. The debate will never end between what is better on the track though because it's up to the driver. Would anyone agree the e36/z3m suspension is more predictable?

Obviously 4, 5, or 8+ lugs isn't going to give you more traction but it all depends on what wheels you want to put on it, and what you have available, and what you can get cheap...

As for upgraded brakes, I bet my COMPLETE 5 lug conversion including the M Coupe rear and the '97 M3 front subframe, suspension, and M3 brakes is less than HALF the price of that brake kit......oh yeah, came with a '90 e30 M3 4.10 LSD diff too so subtract what I can sell that for and I'll have pocket change into my entire conversion ;)

[DinanM3atl]

It very well may be and you probably stumbled upon it. I am arguing the fact of someone calling me a dumbass like I don't know what I am talking about. If you got all that for 450 dollars I would say you got a heck of a deal.

What I was replying to is the false information. There ARE suspensions available, there ARE wheels available and there ARE brakes available. You can make a VERY capable car while maintaining the 4 lug. Look around they exist.Hell look at Thomas, he runs Hawk Blues on stock e30 brakes with no cooling and look how capable it is...

Sure there are more options, some even may be cheaper, but what Thomas said is false. Let alone running those 17" Contours and the unsprung weight they bring with them. On top of that wider tires do not automatically equal more traction. I don't have the time but just go look at McCoy's tire threads but wider doesn't equal more traction. There is more than tire width when you are looking for maximum traction.

I don't just go for what is "cheap". I won't put heavy 17" wheels on a car that runs best with 15s or 16s. If I am going to run a 17" wheel I will atleast get it in the proper offset which +41 is NOT the proper offset and something that is lightweight.



I know right. I have DS2's with 245 on the rear and im putting down 360hp to the wheels and 440 foot pounds of torque, run's 11.6 in the quarter and spinning tires all the way down the track....! And trust me even after the 5-lug im still having traction issues. Im sure it would alot worse. All i have to say is drift car

What does that read to you? That reads that even after he did the 5 lug he has traction issues and that it would be a lot worse if it was 4 lug. That is why I replied that the amount of lugs have nothing to do with the traction.

Maybe it is poor tire choice coupled with an IRS which is not the best for a drag racing situation. It is not horrible but it certainly is not the best. Improper air pressure or wrong rear springs and shocks. There is way more to this equation then worrying about how many lugs you have on the car.

Let me rephrase what I said. MOST of the time doing a 5 lug swap on an e30 is for bling. So you can tell people that you did a 5 lug. Yes there are exceptions to this rule of course as nothing is set in stone. Maybe you want to run a certain wheel and it is not made in 4 lug so you MUST do the 5 lug to mount it up. However if you are going racing then it really is not needed. Look at the drift car they worked on. 4 lug with larger brakes and 16 wheels. Works fine.

I like Thomas(and you Jason) but I am just not going to be called names by someone that said putting 100 octane race fuel in added power when running it in a stock M20. Sorry.

[speedminded]

It very well may be and you probably stumbled upon it. I am arguing the fact of someone calling me a dumbass like I don't know what I am talking about. If you got all that for 450 dollars I would say you got a heck of a deal.Only $900 for that brake kit? That's pretty good! It's going to cost me that much to build mine with the Porsche calipers. I found the 5-lug conversion for $800 including the diff then should be able to sell it for at least $400...so yeah $400 or less for everything! I've heard of people spending up to $3,000 for a 5 lug conversion, lol! I'll still need coil-overs or may go with the complete E36 H/I-stock kit from Turner, not sure...see what sponsors are willing to do first!


For non-track driving I want to run OEM BMW wheels, either M-parallels, Road stars, or the Style 5 BBS RS from the 528i sport. Of course those wheels will only work/look good if on an e30 with flares or maybe have the wheel shaved to change the offset...

[kendogg]

Goddamnit, now I've been sucked into this too :sigh



5 Lug conversion is a bling mod. It is pointless and stupid. What does it give you? A better choice of wheels that are too big for the car?

The car will handle better on 15s than it will on 17s. 225.50.15 in either an Azenis 615 or Hankook zz2 is what you need and all you need. Rims that fit this size tires are plentiful. In fact I have one set on my e30 now and another set in my garage. 16s are even just a touch too bi but not too bad.

and while your boys car does look decent. The wheels look way too big and it is jacked up now... 15s on a slammed e30 with 225 tires tucked is the way to go if you are going for looks.

If you are going for performance then 15s with 225s and a decent spring/shock combo with some upgraded sways and replace all the bushings so they are fresh is the way to go.

Cliff Notes:

5 Lug swap on e30 is for bling. There is no real benefit.


I will agree that nine times out of 10, when a 5 lug is done, it's done as a 'bling', or mod-list mod. Something to attach nicer, or bigger wheels to. However, there are times and ways when swapping to the E36ti/MZ3 suspension can be beneficial.




Halston do you even know what you are talking about.... You must be a dumb ass. Sorry but PLEASE shut up....! I mean think about your options on Wheels/Offsets, Susspension/Bigger Brakes! No real benefits :screwy: OK...


I know right. I have DS2's with 245 on the rear and im putting down 360hp to the wheels and 440 foot pounds of torque, run's 11.6 in the quarter and spinning tires all the way down the track....! And trust me even after the 5-lug im still having traction issues. Im sure it would alot worse. All i have to say is drift car:D


I'll totally agree, as I stated above, that the 5-lug conversion does increase your options in available wheel sizes. Will they be correct or 'proper' for every application though?? No. That is something that needs to be decided by the owner of the car.


Same goes for bigger brakes. Simply swapping in 318ti or MZ3 brakes all around isn't a very good substitute for the stock brakes of the car, it effects the brake bias (obviously, because the vehicles are different dimensions, weights, etc., and require different amounts of braking forces at the front vs the rear of the vehicle). This was demonstrated one day when I was following you and Geoff on 85N right after you did your 5-lug swap - you went to hit the brakes, and your rears locked up – forcing you into the next lane to the left. Thankfully, you're an experienced driver, and you were able t handle it just fine. However, recommending things like this to people who may not be as experienced as you may be a means to disaster.


Suspension – as far as I'm aware, front springs/struts are of quite similar design between both vehicles, and rear geometry is identical between both setups. Eccentrics are available for the rear for camber and toe adjustment. This isn't going to change regardless what setup you have on the vehicle. Front suspension is still a modified McPherson strut – there are camber plates available for both, offset LCAB's, etc., so again, front alignment adjustability isn't a question for either setup either – both are fully available, and roughly the same price between both vehicles.


However, when it comes to springs/shocks – Simply swapping in E36 parts into an E30 isn't the right way to go either. Kinda like how I referred to the brake issues when simply swapping from one vehicle to another. Springs rates for packaged springs (example: H&R Race springs, a matched set F&R) are going to be a different front vs. rear for an E36 ti, MZ3, and an E30. This isn't optimal for handling. Same for shock/strut valving, these won't be optimal fr the vehicle either. Pricing is a bit more expensive for both springs and shocks (brand new, retail) than they are for an E30, and are of the same basic design. There is no added benefit here.


As far as your power claim goes – have a dyno graph or a timeslip to scan and show by chance?? A video from the strip would be preferred, but I understand, I myself included, rarely have a video camera onhand for anything worthwhile.



Really... Where are the wheel limitations? You just don't know of any of the wheels available or they actually don't exist? I think most of the e30 forums would disagree with this statement. Sure it might be a little cheaper to grab up some OEM wheels that don't fit properly and slap them on there and run 245s out back which don't fit either but it certainly has boat lots of more traction than 235s on properly fitted wheels right?

What suspension? You can get coilovers to shocks and springs. JUST like a 4 lug car. So again WHAT is the limitation? You could run motons on an e30 with race springs. The amount of lug bolts you have has ZERO bearing on what suspension fits or is possible. Hell Ground Control makes a Track kit for 1400 dollars. So what is the problem here?

What about brakes? Hmmm these would seem to work just find in one of the many 15 or 16" wheels available for the e30 in the correct offset...
http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/PBC/images/E30_BBK_600.jpg

5 lugs doesn't give you more traction... I don't know where you came up with that idea... That just doesn't make any sense. How does adding 1 lug per corner give you more traction?

The name calling really isn't necessary. When you get right down to it you do NOT need to do a 5 lug swap. Sure you may have some cheaper options in wheels but the 4x100 has a BOAT load of wheels in varying offsets and some without the proper offset can be made to fit with some proper spacers from H&R with the Trak series. There are suspension options.

Bottom line is you can build a badass car without doing a 5 lug. End of the story.

More than likely you wont' be sheering off wheel bolts so I don't see how 5 lugs is going to stop you from breaking stuff. You may break some axles but there are plenty of e30 guys running the stock stuff out back with some decent power.


The UUC big brake kit is still up in the air as to if it lives up to it's claims or not – AFAIK, there hasn't been any un-biased testing or results.



In this particular situation it's not needed unless he plans to put big numbers down or even up to 300+hp it may be ok.
I've seen countless axles on the forums sheered at the hub on stock e30's running higher power setups.

The e36/z3m suspension is a later and updated design used on several different models for over a decade after the e30. The debate will never end between what is better on the track though because it's up to the driver. Would anyone agree the e36/z3m suspension is more predictable?

Obviously 4, 5, or 8+ lugs isn't going to give you more traction but it all depends on what wheels you want to put on it, and what you have available, and what you can get cheap...

As for upgraded brakes, I bet my COMPLETE 5 lug conversion including the M Coupe rear and the '97 M3 front subframe, suspension, and M3 brakes is less than HALF the price of that brake kit......oh yeah, came with a '90 e30 M3 4.10 LSD diff too so subtract what I can sell that for and I'll have pocket change into my entire conversion ;)


Axles can break on a stock E30 from hard drag strip launches. It's not rocket science than these cars were not designed for drag racing from a dig, and the IRS is a limitation.


I'd like to know where you got your information of the newer E36ti/MZ3 being 'updated'. As I stated above, the rear geometry is identical, and the front can be adjusted to be very, very close to the same range of adjustability, depending on what parts/bushings, etc. are used. The only difference is in the rear – the rear trailing arms, and possibly the subframe, are a bit stiffer, proving for less movement of those parts. However, Thomas isn't having that issue either, as his are reinforced quite well (Thanks again Thomas, for doing mine like this as well ;)).


And no, I don't agree - the E36 chassis itself is more predictable – not the MZ3 or 318ti cars. 325, 328, M3, etc. - the newer, re-designed E36 rear suspension geometry is what makes those cars more predictable, not the ti/MZ3 rear subframe and arms. They are twitchy as well, any differences will be in the chassis, NOT the suspension geometry – because it's the same. Ask ANY MZ3 owner, and they'll tell you the same thing.


You won't get $400 for a small case 4.10, unless you sell it local to a fool. If so – sell mine too, and I'll buy another for what they really cost :)

[DinanM3atl]

Try the 7 series 16" wheels in 5 lug. Airik ran them on his white e30. DOPE!!!

[speedminded]

Try the 7 series 16" wheels in 5 lug. Airik ran them on his white e30. DOPE!!!Yep, and that car now has an S50 in it :yumyum:

[DinanM3atl]

Oh yes! Nice!

[speedminded]

You won't get $400 for a small case 4.10, unless you sell it local to a fool. If so – sell mine too, and I'll buy another for what they really cost :)Looks like you're right, i was told the 4.10 rearend w/ axles, etc. from the e30 M3 was worth $500...there's a diff on bimmer forums that's been hit with few broken fins for $300 but the rest are in the $200-250 range. Seem to be going for $300 on dtmpower & e30tech too. As long as I can get a 2.93 LSD out of it I don't care how much it brings! :)

[kendogg]

Looks like you're right, i was told the 4.10 rearend w/ axles, etc. from the e30 M3 was worth $500...there's a diff on bimmer forums that's been hit with few broken fins for $300 but the rest are in the $200-250 range. Seem to be going for $300 on dtmpower & e30tech too. As long as I can get a 2.93 LSD out of it I don't care how much it brings! :)

Clarification - E30 M3 is a medium case diff, not a small case, my mistake, I dind't see it was from an M3. This should bring a few mor dollars, but I can't see people paying more than $25-$50 over what a small case would go for.

[DinanM3atl]

I think you get slightly more for the M3. Prolly because there is an "M" in there haha

[magicandmisc]

umm.......damn

[matthewAPM]

coilovers, exhaust, swaybars, and tires. keep the wheels.

keep it clean and simple

[DinanM3atl]

umm.......damn

It blew up :)

So do you see you don't need a 5 lug? :boobies:

[kendogg]

coilovers, exhaust, swaybars, and tires. keep the wheels.

keep it clean and simple

Thats keeping it simple??? :???:

[matthewAPM]

Thats keeping it simple??? :???:

yeah?

[DinanM3atl]

Now now now Kenneth! hehehe

What a fun thread! Pwnage, Negative Rep and Love to go around!

[kendogg]

yeah?

Coilovers aren't 'keeping it simple', and neither are swaybars. Coilovers are going to be very driver-dependant,a nd I'd bet money that a majority of drivers CANNOT outdrive the car with a properly setup shock/spring combo, such as the Turner J-Stock setup. And swaybars - E30's need a large front bar due to the camber curves of the front suspension geometry, and the necessity of a rear bar is going to vary widely on the drivers driving style, and springs/shocks.

thanks for the neg douchbucket.

[matthewAPM]

Coilovers aren't 'keeping it simple', and neither are swaybars. Coilovers are going to be very driver-dependant,a nd I'd bet money that a majority of drivers CANNOT outdrive the car with a properly setup shock/spring combo, such as the Turner J-Stock setup. And swaybars - E30's need a large front bar due to the camber curves of the front suspension geometry, and the necessity of a rear bar is going to vary widely on the drivers driving style, and springs/shocks.

thanks for the neg douchbucket.

NO PROBLEM!

if this was his track car, i would said use the shock/spring. but if u are going for looks, get coilovers and drop that thing. swaybars are not a crazy idea. yes for the front bar. rear bar, either get one or take it off all together.

LMAO at u talking about making this into a HPDE car

[DinanM3atl]

Ken but I drive over 80mph on the highway and I have ran a driver school! I NEED coilovers and R Comps and Sway Bars and An S38!!!

[kendogg]

NO PROBLEM!

if this was his track car, i would said use the shock/spring. but if u are going for looks, get coilovers and drop that thing. swaybars are not a crazy idea. yes for the front bar. rear bar, either get one or take it off all together.

LMAO at u talking about making this into a HPDE car

I never mentioned anything about making it an HPDE car. The PO's budget, needs, abilities, driving style, etc. are all determining factors of what should be purchased, regardless of what 'looks' best.

I'm not familiar with how low coilovers are on E30's, but I'd be shocked if coilovers could get much lower than the shortest set of springs. I hate how low my E30 sits currently with it's retardedly-soft Eibachs's, I'd want to kill myself probably every day if it were any lower. It's already impossible to drive in some places.

[matthewAPM]

I never mentioned anything about making it an HPDE car. The PO's budget, needs, abilities, driving style, etc. are all determining factors of what should be purchased, regardless of what 'looks' best.

I'm not familiar with how low coilovers are on E30's, but I'd be shocked if coilovers could get much lower than the shortest set of springs. I hate how low my E30 sits currently with it's retardedly-soft Eibachs's, I'd want to kill myself probably every day if it were any lower. It's already impossible to drive in some places.

driving style, over driving suspension? u dont do that on the street.

and talk about being low? i got a good 3 in. and it is going lower SOON

[DinanM3atl]

Low does not equal handling...

[kendogg]

driving style, over driving suspension? u dont do that on the street.

and talk about being low? i got a good 3 in. and it is going lower SOON

Again, it depends on the driver. I know plenty of people who drive their cars as fast and as hard as humanly possible on the streets every day. Intelligent - no, but hence my statement that it depends on the drivers needs what they buy.

[matthewAPM]

Low does not equal handling...

no sh!t. i dont test for nothing. front bar is coming off and 2 turns on coilovers in rear to get a little more camber.

[OnURleft]

Coilovers aren't 'keeping it simple', and neither are swaybars. Coilovers are going to be very driver-dependant,a nd I'd bet money that a majority of drivers CANNOT outdrive the car with a properly setup shock/spring combo, such as the Turner J-Stock setup. And swaybars - E30's need a large front bar due to the camber curves of the front suspension geometry, and the necessity of a rear bar is going to vary widely on the drivers driving style, and springs/shocks.

thanks for the neg douchbucket.

+1

I'd also like to state that if your doing a 5-lug for the street your doing it for the bling factor. If your doing it for any other reason your doing it to get more grip, more brakes and more wheel choices to stick to the track pavement. An E30 at the track with anything short of an S50 will not have a 5-lug if it is set up right. The crew I roll with at the track has a 235whp S52 obd1 E30 which played the 4 lug +Borbets + Hawk blues etc. etc. etc card for awhile but was upgraded to 5 lug so it would actually stop and turn as fast as it wanted to. You don't just upgrade to 5 lug for bling...yes its common but when your making x hp more then stock you need x sized brakes, wider rims, less balloon like sideways etc. etc. Look at the IP cars or those phsyco S54 2002's or E30's. They don't run on 15's for a reason now.

[matthewAPM]

+1

I'd also like to state that if your doing a 5-lug for the street your doing it for the bling factor. If your doing it for any other reason your doing it to get more grip, more brakes and more wheel choices to stick to the track pavement. An E30 at the track with anything short of an S50 will not have a 5-lug if it is set up right. The crew I roll with at the track has a 235whp S52 obd1 E30 which played the 4 lug +Borbets + Hawk blues etc. etc. etc card for awhile but was upgraded to 5 lug so it would actually stop and turn as fast as it wanted to.

4 sho. Ian, PM me about that job. phone died and i cant find the charger:thinking:

[OnURleft]

4 sho. Ian, PM me about that job. phone died and i cant find the charger:thinking:

how am i suppose to get you hired if you cant even be questioned for the questioning about the job.

[matthewAPM]

how am i suppose to get you hired if you cant even be questioned for the questioning about the job.

:cry:

[OnURleft]

O.P. Get a factory IS lip. Bimmerdawg can get you one on Bimmerforums.com. They are a very hot/rare piece that looks very sick. Also a factory rear lip would be hot paired with some sort of cat-back. That would really set it off from the back (magnaflow sounds great) look at Tabasco's car if you want to see a sick E30. Also some Corbeau A4 seats would not only take out 100+ lbs but really set off the interior.

[DinanM3atl]

How does bimmerdawg get OEM iS lips? You can order from dealer for a touch over 1 bill... Do you know something I don't Ian?

[matthewAPM]

How does bimmerdawg get OEM iS lips? You can order from dealer for a touch over 1 bill... Do you know something I don't Ian?

:yes:

[OnURleft]

How does bimmerdawg get OEM iS lips? You can order from dealer for a touch over 1 bill... Do you know something I don't Ian?

Maybe i'm crazy. I just remember in my E30 days Tabasco's E30 had that lip that was really hard to find....maybe it wasn't (this was 2 years ago haha) and Geodie was like I got them..painted..

[DinanM3atl]

Oh it prolly wasn't an iS lip. Prolly something a bit different.

[OnURleft]

Oh it prolly wasn't an iS lip. Prolly something a bit different.

your prob right. Look on Tabasco's car. Its hot. I just tried for 5 min to pull pics of it for everyone but can't find any threads with pics.

[DinanM3atl]

I know :)

[DinanM3atl]

That debate was quick.

[kerndog8]

What a fun thread.

I think what Matt was saying is if its a street car WHO CARES. He wants coilovers for looks, not performance. 90% of the people in this world that buy coilovers do it for looks. They dont know/care that it is not doing them any good performance wise to be .25" off the ground with a stock geometry suspension.

Thomas - man you own a shop right?

Ken - when will I see ya at a DE? Going to go hang out in March?

Halston - get your car back so I can finish it

Ok carry on.

[DinanM3atl]

Haha I don't NEED you to finish it rofl. You just did what I am doing once, means you know the secrets! roflmao

It is done though actually. I can pick it up whenever but if Graphics guy can do them before I get it then I don't have to take it back :)

Either way we do it not this weekend but the next.

[magicandmisc]

popcorn

[DinanM3atl]

No popcorn needed.

[magicandmisc]

No popcorn needed.
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