Hi all, first post on here so please be gentle!
I've read all the reviews and watched all the vids, I hired a M3W from Malvern the other week as well and have to say…I’m completely smitten!
My car history has mainly been performance German stuff but looking for a week-end toy that gives me more of an adventure, rather than just out & out Autobahn speed.
Which is EXACTLY the route I took - no need for 200mph cars that don't engage until 150mph....!
Few questions I’m hoping you guys might be able to answer:
1 – Exhaust, the car I hired had the Stage 1 exhaust & filter, it didn’t look much different to standard pipes but from what I’ve read the diameter is approx 88mm compared to the 75mm standard. Is it possible to achieve similar pops & bangs from modifying the standard system (IE remove baffle or similar)? I understand Garge56 do a similar priced stage 1 system as well.
Plenty of threads on here about modifying the stock exhaust, but you'll just end up with a nasty, noisy thing in my view. If you want a properly designed, efficient and sporting exhaust, go either G56 or MMC Stage-1. I have G56 and it is perfect in my view, albeit with a bigger silencer than stock, as this one both flows AND silences effectively! This is a must-have in my view.
2 – Bright Pack, love the classic look of the polished roll hoops & cowl but not to fussed on the engine & headlamps. At £2795.00 it’s obviously a very expensive option, has anyone had their standard black hoops or cowl chromed? If so, what were approximate costs?
No, sorry. I thought the bright pack to be way too expensive and I preferred the more retro look of the stock black.
3 - Tyres, car I had was running the Blockley tyres, looked great and I understand they perform slightly better than the standard Avons. On the options list it says “Blockley square cut wheels & tyres £474.00”, what does this mean..”square cut wheels” as it’s just the tyres I’m after?
£474 is outrageous for a pair of front tyres, when you don;t even get the originals in the first place! The Avons are not best suited to the M3W and the Blockleys are much better in my opinion. But just buy them from MWS - £90 each.
Blockleys 4 - Seats, there is an option of "Centre split leather seats - £300.00", silly question now, but what exactly are these?
I assume it replaces the single backrest in standard cars with a pair of upright cushions. Not seen one, so others may need to comment here.
Also, I know each car is individual but what would you guys suggest as "must have" options?
Just the G56 or MMC Stage-1 kit really - otherwise the engine is strangled, pinks, overheats and is generally grumpy. Blockleys as you've already identified and in my case a rack for those touring times. Read the other threads on here for the all important "Spares & Tools Bag", which really should be a factory option too!
Standard car is now priced at £33,354.00 which I can probably get past the wife. If I add another £5k+ worth of options though it’s not gonna happen..:(
My ideal “standard” car would be Sport Grey with tan (or red) leather and a few other goodies but need to be realistic on these costs though hence the questions.
Nice combo. You really don;t need to spend much on extras - but remember that most aftermarket options are MUCH cheaper than getting the guys in Malvern Link to nail them together for you
