m3 > Rs4

[Sims]

I don't doubt that in Spain and on a race track the M3 would be the preferred choice and a better car... but I don't live in Spain and I don't go near a race track... so for me the Top Gear review doesn't really help me

And the "average" driver may well be quicker in an RS4 even in Spain, and certainly if it was not a bone dry track/road anywhere.

In any event the difference is too small to matter.

[ChrisCSL]

What is being suggested is that people often make emotive statements that are devoid of any sense of accuracy e.g. "My mates E46 M3 convertible looks like he's in reverse when I blast off in the RS4"! .

Not sure what you are on about but how about this. My friend is now disappointed with his M3 Convertible since experiencing my RS4. We both feel that the E46 M3 in convertible form lacks the accelerative pace of the B7 RS4 when on the move from 40mph upwards to over motorway speeds. I also was disappointed with the convertible as a complete package where the whole driving experience feels remote and dulled. However I used to own a M3 CSL which is one of the best cars I've ever had. More thrilling to drive than the RS4 (although ownership experience over a year is less so as it's a bit hardcore). On a track the CSL would be the more fun and a little faster than the RS4 but it's designed with the track in mind and the RS4 more road focused.

Back onto the original thread. I personally recommend an RS4 over a E46 M3 with the exception of the CSL. The CSL is for trackdays but not as accomplished as an RS4 for daily use.

[poon]

in Avant its hard to beat!

[Sims]

.. The CSL is for trackdays but not as accomplished as an RS4 for daily use.

The CSL feels more at home when driven flat out all the time, and this of course is easier on race tracks. The induction noise is quite addictive. In everyday use, it is easy to tire of the CSL, one of the reasons it is not uncommon to have a large number of owners - 4, 5 is not uncommon.

The RS4 is far less drama, but as quick and TGV 'esque. A well grounded package that delivers day after day after day, and yet is not shy at race tracks. IMO, better anchors are necessary for track driving although CSL brakes are also lacking a little for heavy track use.

[Sims]

in Avant its hard to beat!

Of course.

They should have made a M3 Touring, that would have been popular.

[mark758]

CSL is definitely quicker round a track...as long as it's completely dry but I would bet on a sizeable gap appearing trying to follow an RS4 to 120, even with its lightweight carbon infusion and it's power upgrade.
Don't mention the cost of the replacement splitter when its met a speed bump

[sharpM]

http://www.streetfire.net/video/194-fif ... 178050.htm

[mark758]

the CS is not the full welly CSL but a midway point from std, heavier than a CSL with less carbon and less power, but similar rear axle action

[scaghead]

ffs, just go on the bimmer forums to hear from punters how dissapointing the newer m3 is.. or if you want convincing even more look at the prices of them secondhand.... supply and not much demand means jank resale prices.

[Sims]

ffs, just go on the bimmer forums to hear from punters how dissapointing the newer m3 is.. or if you want convincing even more look at the prices of them secondhand.... supply and not much demand means jank resale prices.

The E90/92 did not get a warm reception, but people are warming to it. Here is one example.

http://www.pistonheads.co.uk/doc.asp?c=52&i=21719

The target audience for the E90/92 M3 is not the same as it was for the E30/E36/E46 M3.


Prices have firmed up a lot...

[Sims]

the CS is not the full welly CSL but a midway point from std, heavier than a CSL with less carbon and less power, but similar rear axle action

A man who knows his M3's well.

The CS is becoming quite a sought after car.

[ChrisCSL]

I would love to get another CSL. I really do miss it. My wife was not a fan. She found it very jerky to drive in town or in traffic. Also as a passenger she found it a violent experience under acceleration and braking (pagid RS29's). The seats are great buckets (Recaro Pole Position based I believe) for the driver. Not so much for the passenger as there is no back rake adjust. It's on track manners and amazing induction roar is like a drug. I think I'm still adicted.

[sonny]

as a passenger she found it a violent experience

Hell yea

[Sims]

I would love to get another CSL. .... I think I'm still adicted.

Prices firming up while RS4's are softening.

[ChrisCSL]

as a passenger she found it a violent experience

Hell yea