m325i

I would add I was cross shopping with an f30 wagon. They look cooler, but I struggled to find a good spec. Anyway, I assume you're not using this as a 'sports car' - it's a family/utility car. I think the X3 is actually more fun. It's still awesome to drive 7/10th, and the SUV height is novel and more fun I reckon. (Can't beat 'em, join 'em?). I keep asking Mrs what the fantasy upgrade is (Maccan, Ionic 5, Merc, SQ5 etc...) And she's just like 'new x3'. Which is not really that different. (unless CarPlay is an essential - which can be retrofitted). X3 35i is more (and can be) a mini X3 M more than the 335i /M3 in my opinion.

I got the 30d - been bulletproof. Family has N55 version. Sounds great, sucks gas. Both are grunty, but I think I prefer the diesel. The LCI (and LCI wheels) are nicer, but the premium is not worth it IMO. Would buy again....

Looks well done, sans a few details, (eg tail lights). Why can't widebody kits have a fuel door flush? Not surprised that's the price - pretty cool!

I have a mint OEM sunglass tray that I took out 7 years ago to replace with cupholders. Are they worth money?

Same. (Edit - Well the foam cannon spray type) The Koch Chemie protector wax is good. I also have liked the Fireball hydrophobic snow foam. I think they all must be pretty similar though.

If you want to spend money outside of Supercheap, there are heaps of better options. Check out https://kochexperts.com/nz/ - rating their stuff ATM... In saying that, I am in the middle of a lockdown valet too - after a polish I am going with the oldschool combo of Powerlock and Collinite 845. Hard to beat the look and it lasts pretty well.

It's a bit confusing as there are resin bases ceramic coatings, and then there are these water based ones like what they sell at Supercheap. The Supercheap stuff is really just like a modern wax. They tend to have better water beading and last a bit longer than a wax (making washing easier), but it's debatable how much 'protection' they offer. Regardless, they do have some good options. If you want a really easy application, try this. It lasts pretty good. If you want to apply like a traditional wax, try this or try this. Post results!

It's a dream if you share the car, as I do with wife. One button press to get back your exact settings.

I'm no expert. I understand they are pretty stout - much better than 4cly. That one has facelift wheels which are a nice upgrade IMO. I regret buying a warranty on mine - especially as they stipulate more servicing for D's.

At the time I looked there were a lot of UK cars. Manual seats, halogen lights, no back up camera, cloth /not heated seats, auto boot etc. There are also multiple versions of iDrive screen. Of course that stuff is all 'luxury' - but once you have it it's hard to go back. The X3s just seemed to have more sh*t. And often 'all' the sh*t. More of them too.

Wanted a F31 330d / 335d. Was underwhelmed with the poverty spec on the market, limited options and premium prices (which seem to have all got worse). Ended up getting an X3 30d and I am converted. Guess it depends what you want it for. Doesn't look as cool, but everything else in the X3 is better IMO. X drive is pretty sweet. Million times better than Audi haldex. Bottom line though, BMW I6 diesels are beasts. Good luck!

Like what?

They are cool / nice. But I remember driving one before I bought a 328i - man the motor is anaemic. Would be a cool base for a project though.

It's not a hedge, it's like a climber on a block wall.

New windscreen New (painted) steering wheel cowl Eibach / Koni is the combo for sure. Should have done it years ago. Rides better than ever, perfect height IMO.

I'm not up with / interested in AU market - just saw a forum post and had a look. https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/?q=(And.(C.Make.BMW._.Model.M3.)_.BodyStyle.Coupe._.Year.range(2000..2006).)

Gone again?

Had a squeeking / groaning form the rear. Was it from recent new parts / work? ohh noooo, this is going to drive me insane! Read a post it could be leather on leather squeeking. It was! Fixed it! Follow your dreams!

@HELLBM did mine as one of the first CMP kit installs. Still rock solid. I think the reality is now known. If you drive an e46 M3 , the RACP will fail eventually. I'm sure you have seen all the videos from Reddish etc... Would love to see some pic of your car!

l/100km?

You'd think so, but I have had multiple crap ones - bad tyre wear, not straight wheel, bad feel etc.

Thanks - pretty hard for me to get there unfortunately. Just after a solid alignment for daily use to suit Koni/Eibach.

The BMW dealer good?