[mjposner]

I have now had my 235i for two weeks and I really like the car alot (though being careful, I still have not really gone past 4,500 rpm as I still am in the break-in period).

It reminds me very much of my 2002 M3. Same amount of power, same fluidity, similar transmission and clutch (well a bit lighter).

It does not feel like an E9X M3 at all. That fell bigger and more powerful.

So if anyone says its not a real M, say its a throwback M (like in the NFL when they wear old team jerseys).

[mathis.]

had an 03 m3 and i regret selling it. this just made me much more excited to take delivery of my car!

[mjposner]

I had an M3 coupe, loved it, but traded for M3 Convertible, both 2002. Coupe was a much better car. The 235 actually seems roomier than my 02 Coupe

[Vertigo//SD]

I had an '03 M3 coupe, which I loved, from March 2003–end of 2006. Given these comments, maybe I would be content with a M235i instead of the ///M2...?

[Lucky13]

Had a 2002, 2003 and 2004 M3 and the M235 is very similar in many ways. The power delivery is quite a bit different with the loads of torque in the M235 at the low to mid and the E46 wanting to be at extremely high revs to get all the power. I guess you could say the M235 is a little more fun 0-80 and the M3 80 and up. Maybe that's just seat of the pants feel and no numbers to support it and like you I only have a couple hundred miles on mine so far so have not really pushed it.

[DanG]

I too had an E46 M3 but for about 10 years. Driving the M235i I don't miss the M3. I have had mine for over two months and have done two trips to Oregon with it.

What a great road car.

[darkerosxx]

This is what I've been saying all along. So many folks saying this isn't an M car... To me, its just an updated faster e46 M3, and I love it.

[darkerosxx]

Originally Posted by Vertigo//SD

I had an '03 M3 coupe, which I loved, from March 2003–end of 2006. Given these comments, maybe I would be content with a M235i instead of the ///M2...?

Definitely yes.

[DanG]

Originally Posted by Vertigo//SD

I had an '03 M3 coupe, which I loved, from March 2003–end of 2006. Given these comments, maybe I would be content with a M235i instead of the ///M2...?

I also agree. You'll love the M235i.

[BEM-S4]

Best way I've described it to folks is a livable M. Granted 5% of the time I'd want the true M version but 95% of the time I'm happy I don't have it for regular driving.

[mjposner]

M2 will be a great car, sharper handling and more power, but same looks and interior for probably $10-$15k more. I suspect that about $5k in mods would get you 80% there. Adjustable shocks and coilovers, intake and exhaust and a tune should be close.

I just came from an E93 M3 and while it was a great car, I do not miss much (except the leather seats had much nicer leather). I did like the dct but I also like the 6 speed manual. Power curve is different, but this is a dd not a track car so no issues there for me.

Will likely get some power and handling upgrades later this year.

[crawfordbay]

Originally Posted by BEM-S4

Best way I've described it to folks is a livable M. Granted 5% of the time I'd want the true M version but 95% of the time I'm happy I don't have it for regular driving.

Very well put.