[gaijin]

I've read a lot of post and comments about how to option and what folks have optioned their M235i. Some have gone the base car with maybe one option (LSD) while others have loaded theirs (a separate thread under full option elsewhere).

So my query is as stated above in the title line, what to you is the ultimate option list for a M235i that has both great street use (e.g., Navigation - better trip planning, etc.) and ultimate track performance (e.g., LSD - added power control, etc.). And why????

Let's hear it! Thanks for participating.

[nike001]

There's a lot of different reasons why/how people would option their cars.

A lot of people just want a bare bones car to race all the time and rarely drive on the street, so why would they need tech or premium packages? This is basically situational for everyone.

As you said, an AW/Black sensatec car with no options and an LSD sounds to me like what most people who'd just track their 235i would shoot for.

[gaijin]

Thanks for that feedback. I see that you have just ordered a really nice M235i for yourself. Congrats!

The thread I started is meant to see what people that would or already has one they drive as DD and would also run club events with it on weekends. Best of both world, or like we use to say....run what you 'brung!

Another caveat: price at this point is "no object." This would include M-Performance options like diffuser, CF appointments, etc. It has to satisfy both world for the discerning driver that has it all.

[overcoil]

Ultimate track and street:

Alpine white - hides stone chips easy to repaint.
Sensatec - less expensive. Xenon hesdlamps look good at night, though xenon are a toss up - why the expense, no matter what tape up headlamp lenses if they let you when at the track.

Navigation I'd pass on, LSD I'd pass on - if you want LSD in the future that's fine, open diff may feel better in high speed sweepers and if you upgrade then you'll have the experience of knowing for sure.

Performance exhaust I would do, sunroof delete is a tough choice, I like having the glass in the roof.

Wheels and tires and brake pads would probably be things I'd upgrade, would want a spare set of high quality forged wheels for the track.

[gaijin]

Good points ScottSinger. Wondering too what the weight reduction is on a sunroof delete car?

[nike001]

Originally Posted by gaijin

Good points ScottSinger. Wondering too what the weight reduction is on a sunroof delete car?

It's not so much weight reduction as it is lowering the center of gravity.

For a track car then I'd probably just get AW/sensatec & tech package w/ LSD. Or just load it up like I did mine

[Alpine F31]

I'd do it just like this...


LSD is also going on, but that doesn't show here because it's a port installed accessory.

[gaijin]

+1. Sweet package. Are you planning on running running club events or just have a spirited all-around sports coupe? After all, you've got some pretty awesome driving not too far from where you are.

[Alpine F31]

Originally Posted by gaijin

+1. Sweet package. Are you planning on running running club events or just have a spirited all-around sports coupe?

I plan on doing as many track and autocross events as possible. I do BMW CCA autocross events and HPDE's at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana. I've also done a couple of "track days" with SpeedVentures. I can't wait to try my new 2 out on the track! Do you plan on tracking yours?

[gaijin]

Thermal would be another good track. I'd like too. Maybe do the Performance School out that way and get a taste of the new track.

Yes, most definitely. BMWCCA hosted track events within a days drive would be great. We've got Sebring, Palm Beach and Roebling Roads to name a few.

[krhodes1]

Originally Posted by Alpine F31

I'd do it just like this...
<snip>

LSD is also going on, but that doesn't show here because it's a port installed accessory.

Almost identical to my order, other than I got H/K instead of the Driver Assistance Pkg. And the full Cold Weather instead of just Butt Heat. Need the heated wheel and headlight washers in Maine.

[nike001]

Originally Posted by Alpine F31

I'd do it just like this...

Hey nice car! My car's in the same stage as yours. Mine finished production this past Wednesday (the 11th).

[hans007]

i dont really see how nav and tech stuff will help for street or track. i mean sure if im on my commute i might want sirius or h&k (though i've heard its not very big a difference).

i mean a loaded m235i in theory would be the best for street use right? i guses for track you'd want one with sunroof delete, and the lsd.

i would guess my m235i perfect street / track use car, is the... get a m2 with no options package.

[wjones14]

Originally Posted by hans007

i dont really see how nav and tech stuff will help for street or track. i mean sure if im on my commute i might want sirius or h&k (though i've heard its not very big a difference).

i mean a loaded m235i in theory would be the best for street use right? i guses for track you'd want one with sunroof delete, and the lsd.

i would guess my m235i perfect street / track use car, is the... get a m2 with no options package.

You get the BMW Apps with the Tech Package, don't you? This has the M LapTimer app. It seems useful if you're tracking the car.

I seriously doubt the sunroof delete is going to make the car handle any differently on a track, but if every little bit counts, then go for it.

The LSD is a must-have though - there's a reason that all real M cars are equipped with one instead of the open differential.

[hoppy6698]

Originally Posted by gaijin

I've read a lot of post and comments about how to option and what folks have optioned their M235i. Some have gone the base car with maybe one option (LSD) while others have loaded theirs (a separate thread under full option elsewhere).

So my query is as stated above in the title line, what to you is the ultimate option list for a M235i that has both great street use (e.g., Navigation - better trip planning, etc.) and ultimate track performance (e.g., LSD - added power control, etc.). And why????

Let's hear it! Thanks for participating.

Given the moving I do (Army), I would option mine exactly as I did with one exception - I would do w/o the drivers assistance (Parking sensors/camera). It breaks up the appearance on the front bumper and drives me (as a hobby detailer with a little OCD) a little nuts.

Given your location, you can go w/o the sunroof, but it eliminates an option to vent heat in the summer.

As you asked though, if I had the time to wait and the money to spend, I would go for a minimally optioned M2 first. If M235 is a must - the tech pack is very nice, HK is near worthless, and for track get the LSD (see LSD review thread if you doubt utility). Some guys think the sensatec seats are fine, but I could never find one to judge. Otherwise the premium pack is just leather seats and comfort access.

[Transfer]

Don't get alpine white unless you like cleaning black clag streaks off for hours.