[SpinningHippo]

Hi - thought I'd introduce myself and my new (to me) M235i.

My first best car was a 1980 320is. Fantastic car, always missed it. Since then I've focused on Porsches, owning a 1987 Carrera and then a 1996 993 which I converted into a dedicated track car and did some DE coaching. Anyway, life marches on and I'm just not doing many track days, so I decided to sell the 993 and get a more fun daily driver. I originally planned on getting a Cayman S, but the limited storage space and my own budget goals led me down a path back to BMW. I looked at the 4 series, but it seemed too big and bloated compared to my memories of great 3 series cars.

For both my son and daughter, I helped them buy their first cars which were 3 series. My son has gone on to own four different 3er's and has two today, an E30 and E46 x wagon. I've been lurking on this forum for some time soaking up information, then started to search specifically for a 2015 235i in Estoril over Terra, with as many options as possible.

I spotted a candidate car in the classifieds, but the owner was not replying. I assumed he sold the car to a local dealer, and after some google sleuthing I found the car at a Nissan Dealer in SLC. A Pelican Parts forum member gave her a quick visual, and the former owner took the time to call me and give me great background about the car. A deal was struck so I jumped on a plane and picked her up.

Enjoying the car so far. I have a few months on original warranty to decide if I extend the warranty or just take care of it myself. Dealer put on all new rubber. Not planning much in the way of mods so far - it has a CF splitter and spoiler, I changed the mirror caps to gloss black. I'm looking into options for an oil temp gauge and one day might get rid of that annoying artificial engine noise. The gloss black grill has the tri-color bit which I think is a bit over the top. And way, way too many motorsports badges. But a very fun car with good acceleration and nice amenities.

Pictures are limited for now - this is right outside the dealer as I started my drive back to Northern California, along the drive, home with the car she is replacing, and a last farewell to the SpinningHippo.

Thanks!

Don

[bryan_G01]

welcome to our gang.

If you need help with how to setup your car, ask... but only after you have read through the forums as basically all questions have been asked and answered 3x by now.

1st thing is get that charge pipe replaced.

[SpinningHippo]

Thanks bryan_f22 ! Btw, I put both my kids and a niece through BMW Street Survival.

[bryan_G01]

nice one sir... great idea.

[Unicorn123]

Congratulations Hippo; nice ride and welcome to the forum. Although a newbie myself, it is a great group here and a very helpful bunch of folks. Good luck with your new acquisition and well done with your kids. You did them a solid by ensuring they are well trained drivers.

[Plynth2697]

Originally Posted by SpinningHippo

Hi - thought I'd introduce myself and my new (to me) M235i.

Welcome! I loved reading the story of your love affair with great German cars that stretches back decades and runs through your entire family. The first BMW I ever stepped in was a buddy's 1980 320i. He lived in L.A. and would terrorize me by careening through the twisty canyons at lightning speeds. I loved it and been trying to recreate the experience for myself ever since.

Originally Posted by SpinningHippo

I originally planned on getting a Cayman S, but the limited storage space and my own budget goals led me down a path back to BMW. I looked at the 4 series, but it seemed too big and bloated compared to my memories of great 3 series cars.

Memories of those incredible 3 Series of yesteryear resonate deeply here and make grown men misty. And your choice of an M235i may the closest replication of that glorious time available today. It's a beauty and you've chosen most wisely. Not for nothing, while I don't know where "SLC" is, that snow covered tundra tells me you had one spectacular maiden ride back home!

[dradernh]

Originally Posted by SpinningHippo

Pictures are limited for now - this is right outside the dealer as I started my drive back to Northern California, along the drive, home with the car she is replacing, and a last farewell to the SpinningHippo.

Congratulations on your purchase! Let us know how you like your M235i as you roll up the miles.

I enjoyed your photo shot out on the Salt Flats. It reminds me that I have to get back out there. I esp. liked that you were in the right lane.

[mcompact]

Beautiful M235i! I'm on my eleventh BMW since 1983, and my M235i is one of my all-time favorites- right up there with my E24 M6 and the 318ti Club Sport I've owned since new. The only thing I'd consider as a replacement is an M2C.

[3rdcoast228i]

Thanks for the back story

Enjoy the new ride

[SpinningHippo]

Thanks everyone!