Except for dyno testing, all...
Except for dyno testing, all testing on Project M3 will be performed using Racelogic's PerformanceBox, sold through VBox USA. Using GPS, it doesn't need calibration and will accurately measure acceleration (to any speed or distance), deceleration and lateral acceleration, seen on the screen or logged onto a computer screen through the supplied memory card. It can also compute horsepower to the wheels or flywheel, calculating drivetrain loss
Next were sway bars to reduce body roll and transfer more pressure to the inboard wheels, applying even weight distribution to all four wheels. With a plethora of companies to choose from we stayed with UUC's SwayBarbarians. Using a 27mm front bar and a 24mm rear (stock '96-on M3 is 23/20mm), UUC increased stiffness by a reported 49% front and 101% rear further reducing understeer. The '95 M3 came with 1mm smaller bars than OBD2 cars, so the increase is even greater
UUC also sells its StrutBarbarian to reduce shock tower flex under hard cornering. At $369 it isn't the cheapest bar, but it's magnesium construction with aluminum end plates weigh just 2 lb, making it the lightest around.
We drove to Modified by KC Performance with our toys in the trunk for the installation. We set our sway bar adjustment to soft up front and medium in the rear to dial out more understeer.
Leaving MKC, we were pleased to find the ride quality still there. Albeit a fraction stiffer, the daily-driving wife didn't notice it! The only other compromise is the additional 10 lb over the stock components (35 lb versus 25 lb).
We returned to our test site to measure the improvements. On our first run the car felt better, registering an easy 1.08G peak on cold tires. Even at 3F cooler than before, the front tires were biting significantly better, while the rear felt planted no matter how much throttle was used. When the rear's limit was reached, the tail stepped out delicately and predictably.
Having experienced several BMW M3s, our Project M3 was satisfyingly neutral by comparison. With warm tires the final numbers we recorded were 1.03G average with a staggering 1.16G peak - not bad for a 12 year-old family hauler that kept its ride quality intact!
Our rejuvenated front end...
Our rejuvenated front end with its new Max Velocity splitters and EAS grilles
Project M3 Update
Over the course of the year, Project M3 has needed minor repairs to some of its previous additions (et 3/08). First, one of our splitters from Max Velocity cracked during 5F weather in an uneven grass parking lot. Special thanks to MV for sending a replacement. Second, our black-out kidney grille paint procedure didn't last too long. Apparently, small areas of the chrome weren't sanded enough, so the primer didn't adhere. Consequently, the paint started to flake in those areas. Instead of doing the entire process again we called European Auto Source and simply ordered black kidney grilles. At $89 a pair, they're worth it and will fit all E36 BMWs.
 X-Brace Installation 1. The...  X-Brace Installation
1. The black factory I-brace will be replaced by our X-brace from Bavarian Autosport, reducing more flex. Simply remove the two 17mm bolts holding it in place |  2. All E36 M3s have pre-drilled...  2. All E36 M3s have pre-drilled and tapped subframe holes for two of the three holes per front corner of the X-brace. Bavarian supplies inserts for the middle hole, which we didn't bother using |  3. X-brace installed with...  3. X-brace installed with our front sway bar as well |
 Strut Bar Installation 1....  Strut Bar Installation
1. With the wheels on the ground, pry off the plastic covers and remove the three 13mm nuts |  2. The aluminum strut bar...  2. The aluminum strut bar ends only fit one way, with the openings facing the fender. Tighten the 13mm nuts |  3. Bolt the magnesium bar...  3. Bolt the magnesium bar to the pre-tapped holes on the aluminum end plates using the supplied 8mm allen head hardware |
 4. The UUC StrutBarbarian...  4. The UUC StrutBarbarian reduces chassis flex and dresses the engine compartment. It's also offered in silver. The bar wouldn't clear our OBD2 fuel rail cover, so an OBD1 piece was installed |  The paint started to flake...  The paint started to flake on our grilles. Notice we didn't sand the chrome properly, making it impossible for the primer and paint to stick |  Replacement grilles from European...  Replacement grilles from European Auto Source should last forever. For tips on how to remove your factory grilles, see et 3/08 |