BMW X3 Forum
BMW X3 Forum
Welcome to the ultimate G45 BMW X3 community.
BMW Garage BMW Meets Register Search Today's Posts Mark Forums Read
View Poll Results: Which soaks up the bumps, yet still provides high fun factor?
ST 4 16.00%
GTI 8 32.00%
Rex 10 40.00%
zz3 3 12.00%
Multiple Choice Poll. Voters: 25. You may not vote on this poll

Post Reply
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread
      12-08-2013, 08:36 PM   #1
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

These NYC pot holes are killing me... save the M3

...So I'm thinking about picking up a small 'city car' as my M3 gets more and more track tuned... wanting to go the opposite of the SUV route, I'm considering the following 'cheap' hatchbacks... wondering if anybody has input on suspension compliance before I actually go and test drive:

All manual shift 5-doors:

1. Fiesta/Focus ST (fun, bang for buck, but too stiff a ride?!)
2. VW GTI (german solidity!... and dullness?)
3. Subaru WRX (dated, but solid, all weather do-it-all vehicle)
4. Mazda 3 (I know it's outmatched in speed by the others, but I've rented it several times using zipcar, and find it to glide over any moon-crater that NYC throws its way)
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 08:42 PM   #2
EvenSteven
Banned
EvenSteven's Avatar
17
Rep
394
Posts

Drives: '11 m3
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: United States

iTrader: (0)

I don't have any of these cars, but a coworker has the Mazda 3 and the ride is surprisingly compliant on rough roads. Houston streets don't have that "Kosovo circa 1993 NATO bombing" charm, but they aren't far behind.

I'm surprised you don't have 5-0 all over your ass for that beastly exhaust. Where did you get the left foot brake? I love the DCT but I can feel atrophy setting in my left leg.
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 08:51 PM   #3
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Robert Baylor
www.ultimatepedals.com
sales@ultimatepedals.com
(561) 798-6588 Phone
(561) 798-6994 Fax

Tell Robert I sent you. I have a 6.5" extended brake pedal, milled from billet aluminum... will post pics separately.

I've had cops right behind me, but unless I'm on it, the car sounds placid.

Quote:
Originally Posted by EvenSteven View Post
I don't have any of these cars, but a coworker has the Mazda 3 and the ride is surprisingly compliant on rough roads. Houston streets don't have that "Kosovo circa 1993 NATO bombing" charm, but they aren't far behind.

I'm surprised you don't have 5-0 all over your ass for that beastly exhaust. Where did you get the left foot brake? I love the DCT but I can feel atrophy setting in my left leg.
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 09:02 PM   #4
alee0729
Lieutenant
alee0729's Avatar
177
Rep
588
Posts

Drives: 2013 E92 M3, 2018 Tesla 3 Perf
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: New York, NY

iTrader: (0)

The Mazda 3 is a great city car. Really any compact I've driven in NYC that isn't a "sport" model seems to do just fine.

I'd personally just get a run of the mill Honda or Toyota if I had to drive around the city. Any "fun" is negated with traffic anyway. May as well get something designed for traffic jams and beat it to death reliability.
__________________
2013 E92 M3 (the weekend good weather car), 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance (the 20k mi/yr beater)
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 09:30 PM   #5
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Good point!
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 09:57 PM   #6
8_is_enough
Captain
8_is_enough's Avatar
200
Rep
984
Posts

Drives: 07 GT3, 18 Macan GTS, 22 X540i
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Danville, CA

iTrader: (10)

I picked up a MK6 GTI as my daily driver here in San Francisco. It feels light on its feet and nimble, while having a lot of creature comforts and not feeling "cheap." That said, I sometimes regret not getting a TDI or (gasp) a Prius, since it's an infuriating, mundane, and pothole-ridden commute. Even a fun car can't help that
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 10:16 PM   #7
tjsabec
Captain
tjsabec's Avatar
United_States
53
Rep
620
Posts

Drives: 2008, e90, alpine white, 6mt
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Morgantown, wv

iTrader: (2)

I've recently owned both an 08 GTI and an 08 Mazda 3...both would do well i am sure, although Pittsburgh is not NYC, so I don't have a point of reference. The question is: are you planning an automatic transmission for the city? If so, the GTI probably has the only dual clutch on that list. I've only owned manuals, so i can't help there either.
Appreciate 0
      12-08-2013, 10:19 PM   #8
TrevorM3
Banned
3328
Rep
8,083
Posts

Drives: 6.3 AMG
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Florida

iTrader: (0)

NO m3 deserves to be driven in NY.

I despise the roads up there.
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 12:03 AM   #9
rondocap
Captain
rondocap's Avatar
164
Rep
622
Posts

Drives: 335i Sedan
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: NY/NJ

iTrader: (1)

I drive a manual mk6 gti in ny. It's great - traffic can be tough, but the ride is decent.


For a really isolated and soft ride, you need another segment of sedan like a 5 series or Lexus Es. Smaller cars tend to ride harsher.
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 12:08 AM   #10
EvenSteven
Banned
EvenSteven's Avatar
17
Rep
394
Posts

Drives: '11 m3
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: United States

iTrader: (0)

Quote:
Originally Posted by rondocap View Post
I drive a manual mk6 gti in ny. It's great - traffic can be tough, but the ride is decent.


For a really isolated and soft ride, you need another segment of sedan like a 5 series or Lexus Es. Smaller cars tend to ride harsher.
I don't know if I would drive a luxury car in New York, especially just for a work commute. I second the previous recommendation of just getting some Japanese beater car, and not give a damn where you park it or about those bumper buddies things all my NY friends are sporting on their cars.
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 12:10 AM   #11
Eau Rouge
Major
Eau Rouge's Avatar
United_States
143
Rep
1,242
Posts

Drives: 2012 E92 M3
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Florida's Emerald Coast

iTrader: (0)

Garage List
2012 BMW E92 M3  [9.00]
Quote:
Originally Posted by LTNYC View Post
...So I'm thinking about picking up a small 'city car' as my M3 gets more and more track tuned... wanting to go the opposite of the SUV route, I'm considering the following 'cheap' hatchbacks... wondering if anybody has input on suspension compliance before I actually go and test drive:

All manual shift 5-doors:

1. Fiesta/Focus ST (fun, bang for buck, but too stiff a ride?!)
2. VW GTI (german solidity!... and dullness?)
3. Subaru WRX (dated, but solid, all weather do-it-all vehicle)
4. Mazda 3 (I know it's outmatched in speed by the others, but I've rented it several times using zipcar, and find it to glide over any moon-crater that NYC throws its way)
Another #1stWorldProblemsThread.

Just move to a state that doesn't salt roads and you'll be fine as potholes are as rare as virgins in a brothel.
__________________
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 06:59 AM   #12
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by 8_is_enough View Post
I picked up a MK6 GTI as my daily driver here in San Francisco. It feels light on its feet and nimble, while having a lot of creature comforts and not feeling "cheap." That said, I sometimes regret not getting a TDI or (gasp) a Prius, since it's an infuriating, mundane, and pothole-ridden commute. Even a fun car can't help that
yikes, can't do the prius no matter what! a guy's gotta have some standards! lol... thx for the input thos... most seem to be voting GTI
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 07:00 AM   #13
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by TrevorM3 View Post
NO m3 deserves to be driven in NY.

I despise the roads up there.
agreed. it's really shameful the condition of these roads... ze germans must laugh out loud when they visit here
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 07:03 AM   #14
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by tjsabec View Post
I've recently owned both an 08 GTI and an 08 Mazda 3...both would do well i am sure, although Pittsburgh is not NYC, so I don't have a point of reference. The question is: are you planning an automatic transmission for the city? If so, the GTI probably has the only dual clutch on that list. I've only owned manuals, so i can't help there either.
manual only... which is part of my 'fun factor'... I do miss the shifiting with my DCT... on track, I don't. PS this car will also be used for 1-2hr stints outside of the city too.. the M will be relocated about an hour out of town in a friend's heated garage and this 'city car' will be occupying my garage space here in manhattan
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 07:05 AM   #15
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by rondocap View Post
I drive a manual mk6 gti in ny. It's great - traffic can be tough, but the ride is decent.


For a really isolated and soft ride, you need another segment of sedan like a 5 series or Lexus Es. Smaller cars tend to ride harsher.
it's gotta be small for squeezing into tight spaces! I hear ya tho
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 07:05 AM   #16
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by EvenSteven View Post
I don't know if I would drive a luxury car in New York, especially just for a work commute. I second the previous recommendation of just getting some Japanese beater car, and not give a damn where you park it or about those bumper buddies things all my NY friends are sporting on their cars.
zoom zoom is looking more and more attractive
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 09:41 AM   #17
Repoman
Second Lieutenant
Repoman's Avatar
United_States
33
Rep
203
Posts

Drives: 2017 Audi R8 V10+
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Downtown Los Angeles

iTrader: (0)

Focus ST < GTI

Focus looks very cheap compared to the GTI. GTI is a fun little car to drive.
Appreciate 0
      12-09-2013, 12:33 PM   #18
The Automotive Enthusiast
Retired BMW Genius
The Automotive Enthusiast's Avatar
United_States
2953
Rep
3,404
Posts

Drives: 2018 Audi S5 Coupe
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: DMV

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by TrevorM3 View Post
NO m3 deserves to be driven in NY.

I despise the roads up there.
NY and Baltimore....just horrible roads. The new Mazda 3 looks very good, and if you can wait, there's a new Golf coming.
__________________
Quote:
Originally Posted by LucBroDude View Post
TRAITOR.
Quote:
Originally Posted by LucBroDude View Post
TRAITOR.
Appreciate 0
      12-10-2013, 09:43 PM   #19
Dougeefresh
Second Lieutenant
77
Rep
268
Posts

Drives: 2011 E92 JB
Join Date: May 2013
Location: Earth

iTrader: (1)

I had a WRX (bugeye) and it was an awesome car. Very reliable, not a single issue for the 6 year I owned (and I even had significant upgrades like FMIC, exhaust, bigger turbo, etc.). And it can handle just about any weather especially snow here in Chicago area. It was a really fun car and I still miss it now that winter is here.
Appreciate 0
      12-10-2013, 09:55 PM   #20
Dog Face Pony Soldier
2006 TIME Person Of The Year
Dog Face Pony Soldier's Avatar
United_States
9705
Rep
6,445
Posts

Drives: M Sport 335i
Join Date: May 2013
Location: North Jersey

iTrader: (0)

Garage List
2014 335i  [9.74]
Rumor is the next Mazdaspeed3 will be an AWD twin-turbo diesel...
__________________
Appreciate 0
      12-10-2013, 10:38 PM   #21
CK335iMSport
First Lieutenant
CK335iMSport's Avatar
12
Rep
371
Posts

Drives: 2014 335i M Sport
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Austin, TX.

iTrader: (0)

My last vehicle was a 2011 VW GTI, such a great car! I've said it several times, I think everyone who truly loves driving should own one at least once in their life!

GTI FTW!!!
__________________
2014 335i M Sport - Mineral Grey/Coral Red, Nav., Premium, HK, MPE, 8AT. Mods: Macht Schnell Spacers (12mm-front, 15mm-rear) with 403M's, Bilstein B8 Struts/H&R Sport Spring combo, M-Performance black kidney grilles, IND Distribution color-matched reflector inserts and key hole cover.
Appreciate 0
      12-10-2013, 10:42 PM   #22
LTNYC
Private
9
Rep
96
Posts

Drives: 2011 e92 M3
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: NYC

iTrader: (1)

Quote:
Originally Posted by CK335iMSport View Post
My last vehicle was a 2011 VW GTI, such a great car! I've said it several times, I think everyone who truly loves driving should own one at least once in their life!

GTI FTW!!!
not too many pot-holes in TX tho, right?!
__________________
e92 M3 ZCP DCT | V1 | Alpine HID AE | Left-Foot Brake | Meisterschaft GT2 | ACM test pipes + ESS | Stop-Tech BBK | Cantrell Ducts | Vorshlag Plates | H&R Sways | KW Springs | Turner studs | Turner Spacers | Michelin SS | TRmotorsports MT-1/M-hubs | Nitto NT-01 | Schroth | HANS | Safecraft
Appreciate 0
Post Reply

Bookmarks

Thread Tools Search this Thread
Search this Thread:

Advanced Search

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 01:05 PM.




x3:
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
1Addicts.com, BIMMERPOST.com, E90Post.com, F30Post.com, M3Post.com, ZPost.com, 5Post.com, 6Post.com, 7Post.com, XBimmers.com logo and trademark are properties of BIMMERPOST