FRS vs 335i
 

So Im currently stuck between two cars right now and obviously you know the two from the title.

Im looking for a car thats light ( which the frs is) but also has power (which the 335i has) I can get a new FRS for about the same price as a 335i and maintenance wise I dont really worry about.

I want to track both cars but it will also be my daily. Now im looking to have big plans for this car whether its the 335i or the FRS as the 335i has just come out with a new single turbo kit that is fairly reliable on STOCK internals at 600+ hp to the wheels which to me...I like. But I also like the fact that the FRS can almost keep up with most high powered track cars in its stock form with simply minor tire mods. If i were to get one or the other...Id completley modify the suspension and eventually do weight reduction mods.

So the question is...which one? I like the fact that with the 335i, its already turboed and can bring 650+ hp on stock internals while the FRS with its high compression, will require engine builds to even get there. I want to have high power and amazing handling so which would be easier to get there with the least money in your opinion? :iono:

The cost of maintenance on the beemer alone will change your mind....

335 is super nice but its the little things that will add up over time

Two totally different types of cars. 335i is the 'musclecar' of the euro world. It is even worse handling than the Mustang GT. It can be made fast in a straight line though, for relatively low cost.

Have you ever tracked before?
If so how many times?

I've never tracked before. Looking for a car capable since my 200k+ mileage lexus probably wont do the job.

Personally, I'd go with the FR-S, but if you think that with tires it's going to keep up with most higher-powered cars at the track, I believe you're in for a big disappointment. Power/weight is, like, important and stuff...

Never tracked before and yet you desire 600+ at the wheels? Doesn't sound like the best place to begin...probably develop a lot of bad habits trying to muscle a handful of a car around a track.

bimmer 4 door?

I was in the same boat as you, but I chose the FRS.

If you don't plant to keep both cars for more than 4 years, get the bimmer.

If you want go kart feeling, get the frs.

the list goes on.

Apples to oranges buddy, if you plan on tracking it and its a very high speed course take the 335i and make it loose weight because its a fat pig. If you have a technical course near by get the FR-S.

I honestly would take the fr-s why?

Lower maintenance cost, value for your money, warranty since i assume you will be buying the 335i used to be in the same ball park as the frs, since you have never tracked before i would recommend starting in a low power car. If i were you id actually start with a used miata so if you crash it you wont break the bank.

Upgrades for bmws are more expensive than japanese parts typically. I think it really comes down to the test drive. The bmw will have a softer ride stock and be more comfortable, whereas the FR-S/BRZ you feel a lot more of the road. You may want to factor in the maintenance if you are planning to keep it for a long time. BMW maintenance even avoiding the dealership is expensive compared to the FR-S/BRZ. If you are leasing it or only keeping it for the short term then its not AS big of an issue, but random stuff does happen. Since both are RWD cars, I would factor in a set of winter tires/rims as well.

What is your budget? Without a realistic budget its all a pipe dream.

i think you should take your lexus to an autocross event and go from there.

If you've never been to the track but plan to, I would absolutely recommend the FR-S. It is simpler, lighter, more in tune with your driving inputs. It will teach you to be a better driver, much like a Miata would. A 335i will mask your shortcomings with lots of horsepower and grip; it's not a good place to start. You want to first learn to drive a slow car fast, not drive a fast car slow. If you wanted to get the FR-S and eventually switch to the Bimmer you could always do that.

i am a huge bmw superfan. i've also tracked and modded cars.

with no hesitation i'm recommending the frs/brz if you're going to do this.