Quote:
Originally Posted by Sleepless
I've had a E36 track car and prefer the 86 which is more nimble (lower CG) and you sit nice an low and the gearbox is better (once warmed up). Same drive with same tires are likely to be very close in lap times. E36 requires chassis strengthening or they'll fall apart. It's heavier so consumables will be more than on the 86.
When I had it, I loved the E36 but I would not go back.
|
I have owned at least 7 E36 M3s from BMWCCA I Stock race cars to TT/DE cars (including a Euro Spec SMG1 3.2l) from 2000 onwards.
Last year got an E36 M3 again as I wanted to dominate NASA TTD class but sold it to get an FRS. Fast forward, its plenty quick on most tracks (broke a 2014 lap record set by an E36 M3 at Summit Point by a margin) so its plenty quick as well.
The FRS is a lot more satisfying to drive than the older E36 M3. Lower center of gravity, better chassis (modern and stiffer), much lower consumable cost (rotors from Autozone around a $100 or so, tires last a while) and its more unique hence giving me greater satisfaction.
I'd keep the cost equation out of this as both cars will have their issues when tracking (power steering hose, reinforcements etc in E36 vs oil cooler and commong other issues with FRS) and see which one ticks the heart. End of the day, the heart will serve you well and let you stay commited. The E36s are very affordable to run too (if maintained right).
For me the FRS is a forever car (never say that but you know..) and the only reason I think about selling is to save my mental sanity (I think of race cars a lot and sometimes it can get toxic as I can live in my own head) so I am biased.
Lutfy