Search found 324 matches

by Mike123
Fri 01 Apr, 2016 13:07
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Seats / backache
Replies: 19
Views: 4719

Re: Seats / backache

I can only comment on the Z3M seats.

My wife and I (very different shapes and sizes!) both found that when I raised the front edge of the seats by about 20mm using spacers they became really comfortable.
by Mike123
Wed 16 Mar, 2016 17:51
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 front top mounts advice please
Replies: 4
Views: 1493

Re: Z3 front top mounts advice please

Simple answer yes - the bearings will be worn. OEM fine for the front. The rears need to be upgraded to Rogue mounts. Are you not fitting matching springs all round? I find it difficult to believe that fronts only will improve the handling. The H&R front anti-roll bar made a big difference to mi...
by Mike123
Wed 09 Mar, 2016 08:52
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Nearly time :)
Replies: 21
Views: 5079

Re: Nearly time :)

My Z3M is now called the SL500 :bawl: :bawl:
by Mike123
Thu 25 Feb, 2016 22:50
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Je ne regrette rien!
Replies: 6
Views: 2842

Re: Je ne regrette rien!

Yes, spot on - I've joined the dark side...... :oops: :oops: :oops:

Image

..............just popping out to buy a cardy.


(Actually, although it weighs about as much as Hampshire, it drives quite well).
by Mike123
Mon 22 Feb, 2016 18:42
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Je ne regrette rien!
Replies: 6
Views: 2842

Re: Je ne regrette rien!

I didn't say I'd given up, in fact the new car is 67bhp more than the M (clue). It's just with failing eyesight, slow reactions, and a complete lack of judgement and anticipation, whilst continuing to drive like a lunatic, I need more airbags and more metal around me for when the inevitable happens!
by Mike123
Mon 22 Feb, 2016 09:36
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Je ne regrette rien!
Replies: 6
Views: 2842

Je ne regrette rien!

Finally, after a couple of years prevaricating, the Z3M has gone. 11 years and 85k terrific miles - what a car! The good news is that it's been bought by the mechanic who has looked after it recently - even though it's in good nick he plans a full rebuild - so at least I'll get to see it from time t...
by Mike123
Wed 19 Aug, 2015 07:58
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Those of a sensitive disposition, look away now.....
Replies: 5
Views: 2036

Re: Those of a sensitive disposition, look away now.....

Well, it wasn't too bad. Del was spot on. Still not sure why there was no warning lights or noises, but maybe I'm getting deaf and blind in my old age! The air con condenser needed replacing anyway, so took the opportunity to replace all of the pulleys, belts, and tensioner at the same time. OEM pum...
by Mike123
Sun 09 Aug, 2015 10:45
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Those of a sensitive disposition, look away now.....
Replies: 5
Views: 2036

Those of a sensitive disposition, look away now.....

http://i1002.photobucket.com/albums/af148/arc123uk/20150808_222943.jpg ......yes, I know, but it had been sitting in a dusty car park for 5 hours. 2nd time on a recovery trailer in 10 years is probably not too bad. Last time it was the Vanos, this time the water pump. A bit odd - the car was runnin...
by Mike123
Fri 24 Jul, 2015 13:27
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: A/C Condenser
Replies: 2
Views: 1242

Re: A/C Condenser

That's helpful - thanks.

Good advice, I've ordered a drier canister.
by Mike123
Wed 22 Jul, 2015 15:59
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: A/C Condenser
Replies: 2
Views: 1242

A/C Condenser

Any advice about replacing the A/C Condenser?

It looks like it will eventually come out from underneath.

How much dismantling is necessary?

Any advice welcome. :rtm:
by Mike123
Thu 09 Jul, 2015 22:44
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Spot the Z
Replies: 2
Views: 1350

Spot the Z

Image
by Mike123
Fri 12 Jun, 2015 17:24
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

OK, all settled amicably after a phone call from the director - a fair compromise reached.

I'm totally comfortable with the outcome.
by Mike123
Thu 11 Jun, 2015 21:41
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

One final slightly unpleasant note on this saga. It's always tricky when the dealer is many miles away, and there is a need for a degree of trust - a gentleman's agreement - to allow the deal to take place. I'm sure it's quite normal for a dealer to expect a degree of commitment to hold a car for a ...
by Mike123
Sun 07 Jun, 2015 08:46
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

Well.............. ..............an interesting and informative day, but NOT a sad day! The M3 was everything I hoped it would be - great condition for the year, full spec, drove really well, the right colour. If it had been my decision alone, we would have been driving it home yesterday. I've previ...
by Mike123
Fri 05 Jun, 2015 20:57
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

Yes, it seemed the least painful way (other than in the wallet!). I've had my full money's worth and more from the car over the 10 years. I couldn't face the thought of tyre kickers and boy racers. If I had had more time, I would have offered it here - it was a relatively rapid decision, and I just ...
by Mike123
Fri 05 Jun, 2015 19:53
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

If only they had produced a 2CV in Imola - what a car!! Z4M is a good call, I nearly bought an 18k miler in Norwich a little while ago, but it didn't really meet the new requirements. I said that the final clue would give it away - well done chaps. ('_')Z3 gets the booze - PM me your address, and le...
by Mike123
Fri 05 Jun, 2015 18:54
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

Good guesses - I did seriously consider these, but you're slightly missing my preference for a little more 'vintage'.

Close, so you get another go - it's a Cloudy Bay Chardonnay or a decent Margaux!

The missing criterion:

Has to be Imola Red/ black leather.
by Mike123
Fri 05 Jun, 2015 14:19
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: May be a Sad Day................

Hi Alfie The Prodrive day was the first major outing for the Z - a valuable learning experience, and good company! OK, you want some clues. My other cars are an Alpina B12 ( a fast long distance cruiser), an X5 4.8iS (everyday runabout, some green lane weekends), and the missus has a 325i Baur Cabri...
by Mike123
Thu 04 Jun, 2015 17:07
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: May be a Sad Day................
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

May be a Sad Day................

After 10 years of pure enjoyment, this Saturday may be the last drive in the Z3M :bawl: The car is still great, but the time has probably come to compromise a little - a bit more comfort, easier access, but similar fun and performance, and a hint of rawness! :twisted: I was planning to give it one m...
by Mike123
Wed 08 Apr, 2015 08:13
Forum: Z4M roadster and Z4m coupé
Topic: Nearly bought this...............
Replies: 2
Views: 4098

Nearly bought this...............

http://www.norwichsportsandclassics.co. ... er/34134/0

................but just couldn't let the Z3M go.

There's a good looking silver one at the same place.
by Mike123
Wed 25 Mar, 2015 22:38
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: New Owner - Imola Roadster with Rare Blue Interior
Replies: 3
Views: 1641

New Owner - Imola Roadster with Rare Blue Interior

Image
He'll be faster when his feet reach the floor!
by Mike123
Thu 19 Mar, 2015 18:14
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: M cars
Replies: 93
Views: 14776

Re: M cars

I'm impressed that you can produce such a detailed list, Tilly :pc

I've just quickly scanned my receipts over 10 years, they total about £12k, so £1,200 per year, 15p per mile.
by Mike123
Wed 18 Mar, 2015 01:08
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: M cars
Replies: 93
Views: 14776

Re: M cars

?.......... People forget the z3ms are high matainace cars that will need a lot of work to keep them tip top with there increasing age. Funny, I would say the opposite about a Z3m. I struggle to think of a 300+ BHP Classic car that's as cheap to run :?: I agree, Jonttt. I'm coming up to 10 years an...
by Mike123
Fri 13 Mar, 2015 08:21
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: M cars
Replies: 93
Views: 14776

Re: M cars

Alfie wrote:@jonttt....

You know how a matching pair of antiques is worth SO MUCH MORE than twice the price of one..... :?: :?: :?:

:D

A.
Sorry, Alfie, I don't think we'd get much for you and Jonttt......

.......now your cars might be a different story! :idea:
by Mike123
Sun 15 Feb, 2015 18:45
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Wow...how low can you go!
Replies: 16
Views: 2327

Re: Wow...how low can you go!

Fabulous photographs!

Being a 'driver' I'm normally not keen on show cars, but I have to say this is a Mean Machine. :twisted:
by Mike123
Mon 22 Dec, 2014 17:44
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ZM and 3.0 sport
Replies: 23
Views: 5397

Re: ZM and 3.0 sport

The 3.0i and the M are both touring cars, and neither can be considered as a sports car, both having dodgy handling. The 3.0i has more than sufficient performance for its roll in life, who needs the M.? I would suggest any one looking for a proper sports car having power to spare and perfect handli...
by Mike123
Mon 22 Dec, 2014 07:59
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ZM and 3.0 sport
Replies: 23
Views: 5397

Re: ZM and 3.0 sport

Not driven any other Z, but 80k+ miles in the M over 10 years, so I've got to know it quite well. I've driven a lot of fast miles in many different cars, some more powerful, some less, so BHP is not the simple answer to speed or enjoyment, and I'm sure the smaller engined Zs can be great to drive, t...
by Mike123
Sun 21 Dec, 2014 08:00
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rear tyres on Z3 - Is this illegal?
Replies: 21
Views: 6684

Re: Rear tyres on Z3 - Is this illegal?

I think common sense takes precedence over legality. It comes down to where and how you drive. On a dry track there would be plenty of grip from these tyres, on a very wet road minimal grip as there's nowhere for the water to go, so the tyre doesn't make effective contact with the road. If you drive...
by Mike123
Sat 13 Dec, 2014 16:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Mazda MX5 OR BMW Z3? Your views guys...
Replies: 82
Views: 29969

Re: Mazda MX5 OR BMW Z3? Your views guys...

MX5s and Boxsters are for polishers. :roll:

Z3s, particularly Z3Ms, are for drivers. :twisted:

£8k gets a decent Z3M.

If you're a driver,there's no choice. If you're a polisher, tough decision.


....well, you asked for my views!

:wink:
by Mike123
Sat 13 Dec, 2014 10:46
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Disaster - Advice needed
Replies: 19
Views: 5371

Re: Disaster - Advice needed

Firstly, having had a couple of similar situations in the past, with cars that I loved, I know exactly how you feel. One was a complete write off - a friend borrowed the car and managed a head-on, the other was more like your situation - a close call financially. I decided to get the car repaired be...
by Mike123
Sun 30 Nov, 2014 18:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Steering wheel
Replies: 47
Views: 12715

Re: Steering wheel

They are about that price, dependant on final choice, plus £15 fitting.
by Mike123
Sun 30 Nov, 2014 17:22
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Steering wheel
Replies: 47
Views: 12715

Re: Steering wheel

Jack will do whatever you want - perforated sections is one of the standard options. He carries some stock items, but will make one to your spec if you are prepared to wait. The cheapest option is an exchange wheel. I drove to his address in Aylesbury, and he swapped the wheels in less than half an ...
by Mike123
Sun 30 Nov, 2014 11:16
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Steering wheel
Replies: 47
Views: 12715

Re: Steering wheel

It could be my post (bottom of page):

http://www.zroadster.net/forum/viewtopi ... =6&t=40636

I'm delighted with the service and the result. :)
by Mike123
Wed 29 Oct, 2014 14:01
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: Wanted: Front Z3M bilstein b8 dampers
Replies: 2
Views: 1364

Re: Wanted: Front Z3M bilstein b8 dampers

I bought my B6s from http://www.mk-fahrwerkstechnik.de/navi.php?k=20095 Best price at the time, no delivery problems. You'll probably need to replace the top bearing mounts - the ball bearings were shot on mine - (Item 1): http://bmwfans.info/parts-catalog/Z3-Roadster/Europe/Z3_M3.2-S50/R-N/jul1998/...
by Mike123
Sun 28 Sep, 2014 15:58
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Tyre / Wheel size
Replies: 10
Views: 2995

Re: Tyre / Wheel size

I would not worry about the difference for the existing tyres, the speedo will be within 1mph at 60mph, the diameter 8 or 9mm difference, which is hardly more than a new/ bald tyre difference. Petecossie is probably right, maybe it was my imagination, but I would still change to standard sizes next ...
by Mike123
Sun 28 Sep, 2014 08:32
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Tyre / Wheel size
Replies: 10
Views: 2995

Re: Tyre / Wheel size

If they are standard wheels I recommend changing to stock size tyres at the next change.

It's not vital, but I've tried the larger width on the front, and felt that there was detectable movement in the tyre in hard cornering which I didn't like, so went back to standard.
by Mike123
Thu 25 Sep, 2014 13:20
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Z3M Roadster S50 1999 54000 miles. Should I use it all year?
Replies: 9
Views: 2912

Re: Z3M Roadster S50 1999 54000 miles. Should I use it all y

You will be missing out on some fun drives if you don't take the Z out through the winter. You definitely need the winter tyres, but not the bag of sand - you need to keep the car's excellent balance - the winter tyres will give you the traction. I've run the Z through 9 winters with absolutely no d...
by Mike123
Tue 23 Sep, 2014 22:17
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Matching Tyres on 1999 S50 M Roadster?
Replies: 3
Views: 1746

Re: Matching Tyres on 1999 S50 M Roadster?

My personal opinion is that tyres are the most significant factor with a Z3M's handling, and I would definitely recommend a matched set, both in terms of make and tread depth, but it obviously depends on whether you plan to push the car's limits. With the differing sizes you can't swap front to rear...
by Mike123
Sat 13 Sep, 2014 17:52
Forum: Better Driving
Topic: So you think you're quick!.................
Replies: 1
Views: 5028

So you think you're quick!.................

Forget the Nurburgring......

http://www.bbc.com/autos/story/20140702 ... otage-ever

The section just after 10 minutes in is mind-blowing!

WOW!!!!!

Where's the Z3M - I'm going to try that through Hampton-in -Arden...........
by Mike123
Sun 31 Aug, 2014 21:47
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Suspension refresh and upgrade - parts list and where to buy
Replies: 13
Views: 4996

Re: Suspension refresh and upgrade - parts list and where to

[quote=Mike123]OEM front shock mounts (badly worn at 93k miles)[/quote] Mike, which bits of the front shock mounts were worn? I've had a look at this: http://bmwfans.info/parts-catalog/Z3-Roadster/Europe/Z3_M3.2-S50/R-N/jul1998/browse/front_axle/guide_support_spring_pad_attaching_parts/ I'm guessing...
by Mike123
Fri 29 Aug, 2014 17:47
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: Speedster cover
Replies: 9
Views: 1447

Re: Speedster cover

Personal opinion.................

................YEEEEEUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:devil:
by Mike123
Thu 28 Aug, 2014 13:25
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Suspension refresh and upgrade - parts list and where to buy
Replies: 13
Views: 4996

Re: Suspension refresh and upgrade - parts list and where to

The Rugue mounts were directly from Rogue Engineering in the US - I couldn't find a local supplier. The Powerflex bushes were bought through eBay, although I can't see an equivalent current item - Larkspeed are stockists and usually helpful. The front polybushes are easy, the rears a bigger job, so ...
by Mike123
Wed 27 Aug, 2014 22:05
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Suspension refresh and upgrade - parts list and where to buy
Replies: 13
Views: 4996

Re: Suspension refresh and upgrade - parts list and where to

It's always a bit daunting trying to improve a car developed by the M Division. I've just gone through a very similar exercise, reaching almost identical conclusions, and now there's a mixture of relief and delight that the car is riding as well as ever, if not better, and the handling is significan...
by Mike123
Mon 25 Aug, 2014 07:49
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: A Little Treat for the Z
Replies: 20
Views: 4926

Re: A Little Treat for the Z

Final piece of the jigsaw: http://i1002.photobucket.com/albums/af148/arc123uk/image.jpeg A beautiful replacement steering wheel made and fitted by Jack at Royal Steering Wheels. http://royalsteeringwheels.com/ Slightly thicker rim. I did consider perforated side sections as an option, but went for t...
by Mike123
Mon 18 Aug, 2014 22:16
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Purchasing a Z3M
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: Purchasing a Z3M

Just read the listing for the car (thanks Gary!) - looks really good! You need to replace the rear tyres as a matter of urgency - I'm sure the P7s are fine, so matching rears would be a good solution, although I've not used them myself. High quality front tyres with good tread depth and cheapo rears...
by Mike123
Mon 18 Aug, 2014 21:49
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Purchasing a Z3M
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: Purchasing a Z3M

I think green really suits the Z - a touch of the British Racing Green classic sports car. 8-) 8-)

Welcome to the club - as Tilly and I have found (and many others) they are Zeductive and Zurprisingly good to drive :oops: :oops:

Here's to many happy years of Zedding! :cheers
by Mike123
Mon 18 Aug, 2014 16:39
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Purchasing a Z3M
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: Purchasing a Z3M

Hi Tilly

That is an interesting and rare car indeed! Must be the earliest Z3M in the UK. 8-)

Have you owned it from new?

Mike
by Mike123
Sun 17 Aug, 2014 22:19
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Purchasing a Z3M
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: Purchasing a Z3M

Tilly wrote:Almost two decades with the M ......
Ah, one of the rare '94 Ms.....I heard that they suffered from aquaplaning! :wink:
by Mike123
Sun 17 Aug, 2014 08:54
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Purchasing a Z3M
Replies: 25
Views: 6776

Re: Purchasing a Z3M

10 years and 80k miles in my beloved S50 means I can shout the following: Z3Ms ARE NOT TAIL HAPPY :!: :!: :!: :!: Yes, there's enough power to spin the wheels if you feel like it, and yes it has a short wheelbase which means that power drifts are best left to Chris Harris and Tiff, but there is plen...
by Mike123
Thu 14 Aug, 2014 16:37
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: A Little Treat for the Z
Replies: 20
Views: 4926

Re: A Little Treat for the Z

Decided against the logos, but just picked the Z up after seats, door cards, and interior trim refurbished to 'as new' condition by Dave at http://autoretrim.co.uk/. Great bloke, excellent, friendly service, and he knows his stuff! 8-) If you're in the Midlands area with a tired interior this is the...