Kinda lookin' for an M-coupe

Yep, I have the M-coupe bug!
Done the FAQ and search things here.
Have a few questions for anyone not too busy to answer them.

1. Euro-spec S52 engines had 320 hp rather than the 240 of US spec, correct? How difficult is it to get a US spec S52 up to Euro spec? What are the drawbacks?

2. Aside from the engines, what are the main differences between the '99-'00 and '01-'02 M-coupes?

3. How rare is Oxford Green? I may have located a 2000 OG M-coupe in Illinois (I'm in Calif. and waiting to get an e-mail reply from the dealer).

4. How well does a single-DIN Head Unit fit? I'm thinking of a Kenwood single-DIN Stereo/DVD/Nav unit with a Music Keg added.

5. Can Xenon HID headlights be fitted without too much difficulty -- my '04 325xiT has spoiled me!

6. Aside from the rear sub-frame cracking issue, for what else should I be watchful.

Thanks for any help,

Reply » Kinda lookin' for an M-coupe

Quote:

Im pretty sure that no S52s had 320hp, maby the S54 does but not the S52
Head unit is not a problem at all fitting

Reply » Kinda lookin' for an M-coupe

1. Euro-spec S52 engines had 320 hp rather than the 240 of US spec, correct? How difficult is it to get a US spec S52 up to Euro spec? What are the drawbacks?

Its easy to get it to euro spec. Get an 2001 or 2002 with an S54.

2. Aside from the engines, what are the main differences between the '99-'00 and '01-'02 M-coupes?

The S54 has DSC (much much better), Tire pressure monitor, comes with a CD player, wheels are finished different. SRS is different. Wiring is different. Thats all I can think of.

3. How rare is Oxford Green? I may have located a 2000 OG M-coupe in Illinois (I'm in Calif. and waiting to get an e-mail reply from the dealer).

You can check on 368s.com for a list of cars. Oxford green on an M, I dont think I have seen one.

4. How well does a single-DIN Head Unit fit? I'm thinking of a Kenwood single-DIN Stereo/DVD/Nav unit with a Music Keg added.

Pops right in in seconds, literally. I would get a traffic pro with phatbox. They are made for eachother. Phatbox=music keg

5. Can Xenon HID headlights be fitted without too much difficulty -- my '04 325xiT has spoiled me!

Sure, several people have done it. Projector Z for one. There are other kits out there that just add it.

6. Aside from the rear sub-frame cracking issue, for what else should I be watchful.

Fuel pumps going out. Seat bushings getting loose. I cant think of any more. Anyone?

Thanks for any help,[/quote]

Reply » Kinda lookin' for an M-coupe

S50B30 put out 287 HP DIN (Euro)

S50B32 put out 321 HP DIN (Euro, approx 312 SAE)

S52B32 put out 240 HP SAE (US 3.2)

S54B32 put out 325 HP DIN (Euro) (Approx 320 SAE)

S54B32 put out 315 HP SAE (US)

The difference between the euro and US S54 is just the cats and headers.

The difference between the S54 in the M3 and the S54 in the M Coupe is just the air box and the software.

Reply » Kinda lookin' for an M-coupe

If you're interested in blue, Bob, let me know.

Reply » Kinda lookin' for an M-coupe

Wow! so many quick replies. Thanks all for the really good info.

I'm getting a bit queasy about the Oxford Green one in IL. First, it's a midwest car and has probably been subjected to salt on the roads in winter. Second it has a few mods that kind of say "been driven hard" to me -- racing steering wheel and special hand brake handle for two right off the top of my head. Even though I really like OG, I think I'll pass on this one.

I've located a Silver w/ black leather one close to home (Fullerton, CA). It's a 2000 and is completely stock at 44K miles. Priced at just under $20k. If it's still for sale (waiting for e-mail reply) I'll probably go to Fullerton and look it over.

Ben, Estoril Blue would be very nice, but I'm not sure you would want to let it go for what I can afford (after buying a new 325xiT!). If you think we can arrange a deal, I'd love to get an M coupe from someone on this board, as I'd feel pretty good about it being well cared-for before I got it. E-mail or PM me if you think it won't be a waste of your time.

I can't believe that I'm actually considering owning TWO BMWs!

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