Z4M Modifications

scotia_steve74 · 03-20-2008, 06:43 AM

First of all I have to say I'm loving the Z4M Coupe - by far the best car I have owned!

So far I have only done the following mods:

S2000 Beesting Aerial
StormWorks V1 Gear Lever (Titanium)
Hi-Fi Upgrade (BMW)

I plan to do all or some of the following and want to ask peoples advice on each one - differences and whether they are worth it?

1. Strut Brace - does it really make a difference?
2. CSL Wheels - is that ride harder, grip better?
3. Aero Side Skirts - Look the part?
4. Gruppe M Air Intake - Better sound?

Cheers

Steve

MMMazing07 · 03-20-2008, 07:44 AM

The strut brace doesnt really do anything. Mostly for looks. Wider wheels will always give you better perfomance so id say get a set of wheels. You could find the aero skirts on tischer mileoneparts.com. The gruppe M makes such a sweet sound but here inthe US none of us can get our hands on it.

You can do those. But get some other wheels than CSLs. There too common on our cars. You can do full exhaust and susepnsion. Its all up to you if you want to focus on performance or comestics.

Hawkeye · 03-20-2008, 08:09 AM

You should be alright with CSLs, they are not common on Zeds in scotland from what I have seen (Invisible Kid). I like the CSLs myself. You shouldn't get any rougher of a ride unless you go up in rim size.

I hear mixed reviews on the strut brace, probably won't notice anything unless you track the car.

I personally think the side skirts on the M are a waste, it looks beastly already.

I am not sure of the Gruppe intake but I know a mot of people have been getting the RPI addition that just funnels the air into the intake better.

What is an S2000 Beesting Aerial? Welcome to the site

sales@ESSTuning · 03-20-2008, 09:01 AM

1. Strut Brace - does it really make a difference?
I noticed an improvement with mine.

2. CSL Wheels - is that ride harder, grip better?
Ride is not much harder then stock, the wider rubber will get you better grip.

3. Aero Side Skirts - Look the part?
I love them on the car but it is a personal preference.

4. Gruppe M Air Intake - Better sound?
The RPI scoop and some software would net you more power and smoother engine performance for the money.

scotia_steve74 · 03-20-2008, 09:12 AM

I forgot to mention, I managed to get the CDV change done by a BMW tech, so that will make a huge difference!

CSL wheels seem the best option then and the Aero intake. I had a change or intake on the R32 (VW) and that made a huge difference to the sound. £499 UK here so not cheap!

Love the V1 Stormworks gearknob, bit chilly on cold days but was an Ebay find and a bargain!

Dammmittt · 03-20-2008, 06:12 PM

My thoughts...

1. What's the S2000 beesting thing?

2. Strut bar isn't going to be noticeable outsid of the track...and it's a minor improvement at best. Cosmetically I like matching strut bars

3. CSL wheels...If you like the CSLs...why not go MORR alloys VS7...They're lighter, usually cheaper, easier to get your hands on and they are arguably better looking

4. Aero side skirts aren't really aerodynamic...so if you like more creases on your car...just got for it.

5. Gruppe M intake, IMHO is overprices...I'd agree with ROM3N on the RPI scoop and software instead

6. Enjoy the hell out of it

scotia_steve74 · 03-21-2008, 07:43 AM

Beesting aerial is a replacement stubby from the Honda S2000 - supposed to fit and have a good reception! Due to arrive today...

Just had the CDV replacement done at a local dealer - very good changes now and no kangarooing!

Any pics of the MORR VS7 rims?

So where do I buy the RPI scoop - does it need software?

Hawkeye · 03-21-2008, 09:03 AM

No software, you can find out much info about it in this thread

http://www.zpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=108101

Most people here just call the antennas a stubby (from Mangowalk on ebay for $8)

The CDV and a new shift knob are my next mods...

scotia_steve74 · 03-21-2008, 10:41 AM

I tried another stubby first - metal black one from Ebay but the FM reception is not so good...

CDV mod is just simply brilliant!

I still like the GruppeM....

Dammmittt · 03-21-2008, 10:48 AM

Here are the VS7s on Rom3n's ride.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=265885

AtoB · 03-21-2008, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dammmittt

Here are the VS7s on Rom3n's ride.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=265885

those wheels are fantastic!

Hawkeye · 03-21-2008, 11:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scotia_steve74

I tried another stubby first - metal black one from Ebay but the FM reception is not so good...

CDV mod is just simply brilliant!

I still like the GruppeM....

Thats odd. The FM antenna is in your rear bumper. The one sticking out from the car is only used for AM frequencies.

Perhaps it was a mental thing?

speedygirl · 03-21-2008, 11:59 AM

Can someone explain what the CDV mod does? Thanks!

Dammmittt · 03-21-2008, 12:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by speedygirl

Can someone explain what the CDV mod does? Thanks!

You could

since it's been beaten to death, but I'll help you out.

The CDV (Clutch Delay Valve) is installed on Z4 manual transmissions. Getting the modified CDV essentially removes the delay and allows you to shift like a normal person.

karmasabish · 03-21-2008, 12:59 PM

good question

scotia_steve74 · 03-21-2008, 01:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hawkeye

Thats odd. The FM antenna is in your rear bumper. The one sticking out from the car is only used for AM frequencies.

Perhaps it was a mental thing?

Nope, radio fading in and out with the new aerial. Maybe UK spec cars have FM in the stubby too?

ovrkll · 03-21-2008, 04:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hawkeye

Thats odd. The FM antenna is in your rear bumper. The one sticking out from the car is only used for AM frequencies.

Perhaps it was a mental thing?

Hate to tell you, but the one in the bumper is for bluetooth/GPS and the aerial is for AM and FM. Check your owners manual or online at BMW Assist

scotia_steve74 · 03-22-2008, 04:31 AM

Hopefully the Honda stubby that arrives today will do the trick

pbdm4k · 03-22-2008, 04:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scotia_steve74

Hopefully the Honda stubby that arrives today will do the trick

Although I've never been a Honda fan, the S2K antenna works great for me!

scotia_steve74 · 03-22-2008, 08:56 AM

So it fits

Was taking a chance....

Hawkeye · 03-22-2008, 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ovrkll

Hate to tell you, but the one in the bumper is for bluetooth/GPS and the aerial is for AM and FM. Check your owners manual or online at BMW Assist

And here I was thinking the internet was a reliable source of information

Actually I have read that on this forum several times... grr. Thanks for the clarity!

Dammmittt · 03-22-2008, 06:54 PM

I think there's some info on it in the Z4 FAQ on bimmerfest

03-20-2008, 06:43 AM	#1
scotia_steve74 Z4M Coupe 2 Rep 18 Posts Drives: 08 Z4 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	Z4M Modifications - Advice? First of all I have to say I'm loving the Z4M Coupe - by far the best car I have owned! So far I have only done the following mods: S2000 Beesting Aerial StormWorks V1 Gear Lever (Titanium) Hi-Fi Upgrade (BMW) I plan to do all or some of the following and want to ask peoples advice on each one - differences and whether they are worth it? 1. Strut Brace - does it really make a difference? 2. CSL Wheels - is that ride harder, grip better? 3. Aero Side Skirts - Look the part? 4. Gruppe M Air Intake - Better sound? Cheers Steve __________________ My car and bike photos - http://www.justhypemedia.com
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03-20-2008, 07:44 AM	#2
MMMazing07 More than you can afford pal....ferrari 180 Rep 1,471 Posts Drives: Z4M Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: MD iTrader: (0)	The strut brace doesnt really do anything. Mostly for looks. Wider wheels will always give you better perfomance so id say get a set of wheels. You could find the aero skirts on tischer mileoneparts.com. The gruppe M makes such a sweet sound but here inthe US none of us can get our hands on it. You can do those. But get some other wheels than CSLs. There too common on our cars. You can do full exhaust and susepnsion. Its all up to you if you want to focus on performance or comestics.
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03-20-2008, 08:09 AM	#3
Hawkeye Brigadier General 2070 Rep 4,365 Posts Drives: '07 Z4 Coupe, '21 X3, '16 GMC Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Iowa iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 GMC Sierra SLT [10.00] 2008 Yamaha R6 [9.00]	You should be alright with CSLs, they are not common on Zeds in scotland from what I have seen (Invisible Kid). I like the CSLs myself. You shouldn't get any rougher of a ride unless you go up in rim size. I hear mixed reviews on the strut brace, probably won't notice anything unless you track the car. I personally think the side skirts on the M are a waste, it looks beastly already. I am not sure of the Gruppe intake but I know a mot of people have been getting the RPI addition that just funnels the air into the intake better. What is an S2000 Beesting Aerial? Welcome to the site __________________ 2007 Z4 3.0si Coupe • 6 MT • Black Saphire Metallic • PP • SP 2016 GMC Sierra SLT Z71 Premium Plus 4x4 2017 Harley StreetGlide • Denim Black • V&H Tune 2021 BMW x30i • Phytonic Blue Metallic • Fully loaded
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03-20-2008, 09:01 AM	#4
sales@ESSTuning 390 Rep 3,149 Posts Drives: ESS M3 / M4 Join Date: May 2007 Location: AZ iTrader: (6)	1. Strut Brace - does it really make a difference? I noticed an improvement with mine. 2. CSL Wheels - is that ride harder, grip better? Ride is not much harder then stock, the wider rubber will get you better grip. 3. Aero Side Skirts - Look the part? I love them on the car but it is a personal preference. 4. Gruppe M Air Intake - Better sound? The RPI scoop and some software would net you more power and smoother engine performance for the money.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-20-2008, 09:12 AM	#5
scotia_steve74 Z4M Coupe 2 Rep 18 Posts Drives: 08 Z4 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	I forgot to mention, I managed to get the CDV change done by a BMW tech, so that will make a huge difference! CSL wheels seem the best option then and the Aero intake. I had a change or intake on the R32 (VW) and that made a huge difference to the sound. £499 UK here so not cheap! Love the V1 Stormworks gearknob, bit chilly on cold days but was an Ebay find and a bargain! __________________ My car and bike photos - http://www.justhypemedia.com
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-20-2008, 06:12 PM	#6
Dammmittt My favorite sign. 167 Rep 4,333 Posts Drives: 2007 M Coupe Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Der Autobahnen iTrader: (0)	My thoughts... 1. What's the S2000 beesting thing? 2. Strut bar isn't going to be noticeable outsid of the track...and it's a minor improvement at best. Cosmetically I like matching strut bars 3. CSL wheels...If you like the CSLs...why not go MORR alloys VS7...They're lighter, usually cheaper, easier to get your hands on and they are arguably better looking 4. Aero side skirts aren't really aerodynamic...so if you like more creases on your car...just got for it. 5. Gruppe M intake, IMHO is overprices...I'd agree with ROM3N on the RPI scoop and software instead 6. Enjoy the hell out of it __________________ 07 ///M Coupe (Premium Package) Black Saphire Ext. Imola Red Int. Best Website EVER!
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03-21-2008, 07:43 AM	#7
scotia_steve74 Z4M Coupe 2 Rep 18 Posts Drives: 08 Z4 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	Beesting aerial is a replacement stubby from the Honda S2000 - supposed to fit and have a good reception! Due to arrive today... Just had the CDV replacement done at a local dealer - very good changes now and no kangarooing! Any pics of the MORR VS7 rims? So where do I buy the RPI scoop - does it need software? __________________ My car and bike photos - http://www.justhypemedia.com
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-21-2008, 09:03 AM	#8
Hawkeye Brigadier General 2070 Rep 4,365 Posts Drives: '07 Z4 Coupe, '21 X3, '16 GMC Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Iowa iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 GMC Sierra SLT [10.00] 2008 Yamaha R6 [9.00]	No software, you can find out much info about it in this thread http://www.zpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=108101 Most people here just call the antennas a stubby (from Mangowalk on ebay for $8) The CDV and a new shift knob are my next mods... __________________ 2007 Z4 3.0si Coupe • 6 MT • Black Saphire Metallic • PP • SP 2016 GMC Sierra SLT Z71 Premium Plus 4x4 2017 Harley StreetGlide • Denim Black • V&H Tune 2021 BMW x30i • Phytonic Blue Metallic • Fully loaded
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03-21-2008, 10:41 AM	#9
scotia_steve74 Z4M Coupe 2 Rep 18 Posts Drives: 08 Z4 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	I tried another stubby first - metal black one from Ebay but the FM reception is not so good... CDV mod is just simply brilliant! I still like the GruppeM.... __________________ My car and bike photos - http://www.justhypemedia.com
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-21-2008, 10:48 AM	#10
Dammmittt My favorite sign. 167 Rep 4,333 Posts Drives: 2007 M Coupe Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Der Autobahnen iTrader: (0)	Here are the VS7s on Rom3n's ride. http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=265885 __________________ 07 ///M Coupe (Premium Package) Black Saphire Ext. Imola Red Int. Best Website EVER!
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03-21-2008, 11:59 AM	#13
speedygirl Private 1 Rep 74 Posts Drives: 2006 Z4 3.0si, Jet Black Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Toronto, Canada iTrader: (0)	Can someone explain what the CDV mod does? Thanks! __________________ Nooooooooooooooo!
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03-21-2008, 12:59 PM	#15
karmasabish Lieutenant 37 Rep 420 Posts Drives: 06 M Roadster Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Los Angeles iTrader: (0)	good question
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03-22-2008, 04:31 AM	#18
scotia_steve74 Z4M Coupe 2 Rep 18 Posts Drives: 08 Z4 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	Hopefully the Honda stubby that arrives today will do the trick __________________ My car and bike photos - http://www.justhypemedia.com
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03-22-2008, 08:56 AM	#20
scotia_steve74 Z4M Coupe 2 Rep 18 Posts Drives: 08 Z4 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	So it fits Was taking a chance.... __________________ My car and bike photos - http://www.justhypemedia.com
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03-22-2008, 06:54 PM	#22
Dammmittt My favorite sign. 167 Rep 4,333 Posts Drives: 2007 M Coupe Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Der Autobahnen iTrader: (0)	I think there's some info on it in the Z4 FAQ on bimmerfest __________________ 07 ///M Coupe (Premium Package) Black Saphire Ext. Imola Red Int. Best Website EVER!
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