Info on building an E36 M3 for track use

[foscoe944]

Hi everybody, I usually hang out on the Z3 Coupe board. I’m thinking of building an E36 M3 for track use, maybe even racing (IP class most likely) and was wondering if anyone could point me to some good sources of info.

I have an M Coupe, which I track frequently, but it is really set up more for street use and I think it’s about time for a dedicated track car. I don’t really want to turn the M Coupe into a full track car, but I might. Otherwise, I’d likely buy an M3 and convert it. I’m just looking for web sites, blogs, etc. where I could learn something specific to setting up a race prep M3. Any ideas?

Thanks!

[HSV-DAN]

Hey foscoe, your Barber neighbor here... I found a lot of good info on bimmer forums track message threads. It's very prolific site though, lots to seach and sort through.

[foscoe944]

Yeah, that's a good forum too, thanks. I've spent many an hour posting and perusing over there. I was hoping for something that wouldn't require so much searching, just to get me started.

[95DayVI]

I plan on returning to AL ASAP. In so doing I think I shall build up a spec E30 car as it is sooo cheap, and/or buy an e36 race car, in the next year. My current M3 is pretty well tracked out but, it's not a race car... and I don't want to make it so, sentimental.

I am to the point now in my learning that I need something faster to improve, or lighter. Lord knows a spec Miata could teach me something, but a spec e30 sounds funner at least it has more torque. Since I like BMW I will stick with them.

I need a competition license.

I have yet to use Hohos or Toyo RA1/888 so I could learn something from that experience as well.
_______
GC RTAB shims, RSMs, T/S Coilover with Koni DA f/SA R & 450#f/550#r Eibach ERS
Eyeball Arm CA mounts
Sunbelt CAMS w chip for 24# injectors, Euro MAF, Conforti/ITG CAI
96+ exhaust manifolds
Euro fLoAtErS, Ferodo DS2500
accessory UDPs
M roadster lever
All done in my garage

[hsv-dan]

I've read many that say buy something that is decently prepared. Spec e-30 would be fun. What motor do they use? I had a cam'ed 2.7L in my old 325e that was decent.

I have to decide which way to turn, back down and cruise in B class or step up and try to run with the stinkin fast cars that are out there now...

[95DayVI]

stock except for safety. I think camber plates are allowed.

Very simple set of rules. Spec suspension, spec exhaust, cannot mod driveline drastically.... so on & so forth. There is a site and rules are easy to get in pdf form.

If you caught those Miller videos there are spec e30s I let by as that course is so twisty, their corner speeds are high. It wouldn't be the same effect on other tracks I imagine like Barber as power does play there, but Miller less so. For instance I could be way ahead on the front straight and within 3 turns those light weight cars would catch me. I got to where I could hang with them eventually tho, and I need camber plates...

Generally I don't think the "e" is ran as it spins too low. Things have torque tho._______
Silicone intake boot
Silicone rad hoses
EMP Waterpump
PWR Radiator
Eyeball Arm CA mounts
Sunbelt CAMS w chip for 24# injectors, Euro MAF, Conforti/ITG CAI
96+ exhaust manifolds
accessory UDPs
M roadster lever
Euro fLoAtErS
GC RTAB shims, RSMs, T/S Coilover with Koni DA f/SA R & 450#f/550#r Eibach ERS
All done in my garage