It is a ball to drive and handles very well but could still use some improvements like more power, it is rated at 108hp at the crankshaft. It's pretty zippy, only weighing a little over 2000lbs helps.
The first modification was installing Eibach springs, 17x7 wheels and 215/45/17 tires about a week after purchase.
I have installed some Porterfield R4S carbon/kevlar brake pads, these make a noticeable improvement and produce very little dust. .
21 Feb 2004: I fabricated a lower front subframe brace to replace the cheesy factory braces and modified some urethane sway bar end link bushings to fit. The installation was a breeze and they seem to work well. With these installed it makes the stock 23mm (15/16") sway bar much more effective so I have decided not to install aftermarket sway bars.
Stock sway bar end link with mushy rubber bushings.
The upper link has been modified by shortening the urethane bushings to about .400" (not including the locating lip) and shortening the center sleeve to 1.25" long. I shortened the sleeve to 1" before installation to maintian close to stock overall length between mounting surfaces.
Urethane end link installed. It fits like stock after the modifications.
I've dirven the car about a week with these links installed, it definately increases the effectiveness of the sway bar.
The front brace seems to help tighten up the feeling of the car. When I get a chance I will come up with a way to brace the front of the subframe, fabricate a strut tower brace, and a rear subframe brace.
I have begun work on a prototype air intake but have been sidetracked
with BMW projects to complete it. If my ideas work it will make more power
than any other avialable intake. I'll post pics when it's completed and
tested.
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