How would you describe the driveability of a stock 318is? I mean that if you change aboce mentioned parts how much would it differ from the orgininal?
To my knowledge the suspensions is quite similar to the E30 m3 so I would imagine that it should be quite good as it is?
The reason for these questions is that I'm thinking about to purcahse a E30 318is as a track-day car with sensible (not minimum) costs. Upgrades would be also sensible e.g new shocks and springs, better brake pads etc.
Is there any area or part that is a must thing to change or upgrade in the suspension when it comes to driveability or in general?
Drivability of a stock 318iS - I cannot comment as all my cars have been freshened with new aftermarket stuff. I have never replaced all components with stock as it's an opportunity for me to upgrade to what's in a higher performance category than what was originally put on there.
This doesn't mean it doesn't differ if you were to do a "good as new" overhaul with all stock pieces. You will notice the car handles better depending on the overall condition and prior maintenance history. Obviously if the car was worse off prior to the "refresh" it will feel much better than a car which wasn't too far off (not many like this exist, if at all)
E30m3 vs e30m42 suspension - Bigger hubs, 5l ug vs 4 lug, bigger brakes, larger rotors, bigger LSD, Springs and shocks are interchangeable but not the same, offset Control Arm Bushings, Aluminum Control Arms, Different front sway bar anchor points :: s14 has sway bar pick up on strut vs control arm on m42 :: bigger rear sway bar. (This is all I remember off the top of my head). I would say they are not the same.
I think you are on the right track with the right approach. Opinions vary but the list I gave can be used as a guide. If the PO already did the steering rack and tie rod ends, no need to replace them. Control Arm bushings, go with the e30m3 version or other one depending on your desire.
If you have your eye on a particular car you know what to check, if you're still looking don't always go for the cheapest car that is in need of mods, it can sometimes cost you more.
Hope this helps.
G.Luck
