Sponsored by The Tire Rack

[BeamingE39]

Hi new member here, I'm getting a 2012 M3 and I would like some advice from you guys. I frequently travel in Los Angeles cities which aren't as bad as NYC but definately aren't pristine either. I would like a ride that isn't too harsh as its going to be a DD. From what I've read the 18s provide better ride quality to a disputable degree over 19s, some saying its way more comfortable while others saying its barely noticable. So rather than take a chance I'd rather just get the 18s (plus I've also heard 18s handle better). With 18s is having EDC still a must for city streets? If you guys could compare the ride quality to a 328/335 w/ 18s+RFTs that'd also be a huge help. O and if you guys were wondering why I'd skimp on the EDC when its only $1000, it's because it adds alot more complex moving parts which if possible I'd rather do without in case they add up to costly repairs after warranty (I plan on keeping this one for 10+ years, 120k+ miles)

[kmarei]

I bought my 08 M3 without EDC and with 18" wheels
Car felt perfect
The stock suspension is probably one of the best setup suspension setups I've ever driven.
Not too soft, not too hard
My car is a daily driver, so comfort is a must

I went to 19s
Hate them
Ordered my 2012 M3 with comp pack
But selling the 19" wheels and going back to 18s

[bigjae1976]

In the NE...EDC will help. Non EDC and 18s aren't bad but it is still firm. It's a little harder than my E46 330 w/ the sport pkg.

[BeamingE39]

Thanks for the responses guys, if anyone else has this setup or has driven a car with it please post your feelings as a DD. I'd ideally get my M no DCT, no EDC for optimal reliability but DD + LA gridlock traffic pretty much makes DCT a must. Never been to New England, but I'm guessing they're worse than LA? Also never driven or rode in a e46 330i w/ZSP but I can guess it's fairly soft simply because it's marketed as a daily driver.

[1sikbmr]

I drove both 18s with and without edc. To tell you the truth the edc doesn't really do much AFAIK. I ended up with one without edc and love it and I live in NY so that must mean something

[bigjae1976]

Quite frankly, I couldn't tell the difference during my extended test drive but it was in Austin where the roads are mostly good.

I'd pass on the EDC...my personal opinion. Especially if you plan to keep it for a long time...just a more expensive thing to replace.

[isugoo]

When my car was new condition, I didn't feel much difference on EDC settings but about 6 months so after (when suspensions are settled), I feel much different between comfort and the sport or normal (I had stock 18s back in the days).

Prob. I'll not buy E9X M3 without EDC as they work perfectly for both, workday commute and weekend driving.

I'm 35 years old if it matters (in my opinion, getting old has something to do with it).

[2m3]

I have 2008 e92 with only option is EDC and 18" wheel. I personally think the EDC option for $1,000 is top on my list. It makes the E92 with multiple personalities.

The soft setting on EDC combined with 18" wheel/tire is the best for Socal local street and freeway. I and passenger feel no bouncing/ squat/dive.

My only wish is to to reduce the front fender gap, but been there done that on my e30 and e36 (coilover kit, etc).

[BeamingE39]

Based on the responses my impression is that going without EDC is less comfortable but not uncomfortable; plus if if Kmarei and 1sikbmr drive theres in D.C. and N.Y.C. without complaints as a DD it really can't be too bad. If anyone has had a contradictory experience where going without EDC proved to be uncomfortable for a metropolitan area or just somewhere with bad roads please respond. I only have a few more days before no more changes can be made.

[bigjae1976]

I just drove a 328i loaner with sport pkg today. My M3 w/o EDC was more comfortable than the 328i.

I think you'll be OK either way. If you do keep it forever then I say pass. You'll have to replace those shocks which I am willng to bet aren't cheap. Plus, I'm sure you'll have a lot more options with non-EDC cars later on.

[cb4]

Originally Posted by bigjae1976

I just drove a 328i loaner with sport pkg today. My M3 w/o EDC was more comfortable that the 328i.

That is not surprising considering the non-M 3er have rft. The 3 with normal tires is a much better ride than the rft, but not necessarily better than the M.

[BeamingE39]

Well if its even more comfortable than a ZSP 3er than no-EDC it is. I really appreciate you guys helping a new member out

[h4nh]

I have 18" oems, EDC, and h&r springs. They feel comfortable/ sporty with edc off. It stiffens up pretty well with it on. I usually have it off because you'll feel the bumps in the road it'll give you a headache. If you're buying the car just to drive normally then don't get it. If you want something to play with then yes do it!

[gobrigavitch]

To the OP.

What you will think of the ride is a personal thing, but I will give my take as it may help

I have EDC and 18" wheels. You can definitely feel the EDC making a difference. On Comfort the ride is firm (still has firm springs and roll bars), but the little bumps and cracks are soaked up reasonable well. On Sport you feel every little bump on top of the firm ride.

No matter what you get in an M3 the ride will be firm. It's considerably firmer than a stock 328i. You will feel every little bump and roll in the road. It's more a sports car ride than a family sedan ride if that makes sense. As a daily driver it's a little rougher than I would ideally like, but I put up with it as I want the kick ass handling.

Go into this with your eyes open. Don't expect a car that will have a plush smooth ride and still handle like a sports car. If you keep your expectations realistic you should be OK.

[stefan]

I have 18s without EDC and it's perfect. I initially thought I'd want a firmer ride. But it's pretty much perfect for daily driving. I certainly wouldn't want any softer though in any circumstance.