I don’t own either one but the e9x has always had a special place in my heart. I remember the day it came out when I was in college watching Top Gear - I’ve lusted after it for many years. I regret not taking a chance on the e9x due to fear of engine failures (rod bearings mainly) - now I realize the problems are less of an issue if the car has preventative maintenance done. Also the design of the e9x generation is not over-styled, smaller size, simple angel eye lights… IMO for those reasons it has a sleek clean design, which BMW as a brand will never have again.
Whos actually had rod bearing failure? thats the real question. I know many people with over 100k on OG bearings no issues.. just sounds like some people dont do oil changes every year
@@Madddoggydog we can go back and forth about the number of reported or unreported cases but the reality is the rod bearing issue exists. Does it exist on the F8x? No it doesnt
@@Madddoggydog From what I’ve heard, it’s a hit or miss with the OG rod bearings going past 30k miles.. I had mine until about 42k and decided to upgrade to the VAC coated rod bearings and high performance main bearings. They have about 10k miles on them.
Seriously Spencer, you bitched about the crank hub, yet didn't bitch about the E9X rod bearings? You bitched about the car being a good A - B but forgot to mention that any E9X takes roughly 15 minutes to come up to temp so if you want to wind it out , it takes an inordinate amount of time before it's fully warmed up and ready to go. Not even going to go about the throttle actuators which when they fail car goes in limp mode (doesnt grenade the car but does require a tow). The DCT in the F8X is fine. First gear honestly is just there to get you going, what else do you need first gear for? Got six other gears to drive in. As for torque its usable when dailying the car. The reason I sold the E9X is because of the lack of torque. It's special on the right road but feels like a 328i in all other scenarios. You have to really wind it up to get power. Sound I'll give you but sound is subjective. The S65 is a great sounding car (not frim factory as its quiet af). The people complained about the S54 in the e46 M3 being raspy as well. You simply can't please everyone. Like legit I'm glad you finally figured out you want another E9x car (if it's so great, I'm surprised it took you so many to figure out it's the right car for you) but stop bashing the F8X platform. I find it hilarious you don't go after the G8X. The TLDR version of this comment is this. The M3 people are the same as the Porsche people. They expect each generation to be the same as the old one but yet somehow not. They're two different cars and evoluations of the gen that preceded it. You have any bitching to do go after Mercedes for sticking a 4 cyl in the new c63 in a year or so. Just remember BMW was/is the last to still have DCTs in their cars. Now the old DCT cars out there are 911s, R8s and things north of six figures. So for what it's worth the F8X chassis still delivers more than its competition and wipes the floor on track with the E9X (speed doesn't lie).
Yup, not a Honda, definitely not a kia, A BMW Brother. E90x the ultimate driving machine. Naturally aspirated motor, BMW Brothers all over the world..!
F8x “too fast” E9x “very very slow” What do we want!! The E9x is definitely a fast car, if you’re saying its “slow” then that’s a very relative statement. Good video though 👍
lol people never know what they want. 400hp is slow in 2021 and 425-450hp is too fast?! i mean i get what they are saying but still we can never be 100 percent happy with a car because it'll be boring otherwise. e.g. the G80 M3/M4 damn near perfect in every way except the weight and now its too boring for us too safe
Its compounded for me since I live in Colorado. The E90 which I would prefer all things being equal will be down %18 on power and given low mid-range torque that will be noticeable. This makes the power difference compared to the F80 even more drastic. I don't love the way the F80 puts down power however. Which I is why I am still stuck on keeping my E60 535i M-sport 6-speed manual with a tune. I can't figure out what my next BMW should be. (I have some other sports cars including a 997.2 C4S which also suffers from power loss, but I still love the way it drives. But do I want two cars down on power, or should I keep one turbocharged? Though I also have a P90D w/ Ludicrous+ for an extreme acceleration fix).
@@ourfutureisdark It's not the HP, its the ft-lb. The torque. The E92 can have 450 and the torque can still be where it's at and it will be a little faster, but still at its quickness from 0-60. People think HP matters but it's actually the torque. HP sells cars but torque wins races.
there is nothing TOO FAST. I had a 2016 F80 Competition and it droves fantastic. Definitely not even close to being too fast. I loved my E92 too. Better was engine, steering and looks.
@@alangil40 - same boat as you, what's next after an M car, seems like Porsche would be the way to go if you do some track and still enjoy it on the street, short of an exotic.
It’s funny because the e9X chassis was my least favorite of the lot but now I appreciate them more and more for just being a fun, high revving, NA, M car! I also miss the premium sound on my e92!! Better stock stereo system than in the f80
@@jason.mart3 Dude, you mentioned the one thing no one else catches… the sound system in the E90 is so damn good. The F80 is fine and I don’t have any complaints but it has nothing on the E90. Anyone who doesn’t know about this detail is lying if they claim they owned both platforms. With that aside, the E90 is obviously heavier to me. I think all the bracing and reinforcement used for the F80 gives it the impression of being heavier; plus it is wider for sure but certainly not heavier. Honestly, my only knock on the E90 is that it carries so much weight. Guess what else weighs the same as the E9X… the G8X. Haha. Love both cars though - own a E90 M3 DCT and a F82 6MT ZCP
Weird take from Mike Mai. For me, being an F80 M3 CS owner, to hear the F8x DCT as being referred to as "ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE", is a bit unexpected. Firstly, who is in 1st gear on track ever? Secondly, 1st gear is what it is... 1st gear lol. I mean, what is there to talk about it's 1st freaking gear. My CS is a blast to drive, handling is extremely competent. It's not snappy at all. 45k miles and I have no idea what Mike Mai is talking about about either way, be it handling, or sound (largely subjective, obvi). Maybe Mike Mai doesn't even know what he's talking about. I guess I will just have to drive an E9x DCT to see giw dreamy they are? I'm totally lost.
Being a F8x owner and it being my first Ⓜ️ car I'd have to agree with the video submissions. I love my F80 and some of the downfalls are definitely the way it sounds. But in my opinion the equal length midpipe does do some justice on making it respectable. If compared to the E9x platform, it doesn't stand a chance. The N/A V8 is just a symphony compared the F8x. Eventually, I want to add a E9x M3 to the garage along with My F80.
The ability to make a ridiculous amount of supercar-beating power and the aggressive DCT is what drew me to the F80/F82 in the first place, it gives the car the ability to be tame yet an animal when it needs to be
Great video bro! This is very helpful to a lotta people. I'm also going with the E92. Once you drive that car, you fall in love with it immediately. The steering is out of this world. That slick and timeless body design by BMW is always attracting attention to you whenever you're in public. I literally get people walking up to me all the time to tell me that my car is amazing. And it's only stock, no mods at all. It makes you feel special. And now I can't be without it. E92 is a rare car, it's appearance always makes a crazy introduction. I'll never ever get rid of mine. That's my Soulmate ❤️
To each it’s own, I really like your point of view and where your coming from, for me personally the F80 is everything I could ask for, every time I drive the car, it feels like the first time I’ve driven it, just absolutely in love and can’t imagine of selling it. Yes the exhaust definitely is the biggest buzz kill but surprisingly, I don’t really care that much about it, I got BM3 on my car and have some light burbles on it, and I am totally happy with it, at the end of the day, I don’t see how you can go wrong with either car lol
It's funny how we all have a reason to validate our definition of good, fast and "better". Coming from an E46 M3, I was never really drawn to the E9X M chassis. I think it's because it's that generation of M cars that gained the most weight and tech that said goodbye to that analog world. Funny how most E9x M owners I knew wanted to added an E46M in their stable. I love the sound of the S65, but when you go to events, meets and more importantly at the track, I hate how, that as much as it sounds good, I wish it matched the power it made. I've heard it all it back in the day, E9x M owners saying, "don't compare our intelligent V8 to a 5.0 Mustang." "Our BMW V8 went to college". "But but but, the power is just right for the chassis." It's like the hype I never understood for the E30 M. "it's so balanced!" "it was quick for it's time!". Again, it's all just personal preference right? Some of it is true, some of it is denial of accepting technology is a bitch and we can't accept an M2 Comp / CS would lap around most previous M cars. The F80 M isn't perfect, but as myopic as this sounds, i love how BMW fixed the problem of a lack of real power from all other generations WHILE having new safety features and tech. I like the F80 M cause I can imagine how nice it must be to have an M car that I don't have to keep saying, "it's because i love how my car sounds and feels" when I lose or prefer not to race. "I know it's slow, but I love how it sounds and that steering!" which is so laughable cause people say that like the E46 M doesn't exist. Long story short, i love and prefer the F80 M cause as much it lost the beautiful sounding V8, i wouldn't be ashamed and making personal excuses when it's time to send it.
Spencer, such a great compilation of car enthusiasts. To hear from Mike who has worked on hundreds of both cars, this speaks volume. I watched your videos of you driving from California to Miami and back. Thanks for sharing. Amazing content.
I think I'm going to go drive my E92 now. As you said every time you drive it, it is an experience. It's simple, I have a 6spd, non-nav.on H&R Race coil-overs...etc. It just feels so good to drive. Even Mustang guys give me thumbs up!
I discuss the topic with a lot car guys . And realized most car enthusiast will choose E9x over F80. Because we focus on the feeling more than speed . N/A V8 just feels right . More and more Ppl will know how special the E9x are .
I’ve owned a lot of M cars from the e36 onwards. Here is the problem with the f8x, it’s the first bmw M car with a true oversteer handling balance. Many enthusiasts will think this is a good thing because understeer=bad but it’s not really the case. The older M cars (e36, e46, e9x) when pushed will default to understeer and only oversteer when really provoked. They will happily oversteer but it’s only when the driver wants them to, not when you’re not expecting it. The chassis feels stable and predictable in any scenario road or track. The f8x chassis changed all that, in order to meet the ever increasing lap time targets bmw gave the car more front end grip and matched with the torque of the turbo down low it ruins the car on the street where you don’t always have a grippy dry surface and hot sticky tires. Bmw leaned hard on their traction control to keep the f80 safe on the road which is understandable but it kinda sanitizes the driving experience. That’s the real reason the e9x is preferable to the f8x because it prioritizes chassis stability and a linear powerband at the expense of laptime vs the f8x higher capability but less stable, less communication, more difficult to manage power.
E-9x all day. What a visceral driving experience. That S65 is a musical instrument. There’s a reason it won international engine of the year from 2008 to 2012. Great video spenc!
Just picked up a F80, had a E90 before for 5 years. Both are great cars. IMO, the E90 has controllable speed. I can put my foot down with no worries. F80 is a little different, I have to gradually put my foot down in order to control the power it puts out. Steering wheel does feel better on the E90, but now I don't have to worry about steering fluid leaking all over my engine during track days. One less maintenance item I have to worry about as well. Brakes are WAY MORE EXPENSIVE ON THE F80! 1k for a front set, versus 1k for a full set on the E90. Depending on where you live, oil changes are easier on the F80 cause I can buy it locally, 5w-30. With my E90 I always had to order a kit online and it costs more because it's 10w-60. It's all about preference. I'd be happy with both in my garage. I regret selling my E90, but it is what it is. If I can find it again I would definitely buy it back and keep both.
I have 2 e92 m3's and sold my F80 after 2 months of owning it. All of this info is true. The e9x power limits seem to be perfect unlike the F80 which is unpredictable. You not about to hit the same corners you did with the e92 at the same speed or with the same trust. I would rather spend 2500 on rod bearings then spend 4500 on the crankhub. TA you can do yourself it's nothing you not about to do the crankhub at home unless you got some hella tools and skills. Supercharge your e92 and you got the power you wanted. Better shape, better engine even with the RB problem, way more fun and playful. When that F80 showed up I was so happy but soon as I drove it I knew within 10 mins I got the wrong car. Now if the F80 was the same size inside and out with the same type of power it might be a killer but I guess you call that the M2 right. I wouldn't mind seeing a M2 with king S65 engine in it. I woukd also like to see a remake of the S65 with all features improved. How about a 5.4 liter S65 pushing 650hp 700 torque with no mods stock. What a dream
I worked at bmw and I gotta say the f8X was a lot more fun of a car to drive than the e9X cars, the torque comes on wayyyy sooner, the automatic rev matching on the f8X is so much fun, and over all I always had a bigger smile on my face when hopping into a f8X car over a e9X car.
New to the BMW world and just picked up a F82 Comp with suspension and power upgrades…. Thing is a monster. 6 speed manual canyon bomber. Let’s be honest… seems like you can’t go wrong either way.
Great video Spencer! I have a E90 330i LCI M-Sport, not an M3 but I have driven the E92 M3 as well as F80 and personally I prefer the E90 platform mainly for the steering feel. I was lucky enough to get my car with the hydraulic steering and not electronic steering as with other LCI's. an F80 I would buy just for the looks but for pure handling, sound and feel I would take the E92 any day.
The only pro the E90 has over the F80 is the sound that's it. Every other pro points to the F80, better fuel economy, way more power, low down torque, more reliable, better handling, better daily driver, more nimble, better tuning potential, better tech. The list goes on and on. E90 has way more problems to consider, rod bearings, throttle actuators, dated looking interior, and it chews through consumables. You will end up spending way more money to keep it on the road than the F80. I will say that the E90 has a more muscular look though. Plus you can take an F80 to the track and be confident that you will make it back home without any problems.
💀 E90 has way may pros then that over an F80, and it's the stuff that actually matter most to drivers. The e9x platform, feels much more connected to the driver, there's a whole lot more feel and the car responds to inputs very well. The engine in the e9x is superior, it's a very special engine, very linear delivery, revs out to 9k rpm, the fact you have to wring it out in every year to get power is engaging. Whereas the f80 is massive in comparison, the steering feels like rubish and is indirect, the power curve is best represented by a 4 year Olds drawing Etc. On a technical level, the f80 is better, but on an emotional level, or a driver's level, the E90 is much better. It feels more special. Thats why basically everyone in this video choose e9x over f80
The first time I heard a F8x I was like sounds like a rice mobile or a lawn mower. Once I fire up my E93 M3 6MT and you feel the S65, comes alive. My daily a 01 E39 540i 6MT sounds good the M62 TU V8. Hey it's a V8, rear wheel drive with a 6MT. But my E30 has the most fun factor... Cheers
Gotta agree. I sold my F80 M3 and am definitely keeping my E92 M3 which my wife also prefers. The F80 is like a video game with no feedback and no sole; vague and slow steering, worst of 10+ BMWs I have owned. Both had tunes. With Cat delete and tune the E92 M3 is much quicker.
As a F80 M3 6 M/T owner I 100% agree with you Spencer. Wish I was asked too haha. I have never owned the E90 M3 but I've driven it many times and I have had a E90 335i, now I have the (Verde Mantis Green) F80 6-speed manual. I always hated the F8x generation since it came out because it feels to digital and the sound was always crap, especially compared to the V10 M5 I used to have. I have to admit the F80 grew on me a little because of my Catless DPs and M-Perf exhaust and how easy you can throw this thing around to drift, but everyday I am thinking if I should just sell it and find an E90 M3 instead and keep that forever. It's such a hard decision to make since my F80 is like on out of 26 world wide in that color and it's like a race spec without leather seats etc. I might have to just add an E90 instead haha.
Idk if its just me but as you get older you start to care less about HP numbers and care more about how the car handles. I never understood when people are making 600wph on car that is never going to see that power to its full potential. I believe its best to mod a car to make it balanced and not over due it with HP mods. I have yet to drive an e9X or f8X but now this video has me really considering the E9X model. thanks for putting out this video.
In addition to numerous accolades during its production run, the e92 S65 motor won the International Engine of the Year for 5 consecutive years. Very impressive taking into consideration that it was in the same category as Porsche, Nissan, & McLaren. McLaren took the title back after the S65.
I never liked to looks of the E90. Than again the E92 is top three M-car ever made regarding looks. M635csi, E92 M3 and maybe E39 M5. The DCT in the F80 is miles better than the DCT in the E90/92. Also with the M-performance Akrapovic the F80 has a fantastic sound. Another thing, how can anybody say the F80 feels heavier than the E90/92???? The F80 feels lightyears lighter than the E92. I owned both for several years and the E92 was very nose heavy in compared to the F80. Which one I would choose again, don't know. Liked both. On a circuit the E92 has zero chance against F80, stock to stock.
The E9x is the last modern BMW before all the new tech BMWs, it's not as outdated as the E36, E30. The only reason I wouldn't touch a E9x M3 because of the rod bearing problems. You're looking at a $25k problem.
The sound on my F82 doesn't really bother me, I think it actually sounds really aggressive. True there's not the same music coming out of the tailpipes as that glorious S65, but e92 is soooo muted from the factory. The F82 feels lighter than my e92 but where it gets me is the size and unpredictability at the limit especially with almost no steering feel, you get most of the feedback from the chassis. Solution is to use the e92 mostly as a weekend/track car and have the F8x as a daily driver.
I own an E92 M3 myself and previously had various variants of the N54 platform (stock and all the way to 450hp) - 135i, 335i 6spd, 335i 7 speed dct and then I drove a friend's F82 M4 and I felt that the car resembled very closely to the E92 335i. I feel that the F82 M4 was like a very much improved version of the E92 335i, but I wasn't connected to the car as it was all just about power and straight line performance. While my current E92 M3 makes lesser horsepower, it makes me very confident when driving it because of the car's power as it does it in a very linear manner unlike the N54/S55 which is very abrupt. If i do sell my E92 M3, I am very certain that I will buy one again. The sound, power delivery, handling (driver's feedback) and subtle looks are the winning factors over the F80 M3/F82 M4.
I do 100% agree, Had F82 M4 - 6spd - I could not grip!!! first and second gear was useless :) made it less enjoyable ! :-/ of course maybe if I slap slicks on it but it would suck in rain. I agree about the sound as well - that's why I only did midpipe and downpipe. and left oem catback. Sound was more deep. less raspy! . now I'm thinking about E92 :-) That video was right on point, thanks for sharing guys, Spencer :)
Super neat to hear these! Would love to hear you reflect on your good experiences with e9x compared to your subaru and e30, i loved my subaru even when it was broken but the maintenance is absolutely overwhelming if you want it to be fast
Too many people love to express their opinion as though it's fact. Especially with the M3. The car has adapted to suit it's buyers in every inception. The E9x was something special, essentially harkening back to the GTR race car with the V8, from the previous generation that was banned from racing. The F80 was better than the E9x on paper, and track, in every way. The idea of a car feeling like it has no soul, is completely subjective to the drivers ideas and perceptions. That perception can also be affected by what the car is being used for. I've heard dozens of people, that hated on the E9x M3 that same way as the F80 until they sat in the car with a pro, and had it brought to it's limits. People even thought it sounded muted, comparing it to mustangs and Mercedes. Really? The F80 limits are at an even higher bar, while it's lower end, was made to be more useable. I'm nostalgic about the E9x and E46 M3 because those were the cars I drooled over when I was in school. But I honestly feel, talking real world and how things work, every M3 has been a perfectly reasonable upgrade from the previous version. Ultimately these cars will always move towards what the market and safety laws demand. It's unfortunate. But still, i would take 2 of every generation... Leave one stock and pristine, and go full tilt modded on the second. Sadly I don't live in that world. The steering is subject to the safety and technology that the manufacturers are forced to put in their new cars. Stupid lane keep assist 💔 Maybe somebody can find out how to map the Supra steering program, into the BMWs. 🤔 It's supposedly better. Bottom line for me is, I think most of the jaded TH-cam reviewers need to sit back and take a look at what they feel versus the facts, and keep that to themselves, instead of flaming a car, because they can't get past their jaded expectations. It's not a homologation vehicle anymore. Love your videos Spencer. Keep up the hard work. Don't take this as an attack towards you. 👍😎👍 To each their own, that's why the car community is interesting.
After the E36 no bmw's caught my attention until the 1st time I saw a YAS M3 at an airport in '15. My jaw dropped and who knew, now I own a mineral white f82. 🥰 and definitely enjoy the sound. To each his own I guess 🤷
I have an F80 Comp, my first BMW, and my first M3. I've always been a HUGE fan of the E36, still my favorite of all time but when i decided to part ways with my 06' STi(i still miss it...) I opted to go for an M and I wanted something modern. I figure newer equates to better because of technology, R&D, creature comforts, etc. So I got my F80 and I absolutely love it! I can't knock the E9x because I've never owned/ driven one so I have no input to give on it. I appreciate the V8, I've heard them and they sound very nice but I also love the sound of my F80, and it's turbo(i love turbo cars 🤷🏽♂️). I personally feel that everytime i drive my F80 it's an experience. A literally fun drive at 30, 60, 80 or 140 MPH. Just enjoyable, to me anyways. Anyhow, F80 for me all the way. No disrespect to E9x owners, ultimately it comes to preference. They are both great machines in my opinion.
@@BAYAREAMX I just bought mines 2017 comp pack and the way it shifts is not as exciting how I imagine it would Be, like I test drove an f10 m5 and I feel in love now the way that car shifts i feel everything, the only reason I didn’t go with the m5 is because of how bad the engines are
Just to clarify things. The E9X (M and Non M) DCT, M5/M6 DCT, M3/M4 (F8X) shares the exact same DCT. Only difference is variance of bell housing, software, and gearing ratio. Unfortunately the F8X software has the worst 1st gear out of all of them. Starting off from a stop, the vehicle jumps forward. Then with your body constantly shifting back and forward, you continue to "jolt". This is what I meant, by they have the worst DCT transmission out of all of them. Oh this applies to the manual trans too, not sure why they all do this
@@TruongMikeMai XHP software will help. I was reason on the forums of people talking about how to get F10/F13 software on the F8X DCT since the software on those DCT’s is much better and not as jerky.
I like how people say this like the F80 M has a slower ring time cause it's got marshmallow suspension. Do you know what E46 M owners say when they hear E9x M owners talk about handling? lol
@@Flight6LBJ I think 🤔 maybe you missed his point a little buddy. No disrespect AT ALL.. I rather like the f80 m3 alot actually. I think comparing the e90 m3 to the f80 isn't a fair shake. They aren't even in the same category. Take Forza as an example.. when you pick a class A car you rate it against other class A cars. Some cars in that category are better than others and some not. If The f80 is in the S class ( in forza ) it is now subject to be comparable to other S class cars such as the 911rs etc which sound 10x better and do everything better. So in the scenario the e92m3 would be at the top of the A class and compared to other comparable cars vs the f80 somewhere in the middle..and definitely below the 911 in everyway. I bring the 911 in the mix in a effort to parallel the unfair comparison
@@BimmerDude the entire video is about F8x vs E9x so I’m not sure what you are talking about. My point is this: not only does the thrill of straight line speed NOT wear off, but even IF it did, the F8x STILL handles better anyways.
Looks wise ..the F8x is a legend. The E92 is too heavy and no torque...which is unacceptable. You can however pulverise the E9x..that S65 is soul. Both are great..but the F8x with akro exhaust..its not close. Also..the crankhub is not an issue. Its 5-10x less of an issue than the rod bearing issue on the s65..
Good video! Some of the submissions are questionable especially when the second e90 gentlemen stated the f80 was “not much heavier” than the e90 (maybe like 3-400 lbs lighter) but overall some of the insight was awesome. Seems that if you’re performance oriented and looking for modern amenities inside of an absolute weapon, the F8X is a no brainer. Comparatively the more analog e90 with its awesome exhaust note is for someone who wants to enjoy the charmful late 2000s BMW craftsmanship on the weekend.
F80 ZCP owner. Was a dream car of mine for years and love most things about this car, comp pack exhaust definitely is an improvement over the base model. I can definitely agree with is there is way too much power for the chassis. Mine is stock and it loves to fishtail in 1st and 2nd if you give it too much. The DCT is great in higher gears but 1st is almost undriveable. Besides those flaws, I personally think it is the best looking M3, E9X coming at a close second. Have owned mine for 2 years and I never get tired of admiring the F8X chassis, it is sublime. For E9X, I have been passenger in a mate's with the works done on it. What an animal is all I can say. I have pondered picking up an E92 M3 for a while just for that V8, but now hearing the feedback on the responsiveness of the E9X gives me much more reason to look further.
I've got both but tbh the F82 is a daily driver in my opinion. The E92 is more fun to rip around town. My F82 is DCT and E92 is manual which may factor into my opinion. I use the F82 for road trips and E92 as a "drifter".
I had a leased E92 M3 and when the car was due back the F80/2 were at dealerships. I am ok with a turbo engine but not ok with the way that thing sounded. I feel the F80/2 is actually one of the worse sounding performance engines I have ever heard. I mean that in a serious way and not sarcastic at all. You have to not care about sound or be a fanboy to accept it. The new G80 generation seems to have improved the sound a lot.
F80 is really really nice car ..but e92 is the last non turbo m3 and the only v8 m3 so far! and i just think e92 and e46 is the real m3 out there .my experience on my e92 is always excitement everytime i start the car its just i know it made for me every turn and every shift on my DCT and everytime im using my M mode gosshhh the connection between me and my e92 is just great no bmw will beat the sound! u guys know what im talkin about! but at end of the day they are both great M cars e92 and F80s gotta love them both!
Respectfully the f80 is the better all around car the only thing the E9x offers is the sound like everyone says and the driving experience other than that the e9x can’t compare to the f80 i’m sorry lol.
Not so much of a comparison video between the F8x and E9x, but a make me feel better about myself video because I gave up on the F8x, and while we're at it let's trash the F8x. An address regarding things you hate about the F8x.... The sound: Oh my gosh dude! Its not a V8! Yes! A V8 is going to sound better, but get some equal length mid pipes or even a single mid pipe and it sounds way better. It's too fast! Breaks traction: Seriously? If it's too fast, get Bootmod3 or MHD and use the "Boost by Gear Reduction" function to turn it down to your liking. You could also upgrade the turbos and move the torque curve up so it doesn't come in as early as the stock turbos. I would think that is a good thing for a sports car to have plenty of power. More power is what most car enthusiasts are chasing when their car gets a little mundane. I would think that would be a major plus for the F8x as it is fast out of the box, the S55 is a strong engine with a closed deck design with forged internals, and the platform has great support to be modified as far as you want to go (e.g., stage 1&2 maps, flex fuel maps, full E85 maps, meth injection, port injection, rolling antilag features, upgraded hybrid turbos, upgraded twin turbos, and single turbo kits). What can you do with a N/A V8? Maybe a flash tune that gets you minimal gains or maybe a stroker kit? Otherwise, you need to go supercharger. I didn't find myself looking back the F80 as much: You bought the wrong color! Basic white is not an exciting color. ;) The F8x steering is not as good as E9x: Probably right. An electric rack will likely have less feel or communication than a hydraulic one. I'm not sure its as bad as you say it is though. There are plenty of people tracking F8x's. The F8x has no soul: Dang dude. That is pretty harsh Spencer. Clearly you didn't bond with your F80, and that is shame, but to label the whole platform to be soulless is a bit over the top. When considering the E9x and F8x platforms, it is easy to see why they may be polarizing between enthusiasts. They share their heritage and badging, but their designs go in two different directions. I can see why both are loved by their owners and appreciate their differences with out trashing one over the other.
It's the sound for me. I fuckin LOVE the look of the F82, but the E9x holds a very special place in my heart. If BMW put the hydraulic steering feel and S65 engine in the F80/82 - NA as well - it'd be a wrap. Hardly anyone would go for the E9x. I also love the fact that you HAVE to really rev out the S65 to get full power out of the E9x. I've been in the market for either the F82 or E9x, and I've fully decided to go with the latter in 6spd.
Love both cars. Own a e46 M3 Competition, e93 M3, frozen white e92 Competition, and have almost bought a f80 on several occasions. The f80 is amazing but I can’t get over the steering. I actually love how it sounds with equal mid pipes and reminds me of my e46 M3. The steering in the f80 has nearly put me in a ditch, it is not very predictable and doesn’t allow you to truly feel what the car is doing. The e9x/e46 M3’s are slower but the way they handle is perfection to me. When I am ready for a new daily I will for sure get an f80 though. I just couldn’t justify getting an f80 as a weekend car. As a daily they are perfect.
I leased an F series 340 and G series M340 when I worked for bmw and they were both quick. It’s weird I never even drove an e90 3 series car when I purchased my e92 M3. I don’t miss either of the other cars. This just drives and handles so much better IMO. But….great video!!
"Too Much Power" is ridiculous. It doesn't matter if the car has 1200hp, unless it is tuned horribly you choose how much power to use. They're both amazing & a lot of e90 and f80 owners need to swap cars and speak from experience, not other people's opinions
Owned both, E9X feels old school, raw and wins in driving feel. F8X is loaded with tech, modern body style, mega wide, more comfortable and accelerates significantly faster. If you have to pick 1 car for daily, it has to be the F8X. 2 cars? F8X DCT daily and E9X 6MT weekends.
I agree on the steering. It turns well, but communicates poorly. I feel like the steering is heavy for no particular reason with no feedback and I'm coming from a manual rack MR2. I'll have to play with the settings a bit more. The power is pretty ridiculous stock and I've been driving a supercharged ND MX5 for the past 8 months, but it's quickly doing things and I get a little kick back in the seat and hear some noises way in the back somewhere. It's undeniably capable and fantastic as a tool, but it just feels like all the critique aimed at the GT-R from around 2009-2015 is all applicable to it. I'm going to do some diff mounts and if that doesn't make it sporty or engaging then I'll probably ship it off. It reminds me of riding in a pre-2015 Mustang. Unfortunately, it just kind of fell in my lap for a great deal and needs some work that I can sort out. I still want to try an e89, but am also open to a 4-cylinder. The only BMW I ever really wanted was an e30 318is. To me handling and the right amount and kind of power are important. It's a shame the industry became so obsessed with appeasing the nerds with the brochure racing. I will say that I'm happy to have experienced one BMW product even if it's my last. HUD will probably be my most missed feature. e89 or RX8 Will most likely be the next in sequence. I don't really want to waste our last decade with cars that don't provide a feeling I enjoy.
I’ve had both i Would have kept the f80 over the e92 and I used to love the e92 but it’s hard work . it’s sort of inbetween of being there but not fully there . I live in the U.K. I’ve kept my e46 m3 in the end . I call it the sweet spot where Its a balance of nice ingredients but we are blessed to have been offered different versions of the m3 , a turbo one a v8 one an old school n/a ones etc . they are all showcasing different variations driving styles and markets . you can’t have it all one.
If you’re new to either car or trying to make a decision-to save time-start with the steering. If you can live with the electric steering of the F80, you can confidently buy one. I find the hydraulic / power steering on the E92 to be a little vague. So anything, like the F80, with less feedback, I can’t accept. I’m also interested in resale value. I don’t think that the F80 will be a collector’s item like the E92.
Oh and also the f8X chassis is lighter than the e9X chassis lol so what more can you ask for, only thing the e9X has over it is the sound that v8 sounds sick not gonna lie
as someone whose owned a f82 m4 and driven my friends e92 m3, the f8x's to me is a way better daily, the e92's low end torque seems way too low so I ended up selling my f82 m4 and got a gt350 which to me felt even more connected then the e92 and still pretty good low end torque. Currently thinking of getting an f80 m3 to get something 4 door to more easily daily as a second vehicle since it seems way more reliable than the e92 since my friend with the e92 has been having a lot fo different oil issues
F80 seems like a solid daily but the E9X is the soulful weekend ripper.
This right here
Well said!
This👆🏼
They did go up in value tbh they have a couple of 2011 bmw m3 with 90k plus miles for 30k
I agree
I feel like with every post, the average price of the e9x m3 goes up by like $500 lol
Facts! 😂😂
Ahahahah
He’s tryin ;)
It’s so sad
I don’t own either one but the e9x has always had a special place in my heart. I remember the day it came out when I was in college watching Top Gear - I’ve lusted after it for many years. I regret not taking a chance on the e9x due to fear of engine failures (rod bearings mainly) - now I realize the problems are less of an issue if the car has preventative maintenance done. Also the design of the e9x generation is not over-styled, smaller size, simple angel eye lights… IMO for those reasons it has a sleek clean design, which BMW as a brand will never have again.
E9x owners. “Well if you don’t mind the rod bearings, throttle actuators and no torque it’s a perfect car”
Yep that’s us! 😂
Whos actually had rod bearing failure? thats the real question. I know many people with over 100k on OG bearings no issues.. just sounds like some people dont do oil changes every year
@@Madddoggydog we can go back and forth about the number of reported or unreported cases but the reality is the rod bearing issue exists. Does it exist on the F8x? No it doesnt
@@Madddoggydog From what I’ve heard, it’s a hit or miss with the OG rod bearings going past 30k miles.. I had mine until about 42k and decided to upgrade to the VAC coated rod bearings and high performance main bearings. They have about 10k miles on them.
@@andrewp4220 you’re right about that.
Seriously Spencer, you bitched about the crank hub, yet didn't bitch about the E9X rod bearings? You bitched about the car being a good A - B but forgot to mention that any E9X takes roughly 15 minutes to come up to temp so if you want to wind it out , it takes an inordinate amount of time before it's fully warmed up and ready to go. Not even going to go about the throttle actuators which when they fail car goes in limp mode (doesnt grenade the car but does require a tow). The DCT in the F8X is fine. First gear honestly is just there to get you going, what else do you need first gear for? Got six other gears to drive in. As for torque its usable when dailying the car. The reason I sold the E9X is because of the lack of torque. It's special on the right road but feels like a 328i in all other scenarios. You have to really wind it up to get power. Sound I'll give you but sound is subjective. The S65 is a great sounding car (not frim factory as its quiet af). The people complained about the S54 in the e46 M3 being raspy as well. You simply can't please everyone. Like legit I'm glad you finally figured out you want another E9x car (if it's so great, I'm surprised it took you so many to figure out it's the right car for you) but stop bashing the F8X platform. I find it hilarious you don't go after the G8X.
The TLDR version of this comment is this. The M3 people are the same as the Porsche people. They expect each generation to be the same as the old one but yet somehow not. They're two different cars and evoluations of the gen that preceded it. You have any bitching to do go after Mercedes for sticking a 4 cyl in the new c63 in a year or so. Just remember BMW was/is the last to still have DCTs in their cars. Now the old DCT cars out there are 911s, R8s and things north of six figures. So for what it's worth the F8X chassis still delivers more than its competition and wipes the floor on track with the E9X (speed doesn't lie).
Amen brotha.
Yup, not a Honda, definitely not a kia, A BMW Brother. E90x the ultimate driving machine. Naturally aspirated motor, BMW Brothers all over the world..!
F80 most aggressive and capable sedan.
F8x “too fast”
E9x “very very slow”
What do we want!! The E9x is definitely a fast car, if you’re saying its “slow” then that’s a very relative statement.
Good video though 👍
lol people never know what they want. 400hp is slow in 2021 and 425-450hp is too fast?! i mean i get what they are saying but still we can never be 100 percent happy with a car because it'll be boring otherwise. e.g. the G80 M3/M4 damn near perfect in every way except the weight and now its too boring for us too safe
Its compounded for me since I live in Colorado. The E90 which I would prefer all things being equal will be down %18 on power and given low mid-range torque that will be noticeable. This makes the power difference compared to the F80 even more drastic. I don't love the way the F80 puts down power however. Which I is why I am still stuck on keeping my E60 535i M-sport 6-speed manual with a tune. I can't figure out what my next BMW should be. (I have some other sports cars including a 997.2 C4S which also suffers from power loss, but I still love the way it drives. But do I want two cars down on power, or should I keep one turbocharged? Though I also have a P90D w/ Ludicrous+ for an extreme acceleration fix).
@@ourfutureisdark It's not the HP, its the ft-lb. The torque. The E92 can have 450 and the torque can still be where it's at and it will be a little faster, but still at its quickness from 0-60. People think HP matters but it's actually the torque. HP sells cars but torque wins races.
there is nothing TOO FAST. I had a 2016 F80 Competition and it droves fantastic. Definitely not even close to being too fast. I loved my E92 too. Better was engine, steering and looks.
@@alangil40 - same boat as you, what's next after an M car, seems like Porsche would be the way to go if you do some track and still enjoy it on the street, short of an exotic.
As someone who’s owned all model of M3s; e9X chassis was the heaviest feeling one and is the heaviest one! Not sure why he says f80 is heavier…
Yep
I feel like he was referring more to the feeling of size. I will admit it does SEEM like the f80 would be the heavier car
It’s funny because the e9X chassis was my least favorite of the lot but now I appreciate them more and more for just being a fun, high revving, NA, M car! I also miss the premium sound on my e92!! Better stock stereo system than in the f80
@@jason.mart3 Dude, you mentioned the one thing no one else catches… the sound system in the E90 is so damn good. The F80 is fine and I don’t have any complaints but it has nothing on the E90. Anyone who doesn’t know about this detail is lying if they claim they owned both platforms. With that aside, the E90 is obviously heavier to me. I think all the bracing and reinforcement used for the F80 gives it the impression of being heavier; plus it is wider for sure but certainly not heavier. Honestly, my only knock on the E90 is that it carries so much weight. Guess what else weighs the same as the E9X… the G8X. Haha. Love both cars though - own a E90 M3 DCT and a F82 6MT ZCP
Might be the hydraulic steering in the E9X cars, feels pretty heavy at lower speeds
this is funny because the owner of precision now own a f82 LOL
is this true?!
Weird take from Mike Mai. For me, being an F80 M3 CS owner, to hear the F8x DCT as being referred to as "ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE", is a bit unexpected. Firstly, who is in 1st gear on track ever? Secondly, 1st gear is what it is... 1st gear lol. I mean, what is there to talk about it's 1st freaking gear.
My CS is a blast to drive, handling is extremely competent. It's not snappy at all. 45k miles and I have no idea what Mike Mai is talking about about either way, be it handling, or sound (largely subjective, obvi). Maybe Mike Mai doesn't even know what he's talking about.
I guess I will just have to drive an E9x DCT to see giw dreamy they are? I'm totally lost.
I really like the new update and modern look of the f80 but the E90 is just a timeless masterpiece
Just got an e92 comp. The sound itself is enough for me to opt for it rather than the newer ones and it truly is a last of a kind
Being a F8x owner and it being my first Ⓜ️ car I'd have to agree with the video submissions. I love my F80 and some of the downfalls are definitely the way it sounds. But in my opinion the equal length midpipe does do some justice on making it respectable. If compared to the E9x platform, it doesn't stand a chance. The N/A V8 is just a symphony compared the F8x. Eventually, I want to add a E9x M3 to the garage along with My F80.
Love to see this. I just subscribed 🙌
lol...i was asking my buddy why there are so many crashed G80 M3's already.
Im not that into BMW but I love the aggressive front of the F80.
The ability to make a ridiculous amount of supercar-beating power and the aggressive DCT is what drew me to the F80/F82 in the first place, it gives the car the ability to be tame yet an animal when it needs to be
Great video bro! This is very helpful to a lotta people. I'm also going with the E92. Once you drive that car, you fall in love with it immediately. The steering is out of this world. That slick and timeless body design by BMW is always attracting attention to you whenever you're in public. I literally get people walking up to me all the time to tell me that my car is amazing. And it's only stock, no mods at all. It makes you feel special. And now I can't be without it. E92 is a rare car, it's appearance always makes a crazy introduction. I'll never ever get rid of mine. That's my Soulmate ❤️
To each it’s own, I really like your point of view and where your coming from, for me personally the F80 is everything I could ask for, every time I drive the car, it feels like the first time I’ve driven it, just absolutely in love and can’t imagine of selling it. Yes the exhaust definitely is the biggest buzz kill but surprisingly, I don’t really care that much about it, I got BM3 on my car and have some light burbles on it, and I am totally happy with it, at the end of the day, I don’t see how you can go wrong with either car lol
It's funny how we all have a reason to validate our definition of good, fast and "better". Coming from an E46 M3, I was never really drawn to the E9X M chassis. I think it's because it's that generation of M cars that gained the most weight and tech that said goodbye to that analog world. Funny how most E9x M owners I knew wanted to added an E46M in their stable. I love the sound of the S65, but when you go to events, meets and more importantly at the track, I hate how, that as much as it sounds good, I wish it matched the power it made. I've heard it all it back in the day, E9x M owners saying, "don't compare our intelligent V8 to a 5.0 Mustang." "Our BMW V8 went to college". "But but but, the power is just right for the chassis." It's like the hype I never understood for the E30 M. "it's so balanced!" "it was quick for it's time!". Again, it's all just personal preference right? Some of it is true, some of it is denial of accepting technology is a bitch and we can't accept an M2 Comp / CS would lap around most previous M cars. The F80 M isn't perfect, but as myopic as this sounds, i love how BMW fixed the problem of a lack of real power from all other generations WHILE having new safety features and tech. I like the F80 M cause I can imagine how nice it must be to have an M car that I don't have to keep saying, "it's because i love how my car sounds and feels" when I lose or prefer not to race. "I know it's slow, but I love how it sounds and that steering!" which is so laughable cause people say that like the E46 M doesn't exist. Long story short, i love and prefer the F80 M cause as much it lost the beautiful sounding V8, i wouldn't be ashamed and making personal excuses when it's time to send it.
Just needs tractive or mcs coilovers, PS4's, lightweight wheels, and AA EL midpipe and you are set with reliability.
So Mike Mai, the guy with TT R8 thinks the F80 M3 has "too much power" LOL
He said for the track.
My S55 sounds pretty damn good with that equal length mid pipe 🔥. Both amazing platforms though! To each their own 🤝
100%!
You easily have the best sounding s55, sound of angels
@@ibefast my guyyyy💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽
@@SpencerBerke
Spencer, such a great compilation of car enthusiasts.
To hear from Mike who has worked on hundreds of both cars, this speaks volume.
I watched your videos of you driving from California to Miami and back.
Thanks for sharing. Amazing content.
Thanks so much for the support!
I think I'm going to go drive my E92 now. As you said every time you drive it, it is an experience. It's simple, I have a 6spd, non-nav.on H&R Race coil-overs...etc. It just feels so good to drive. Even Mustang guys give me thumbs up!
F80 owner, and I love both platforms. My ideal garage would be an f80 for daily and e92 for the weekend.
I want to see the M2Comp come into this discussion.. aside from the s55 sound obviously..
It’s closer to what an m3 is supposed to be..
I always wonder why people would pick an F82 over an F87.
I discuss the topic with a lot car guys . And realized most car enthusiast will choose E9x over F80. Because we focus on the feeling more than speed . N/A V8 just feels right . More and more Ppl will know how special the E9x are .
I’ve owned a lot of M cars from the e36 onwards. Here is the problem with the f8x, it’s the first bmw M car with a true oversteer handling balance. Many enthusiasts will think this is a good thing because understeer=bad but it’s not really the case.
The older M cars (e36, e46, e9x) when pushed will default to understeer and only oversteer when really provoked. They will happily oversteer but it’s only when the driver wants them to, not when you’re not expecting it. The chassis feels stable and predictable in any scenario road or track.
The f8x chassis changed all that, in order to meet the ever increasing lap time targets bmw gave the car more front end grip and matched with the torque of the turbo down low it ruins the car on the street where you don’t always have a grippy dry surface and hot sticky tires. Bmw leaned hard on their traction control to keep the f80 safe on the road which is understandable but it kinda sanitizes the driving experience.
That’s the real reason the e9x is preferable to the f8x because it prioritizes chassis stability and a linear powerband at the expense of laptime vs the f8x higher capability but less stable, less communication, more difficult to manage power.
E-9x all day. What a visceral driving experience. That S65 is a musical instrument. There’s a reason it won international engine of the year from 2008 to 2012. Great video spenc!
So in summary, just keep my E93! Cheers!
Just picked up a F80, had a E90 before for 5 years. Both are great cars. IMO, the E90 has controllable speed. I can put my foot down with no worries. F80 is a little different, I have to gradually put my foot down in order to control the power it puts out.
Steering wheel does feel better on the E90, but now I don't have to worry about steering fluid leaking all over my engine during track days. One less maintenance item I have to worry about as well.
Brakes are WAY MORE EXPENSIVE ON THE F80! 1k for a front set, versus 1k for a full set on the E90.
Depending on where you live, oil changes are easier on the F80 cause I can buy it locally, 5w-30. With my E90 I always had to order a kit online and it costs more because it's 10w-60.
It's all about preference. I'd be happy with both in my garage. I regret selling my E90, but it is what it is. If I can find it again I would definitely buy it back and keep both.
I took my E90 M3 on the track, it was no slower than the F8X's on the straights
I have 2 e92 m3's and sold my F80 after 2 months of owning it. All of this info is true. The e9x power limits seem to be perfect unlike the F80 which is unpredictable. You not about to hit the same corners you did with the e92 at the same speed or with the same trust. I would rather spend 2500 on rod bearings then spend 4500 on the crankhub. TA you can do yourself it's nothing you not about to do the crankhub at home unless you got some hella tools and skills. Supercharge your e92 and you got the power you wanted. Better shape, better engine even with the RB problem, way more fun and playful. When that F80 showed up I was so happy but soon as I drove it I knew within 10 mins I got the wrong car. Now if the F80 was the same size inside and out with the same type of power it might be a killer but I guess you call that the M2 right. I wouldn't mind seeing a M2 with king S65 engine in it. I woukd also like to see a remake of the S65 with all features improved. How about a 5.4 liter S65 pushing 650hp 700 torque with no mods stock. What a dream
I worked at bmw and I gotta say the f8X was a lot more fun of a car to drive than the e9X cars, the torque comes on wayyyy sooner, the automatic rev matching on the f8X is so much fun, and over all I always had a bigger smile on my face when hopping into a f8X car over a e9X car.
Why ask an owner who has never had the e9x m3? What basis do they have for any comparison? Lol. That was a fail
cuz they obviously had the money to buy either option, but they made their decision to go with the f80.
@@slickest123452 most of the time people go for the new variant for warranty reasons or just to have the newest car. Still doesn’t mean it is better.
Team E9X baby! I still miss my E46 M3 tho lol
I miss my E46 Cabrio too a great car with soul just like my E93.
@@saviola01 yes for sure so fun to drive!
New to the BMW world and just picked up a F82 Comp with suspension and power upgrades…. Thing is a monster. 6 speed manual canyon bomber. Let’s be honest… seems like you can’t go wrong either way.
Great video Spencer! I have a E90 330i LCI M-Sport, not an M3 but I have driven the E92 M3 as well as F80 and personally I prefer the E90 platform mainly for the steering feel. I was lucky enough to get my car with the hydraulic steering and not electronic steering as with other LCI's. an F80 I would buy just for the looks but for pure handling, sound and feel I would take the E92 any day.
E90x all the way! Can't beat the sound! Respect to F80 crowd as well
It’s really simple if you wanna make big power the f80 is the way to go but if your tracking a e9x is the way to go
The only pro the E90 has over the F80 is the sound that's it. Every other pro points to the F80, better fuel economy, way more power, low down torque, more reliable, better handling, better daily driver, more nimble, better tuning potential, better tech. The list goes on and on. E90 has way more problems to consider, rod bearings, throttle actuators, dated looking interior, and it chews through consumables. You will end up spending way more money to keep it on the road than the F80.
I will say that the E90 has a more muscular look though.
Plus you can take an F80 to the track and be confident that you will make it back home without any problems.
💀 E90 has way may pros then that over an F80, and it's the stuff that actually matter most to drivers.
The e9x platform, feels much more connected to the driver, there's a whole lot more feel and the car responds to inputs very well. The engine in the e9x is superior, it's a very special engine, very linear delivery, revs out to 9k rpm, the fact you have to wring it out in every year to get power is engaging.
Whereas the f80 is massive in comparison, the steering feels like rubish and is indirect, the power curve is best represented by a 4 year Olds drawing Etc.
On a technical level, the f80 is better, but on an emotional level, or a driver's level, the E90 is much better. It feels more special.
Thats why basically everyone in this video choose e9x over f80
The first time I heard a F8x I was like sounds like a rice mobile or a lawn mower. Once I fire up my E93 M3 6MT and you feel the S65, comes alive. My daily a 01 E39 540i 6MT sounds good the M62 TU V8. Hey it's a V8, rear wheel drive with a 6MT. But my E30 has the most fun factor... Cheers
Gotta agree. I sold my F80 M3 and am definitely keeping my E92 M3 which my wife also prefers. The F80 is like a video game with no feedback and no sole; vague and slow steering, worst of 10+ BMWs I have owned. Both had tunes. With Cat delete and tune the E92 M3 is much quicker.
As a F80 M3 6 M/T owner I 100% agree with you Spencer. Wish I was asked too haha. I have never owned the E90 M3 but I've driven it many times and I have had a E90 335i, now I have the (Verde Mantis Green) F80 6-speed manual. I always hated the F8x generation since it came out because it feels to digital and the sound was always crap, especially compared to the V10 M5 I used to have. I have to admit the F80 grew on me a little because of my Catless DPs and M-Perf exhaust and how easy you can throw this thing around to drift, but everyday I am thinking if I should just sell it and find an E90 M3 instead and keep that forever. It's such a hard decision to make since my F80 is like on out of 26 world wide in that color and it's like a race spec without leather seats etc. I might have to just add an E90 instead haha.
You didnt get ask get over it oviously no one cared what you thought thats why “u didnt get asked “
@@kinginmortal5720 lol we got us a fucking rocket scientist here.
@@kinginmortal5720 what a dumb comment.... smh.
Bruh my g8x puts the power down literally too well. The Asian dude is full of it.
I’ve had both and love both, true the V8 sounds super nice, but I’m older and don’t track or go to meets so F82 it is 👌🏽👍🏽
Idk if its just me but as you get older you start to care less about HP numbers and care more about how the car handles. I never understood when people are making 600wph on car that is never going to see that power to its full potential. I believe its best to mod a car to make it balanced and not over due it with HP mods. I have yet to drive an e9X or f8X but now this video has me really considering the E9X model. thanks for putting out this video.
idk man 300 hp starts to get scary
For the sound just buy the AA equal length midpipe.... sjeezz
it's worth noting that the equal length midpipe is relatively new whereas the F80 has been around for nearly 8 years at this point
In addition to numerous accolades during its production run, the e92 S65 motor won the International Engine of the Year for 5 consecutive years. Very impressive taking into consideration that it was in the same category as Porsche, Nissan, & McLaren.
McLaren took the title back after the S65.
I never liked to looks of the E90. Than again the E92 is top three M-car ever made regarding looks. M635csi, E92 M3 and maybe E39 M5.
The DCT in the F80 is miles better than the DCT in the E90/92. Also with the M-performance Akrapovic the F80 has a fantastic sound.
Another thing, how can anybody say the F80 feels heavier than the E90/92???? The F80 feels lightyears lighter than the E92. I owned both for several years and the E92 was very nose heavy in compared to the F80.
Which one I would choose again, don't know. Liked both. On a circuit the E92 has zero chance against F80, stock to stock.
E93 for Me! Great perspectives, all are appreciated. Kudos.😊
The E9x is the last modern BMW before all the new tech BMWs, it's not as outdated as the E36, E30. The only reason I wouldn't touch a E9x M3 because of the rod bearing problems. You're looking at a $25k problem.
the one and only answer is e46 >
The sound on my F82 doesn't really bother me, I think it actually sounds really aggressive. True there's not the same music coming out of the tailpipes as that glorious S65, but e92 is soooo muted from the factory. The F82 feels lighter than my e92 but where it gets me is the size and unpredictability at the limit especially with almost no steering feel, you get most of the feedback from the chassis. Solution is to use the e92 mostly as a weekend/track car and have the F8x as a daily driver.
Love the video and listening to everyone's experiences and feedback. Team F80. Hard to replace the look of a Yas M3 #biased
100%! F8X is still a great car, but not for certain people.
Yas, 6 speed, carbon roof, cloth. Literally the apex of a fun sedan
I own an E92 M3 myself and previously had various variants of the N54 platform (stock and all the way to 450hp) - 135i, 335i 6spd, 335i 7 speed dct and then I drove a friend's F82 M4 and I felt that the car resembled very closely to the E92 335i. I feel that the F82 M4 was like a very much improved version of the E92 335i, but I wasn't connected to the car as it was all just about power and straight line performance. While my current E92 M3 makes lesser horsepower, it makes me very confident when driving it because of the car's power as it does it in a very linear manner unlike the N54/S55 which is very abrupt. If i do sell my E92 M3, I am very certain that I will buy one again. The sound, power delivery, handling (driver's feedback) and subtle looks are the winning factors over the F80 M3/F82 M4.
I do 100% agree, Had F82 M4 - 6spd - I could not grip!!! first and second gear was useless :) made it less enjoyable ! :-/ of course maybe if I slap slicks on it but it would suck in rain. I agree about the sound as well - that's why I only did midpipe and downpipe. and left oem catback. Sound was more deep. less raspy! .
now I'm thinking about E92 :-) That video was right on point, thanks for sharing guys, Spencer :)
Super neat to hear these! Would love to hear you reflect on your good experiences with e9x compared to your subaru and e30, i loved my subaru even when it was broken but the maintenance is absolutely overwhelming if you want it to be fast
Too many people love to express their opinion as though it's fact.
Especially with the M3.
The car has adapted to suit it's buyers in every inception. The E9x was something special, essentially harkening back to the GTR race car with the V8, from the previous generation that was banned from racing.
The F80 was better than the E9x on paper, and track, in every way. The idea of a car feeling like it has no soul, is completely subjective to the drivers ideas and perceptions. That perception can also be affected by what the car is being used for. I've heard dozens of people, that hated on the E9x M3 that same way as the F80 until they sat in the car with a pro, and had it brought to it's limits. People even thought it sounded muted, comparing it to mustangs and Mercedes. Really?
The F80 limits are at an even higher bar, while it's lower end, was made to be more useable. I'm nostalgic about the E9x and E46 M3 because those were the cars I drooled over when I was in school. But I honestly feel, talking real world and how things work, every M3 has been a perfectly reasonable upgrade from the previous version. Ultimately these cars will always move towards what the market and safety laws demand. It's unfortunate. But still, i would take 2 of every generation... Leave one stock and pristine, and go full tilt modded on the second. Sadly I don't live in that world. The steering is subject to the safety and technology that the manufacturers are forced to put in their new cars. Stupid lane keep assist 💔
Maybe somebody can find out how to map the Supra steering program, into the BMWs. 🤔 It's supposedly better.
Bottom line for me is, I think most of the jaded TH-cam reviewers need to sit back and take a look at what they feel versus the facts, and keep that to themselves, instead of flaming a car, because they can't get past their jaded expectations.
It's not a homologation vehicle anymore.
Love your videos Spencer. Keep up the hard work. Don't take this as an attack towards you. 👍😎👍 To each their own, that's why the car community is interesting.
After the E36 no bmw's caught my attention until the 1st time I saw a YAS M3 at an airport in '15. My jaw dropped and who knew, now I own a mineral white f82. 🥰 and definitely enjoy the sound. To each his own I guess 🤷
I have an F80 Comp, my first BMW, and my first M3. I've always been a HUGE fan of the E36, still my favorite of all time but when i decided to part ways with my 06' STi(i still miss it...) I opted to go for an M and I wanted something modern. I figure newer equates to better because of technology, R&D, creature comforts, etc. So I got my F80 and I absolutely love it! I can't knock the E9x because I've never owned/ driven one so I have no input to give on it. I appreciate the V8, I've heard them and they sound very nice but I also love the sound of my F80, and it's turbo(i love turbo cars 🤷🏽♂️). I personally feel that everytime i drive my F80 it's an experience. A literally fun drive at 30, 60, 80 or 140 MPH. Just enjoyable, to me anyways. Anyhow, F80 for me all the way. No disrespect to E9x owners, ultimately it comes to preference. They are both great machines in my opinion.
Just not a fan of the f80 just doesn't sound like I thought. Always will prefer E9x
If you put that M tri color in your grill your opinion shouldn’t count.
Mike lost me when he said the dct in the f80 was terrible. The f80 dct is light years ahead of the e90 dct.
He’s not lying that shit is horrible for the price of the car I would of thought the dct would be everything but it’s really not
@@boostedwithshane4038 how is it horrible? In what way?
@@BAYAREAMX I just bought mines 2017 comp pack and the way it shifts is not as exciting how I imagine it would
Be, like I test drove an f10 m5 and I feel in love now the way that car shifts i feel everything, the only reason I didn’t go with the m5 is because of how bad the engines are
Just to clarify things. The E9X (M and Non M) DCT, M5/M6 DCT, M3/M4 (F8X) shares the exact same DCT. Only difference is variance of bell housing, software, and gearing ratio. Unfortunately the F8X software has the worst 1st gear out of all of them. Starting off from a stop, the vehicle jumps forward. Then with your body constantly shifting back and forward, you continue to "jolt". This is what I meant, by they have the worst DCT transmission out of all of them. Oh this applies to the manual trans too, not sure why they all do this
@@TruongMikeMai XHP software will help. I was reason on the forums of people talking about how to get F10/F13 software on the F8X DCT since the software on those DCT’s is much better and not as jerky.
Spencer I really hope you still do showcases of F8X's. I love the E9X content though. Thanks for what you do!
I will!!
16:59 what trim part number from the Steering wheel?
"the novelty of straight line speed wears off" a perfect statement
I like how people say this like the F80 M has a slower ring time cause it's got marshmallow suspension. Do you know what E46 M owners say when they hear E9x M owners talk about handling? lol
beg to differ.... F82 is lighter, faster in a straight line, and in corners. And it NEVER gets old
@@bjlopez we respectfully say we wish we had the e92 v8 in our e46m3😂
@@Flight6LBJ I think 🤔 maybe you missed his point a little buddy. No disrespect AT ALL.. I rather like the f80 m3 alot actually. I think comparing the e90 m3 to the f80 isn't a fair shake. They aren't even in the same category. Take Forza as an example.. when you pick a class A car you rate it against other class A cars. Some cars in that category are better than others and some not. If The f80 is in the S class ( in forza ) it is now subject to be comparable to other S class cars such as the 911rs etc which sound 10x better and do everything better. So in the scenario the e92m3 would be at the top of the A class and compared to other comparable cars vs the f80 somewhere in the middle..and definitely below the 911 in everyway. I bring the 911 in the mix in a effort to parallel the unfair comparison
@@BimmerDude the entire video is about F8x vs E9x so I’m not sure what you are talking about. My point is this: not only does the thrill of straight line speed NOT wear off, but even IF it did, the F8x STILL handles better anyways.
Looks wise ..the F8x is a legend. The E92 is too heavy and no torque...which is unacceptable. You can however pulverise the E9x..that S65 is soul. Both are great..but the F8x with akro exhaust..its not close. Also..the crankhub is not an issue. Its 5-10x less of an issue than the rod bearing issue on the s65..
Good video! Some of the submissions are questionable especially when the second e90 gentlemen stated the f80 was “not much heavier” than the e90 (maybe like 3-400 lbs lighter) but overall some of the insight was awesome. Seems that if you’re performance oriented and looking for modern amenities inside of an absolute weapon, the F8X is a no brainer. Comparatively the more analog e90 with its awesome exhaust note is for someone who wants to enjoy the charmful late 2000s BMW craftsmanship on the weekend.
F80 ZCP owner. Was a dream car of mine for years and love most things about this car, comp pack exhaust definitely is an improvement over the base model. I can definitely agree with is there is way too much power for the chassis. Mine is stock and it loves to fishtail in 1st and 2nd if you give it too much. The DCT is great in higher gears but 1st is almost undriveable. Besides those flaws, I personally think it is the best looking M3, E9X coming at a close second. Have owned mine for 2 years and I never get tired of admiring the F8X chassis, it is sublime. For E9X, I have been passenger in a mate's with the works done on it. What an animal is all I can say. I have pondered picking up an E92 M3 for a while just for that V8, but now hearing the feedback on the responsiveness of the E9X gives me much more reason to look further.
DCT simps prefer the E92 because the motor sound compensates for the overall blandness of both cars.
I'm diehard e90. Never liked the f80. It's funny tho I now own a 991.1 which is the f80 of 911s and I love my 991.
I've got both but tbh the F82 is a daily driver in my opinion. The E92 is more fun to rip around town. My F82 is DCT and E92 is manual which may factor into my opinion. I use the F82 for road trips and E92 as a "drifter".
I had a leased E92 M3 and when the car was due back the F80/2 were at dealerships. I am ok with a turbo engine but not ok with the way that thing sounded. I feel the F80/2 is actually one of the worse sounding performance engines I have ever heard. I mean that in a serious way and not sarcastic at all. You have to not care about sound or be a fanboy to accept it. The new G80 generation seems to have improved the sound a lot.
The F80 doesn't sound bad from inside the car imo but outside its pretty bad stock
This is an interesting topic.
F80 is really really nice car ..but e92 is the last non turbo m3 and the only v8 m3 so far! and i just think e92 and e46 is the real m3 out there .my experience on my e92 is always excitement everytime i start the car its just i know it made for me every turn and every shift on my DCT and everytime im using my M mode gosshhh the connection between me and my e92 is just great no bmw will beat the sound! u guys know what im talkin about! but at end of the day they are both great M cars e92 and F80s gotta love them both!
Respectfully the f80 is the better all around car
the only thing the E9x offers is the sound like everyone says and the driving experience other than that the e9x can’t compare to the f80 i’m sorry lol.
Great video Spencer!
I prefer the e9x platform more than the f80. The e9x feels like a torque less e39 m5 imo lol
0:30
Lmfao the drive attached to the laptop
Not so much of a comparison video between the F8x and E9x, but a make me feel better about myself video because I gave up on the F8x, and while we're at it let's trash the F8x.
An address regarding things you hate about the F8x....
The sound: Oh my gosh dude! Its not a V8! Yes! A V8 is going to sound better, but get some equal length mid pipes or even a single mid pipe and it sounds way better.
It's too fast! Breaks traction: Seriously? If it's too fast, get Bootmod3 or MHD and use the "Boost by Gear Reduction" function to turn it down to your liking. You could also upgrade the turbos and move the torque curve up so it doesn't come in as early as the stock turbos.
I would think that is a good thing for a sports car to have plenty of power. More power is what most car enthusiasts are chasing when their car gets a little mundane. I would think that would be a major plus for the F8x as it is fast out of the box, the S55 is a strong engine with a closed deck design with forged internals, and the platform has great support to be modified as far as you want to go (e.g., stage 1&2 maps, flex fuel maps, full E85 maps, meth injection, port injection, rolling antilag features, upgraded hybrid turbos, upgraded twin turbos, and single turbo kits). What can you do with a N/A V8? Maybe a flash tune that gets you minimal gains or maybe a stroker kit? Otherwise, you need to go supercharger.
I didn't find myself looking back the F80 as much: You bought the wrong color! Basic white is not an exciting color. ;)
The F8x steering is not as good as E9x: Probably right. An electric rack will likely have less feel or communication than a hydraulic one. I'm not sure its as bad as you say it is though. There are plenty of people tracking F8x's.
The F8x has no soul: Dang dude. That is pretty harsh Spencer. Clearly you didn't bond with your F80, and that is shame, but to label the whole platform to be soulless is a bit over the top.
When considering the E9x and F8x platforms, it is easy to see why they may be polarizing between enthusiasts. They share their heritage and badging, but their designs go in two different directions. I can see why both are loved by their owners and appreciate their differences with out trashing one over the other.
Of course the people that only had the m4 will be biased. The true answer is with in the people that had multiple M cars.
It's the sound for me. I fuckin LOVE the look of the F82, but the E9x holds a very special place in my heart. If BMW put the hydraulic steering feel and S65 engine in the F80/82 - NA as well - it'd be a wrap. Hardly anyone would go for the E9x. I also love the fact that you HAVE to really rev out the S65 to get full power out of the E9x. I've been in the market for either the F82 or E9x, and I've fully decided to go with the latter in 6spd.
Love both cars. Own a e46 M3 Competition, e93 M3, frozen white e92 Competition, and have almost bought a f80 on several occasions. The f80 is amazing but I can’t get over the steering. I actually love how it sounds with equal mid pipes and reminds me of my e46 M3. The steering in the f80 has nearly put me in a ditch, it is not very predictable and doesn’t allow you to truly feel what the car is doing. The e9x/e46 M3’s are slower but the way they handle is perfection to me. When I am ready for a new daily I will for sure get an f80 though. I just couldn’t justify getting an f80 as a weekend car. As a daily they are perfect.
e46 M3 - Case Closed
I leased an F series 340 and G series M340 when I worked for bmw and they were both quick. It’s weird I never even drove an e90 3 series car when I purchased my e92 M3. I don’t miss either of the other cars. This just drives and handles so much better IMO. But….great video!!
Iv owned both of them twice each lol... S65 for character for sure. Cant beat that experience. S55 for power.. economy , new tech
"Too Much Power" is ridiculous. It doesn't matter if the car has 1200hp, unless it is tuned horribly you choose how much power to use. They're both amazing & a lot of e90 and f80 owners need to swap cars and speak from experience, not other people's opinions
Owned both, E9X feels old school, raw and wins in driving feel. F8X is loaded with tech, modern body style, mega wide, more comfortable and accelerates significantly faster. If you have to pick 1 car for daily, it has to be the F8X. 2 cars? F8X DCT daily and E9X 6MT weekends.
Nice take! I do love my E60 M5!
I agree on the steering. It turns well, but communicates poorly. I feel like the steering is heavy for no particular reason with no feedback and I'm coming from a manual rack MR2. I'll have to play with the settings a bit more. The power is pretty ridiculous stock and I've been driving a supercharged ND MX5 for the past 8 months, but it's quickly doing things and I get a little kick back in the seat and hear some noises way in the back somewhere. It's undeniably capable and fantastic as a tool, but it just feels like all the critique aimed at the GT-R from around 2009-2015 is all applicable to it. I'm going to do some diff mounts and if that doesn't make it sporty or engaging then I'll probably ship it off. It reminds me of riding in a pre-2015 Mustang. Unfortunately, it just kind of fell in my lap for a great deal and needs some work that I can sort out. I still want to try an e89, but am also open to a 4-cylinder. The only BMW I ever really wanted was an e30 318is. To me handling and the right amount and kind of power are important. It's a shame the industry became so obsessed with appeasing the nerds with the brochure racing. I will say that I'm happy to have experienced one BMW product even if it's my last. HUD will probably be my most missed feature. e89 or RX8 Will most likely be the next in sequence. I don't really want to waste our last decade with cars that don't provide a feeling I enjoy.
I’ve had both i Would have kept the f80 over the e92 and I used to love the e92 but it’s hard work . it’s sort of inbetween of being there but not fully there . I live in the U.K. I’ve kept my e46 m3 in the end . I call it the sweet spot where Its a balance of nice ingredients but we are blessed to have been offered different versions of the m3 , a turbo one a v8 one an old school n/a ones etc . they are all showcasing different variations driving styles and markets . you can’t have it all one.
10:30 when you say you’d never drive a s55, what about a m2c or m2cs?
If you’re new to either car or trying to make a decision-to save time-start with the steering. If you can live with the electric steering of the F80, you can confidently buy one. I find the hydraulic / power steering on the E92 to be a little vague. So anything, like the F80, with less feedback, I can’t accept. I’m also interested in resale value. I don’t think that the F80 will be a collector’s item like the E92.
The way I see it is, it’s all bmw, all bmws are beautiful just to each their own
Oh and also the f8X chassis is lighter than the e9X chassis lol so what more can you ask for, only thing the e9X has over it is the sound that v8 sounds sick not gonna lie
After watching so many M3 videos I think I'm gonna go with a C7
does it common in California? malaysia hardly seen a M3 E90 mostly is e92 wagon only have one in malaysia here
BMW F80 with single turbo conversion sounds hot check LLF on you tube.
as someone whose owned a f82 m4 and driven my friends e92 m3, the f8x's to me is a way better daily, the e92's low end torque seems way too low so I ended up selling my f82 m4 and got a gt350 which to me felt even more connected then the e92 and still pretty good low end torque. Currently thinking of getting an f80 m3 to get something 4 door to more easily daily as a second vehicle since it seems way more reliable than the e92 since my friend with the e92 has been having a lot fo different oil issues