I've noticed a lot of E46 M3s around my town but I have not yet to see one with the "competition" package, which is like a CSL package (19" lightweight wheels, bigger brakes, alcantra steering wheel, M track DSC, revised suspension, etc.)





Regular





Competition Pkg

Anyone have experience driving both? Is the competition package really worth it?

 

Yes and No .

 

" In fact, this 335i sedan beat the last 333-hp 2005 M3 Competition Package we tested in every measurable way.

It danced away from the M-spec two-door in the run to 60 mph by a half-second, stopped from 60 mph 1 foot shorter, and raced through the slalom 2 mph quicker. Since we pronounced the $55,840 M3 "The Best M3 Ever Sold in America," what does this make the $44,270 335i?"

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drive...rticleId=119739

 

I think it has a quicker steering rack also.

 

starting with the December 2005 production, the regular M3 had the same suspension as the ZCP (Competition Package).

you gain the alcantara steering, but you lose the buttons... the 19" wheels are different, but they are cast... not forged, like the OEM 19" option...

 

can someone plz explain what is so great about alcantara steering wheel?

seems to me the steering wheel buttons is a convienence i wouldn't wanna lose

 

It feels nice in your hands and it isn't as slippery as leather. The problem is they don't exactly wear well, but I've heard of cases where BMW replaced them due to rapid deterioration.

 

quicker steering ratio is the best thing IMO

 

FYI the suspension is all the same in it's last couple of years.

 

Yes, I have one

Is it worth it? I have to believe with the way M3's are holding their value (like a lead balloon) that they are close to the same price for an 05 with or without it. As said before the suspension is the same with the steering ratio being the biggest difference. I say just try to get it at the same price as a non ZCP (competition package code) and be done.


Regarding the 335 being faster and better than the 05 ZCP M3. Well at least mine looks better!

Kevin