[Whazzup@NJ]

So I had a 2010 e60 535 with xDrive, sport package. I nearly got the e93 previously, but the sport package at the time was just a little too tight for my taste. Fast forward 3 years, and, either I'm used to the BMW driving experience, or they've softened the suspension a bit. In any case, I just picked up a 2012 e93 335i M-Sport and I am extremely happy. It is the car I wish I had gotten before.

What I like: Lower to the ground, sportier and more of a driver's car. Still quiet, but just a bit more road noise. More connected to the road. Handling is flatter, exhaust is sweeter. I am still in the break-in period, but I expect it will feel faster. I did kick out the rear wheels a bit on the test drive, but mine's BTO and I haven't pushed it yet. The iDrive & entertainment are a bit nicer (Bluetooth streaming audio, for example).

What I miss: Heated steering wheel was not available on the M-Sport. The sport seats are missing a mid-back articulation. The back seats and trunk are, as expected, substantially smaller (but who cares... it's my car!). I can't think of much else.

This is an amazing vehicle. I can't get over the retractable hard top; it's just cool!

[Dark_Knight_335]

Love my E93 m-sport- best decision I ever made. Nothing like cruising with the top down on those mild spring days- that's what life is all about!

[M-Steep]

+1 on the upgrade. E93 is really an amazingly competent vehicle.

Thirty years as a car guy, this one finally scratches the itch.

[Dark_Knight_335]

With the full m-sport package we have a badass looking front bumper, rocker panels, and rear bumper and diffuser!
I too had a heated steering wheel, but quickly forgot about it one week into this car

[roadkillrob]

The intercooler isn't any different on the m-sport package and the oil cooler comes on the sport package or m-sport package.

Strut brace is standard on all E9x cars, there is extra bracing on the E93 in several places, but it is to make up for the lack of strength removing the roof causes and making it closer to the E92, but not better.

535 is a nice car, but the E93 is so much more fun to drive and top down you can't beat it!

[Dark_Knight_335]

Ah ok Rob, guess my sales guy was a bit overzealous when pitching it to me

Thanks for giving me the skinny on it

Is it possible to have an upgraded intercooler with any package though? (this one was loaded to the teeth, even had the alarm wired!)

[CJ421]

Congrats on the car, OP, and thanks for the write-up.

BMW does not offer an upgraded intercooler from the factory or as an add-on. There are many excellent aftermarket options - Helix, ER, ETS ...
The N55 is fine with the stock intercooler even at the track. I'm going to upgrade my intercooler though for more consistent WOT runs (heat soak affects the stock one after 1-2 runs).

I have an E92 335i and while I love it, there are times I wish I could take the top off completely.

[O HELLA BMW]

nothing like top down cruising with my gf by my side and hearing my exhaust note!!

[Whazzup@NJ]

Originally Posted by M-Steep

+1 on the upgrade. E93 is really an amazingly competent vehicle.

Thirty years as a car guy, this one finally scratches the itch.

What's really amazing is that, for the first time in a long time, I have no "buyer's remorse". Within 5 minutes of driving off the lot, I was smiling.

[M-Steep]

^ That's it!

[Whazzup@NJ]

Week one -- I freakin' love this car. The exhaust sound is intoxicating. I can't wait to bring the engine (top down) to 5-6K RPM. I've been a little light on the gas during break-in.

Top down, the car is a cruiser. It handles OK, but you can tell it's missing some support.

Top up -- it's a blast to drive. Handles amazing. Solid as a rock.

BMW engineers rock!

Pics to follow. Too busy driving.

[Whazzup@NJ]

Finally got a chance to get some pics. I really like the saddle interior. It just stands out nicely.

[Dark_Knight_335]

Nice ride brother - Jersey representin!!