A Chassis Rig Reveals Why the E90 and F30 Feel So Different

[lulz_m3]

Ran across this great article from Car & Driver showing the differences between the F30 and E90 chassis. I thought it was a good read. I really hope they can address the electric steering feel with the M3/M4.

http://blog.caranddriver.com/a-tale-...-so-different/

[Sticky]

This sums it up:

In summary, the most significant change from the E90 to the F30 results from the switch to electric power-steering assist, which diminishes feel. Body roll in the two cars is identical, but the use of rear-suspension understeer instead of  larger tires in back may be why the new 328i feels less agile turning into corners. All of  it adds up to a softer, tamer 3-series that’s more about luxury than fun.

Prefix edited to reflect general 3-Series.

[lulz_m3]

This sums it up:



Prefix edited to reflect general 3-Series. [/FONT][/COLOR]

Basically.. Thanks for the TLDR.

[ajm8127]

Interesting they raised the CG of the F30 by an inch, but also raised the roll centers by an inch to keep the roll couple the same. This may help produce the same amount of roll per g, but I wonder if it does anything to the responsiveness of the car in transients as the CG is higher, or if that is canceled by the higher roll centers as well.

The wheel rates are lower in the F30 requiring thicker anti-roll bars to produce the same roll as the E90 per g. Generally I was under the impression running stiffer springs was always better to the point of the suspension losing too much compliance to keep the tires in contact with the road. All of this depends on the road surface of course. I guess this is more evidence the F30 is moving away from an enthusiasts car and more towards a luxury one.

In short, that K&C machine is one awesome piece of equipment.

[lulz_m3]

In short, that K&C machine is one awesome piece of equipment.

I was impressed as well, you generally just get to read reviews about handling. Nice to see some actual facts. I really wish someone had the ability to do this with more car reviews/comparisons. I also agree on your comment that the F30 (sedan at least) is going more towards luxury and stepping back from enthusiast pleasing. I wonder how the 4 series(non M) would stack up?

[Red_bean_bun]

Agree.....it's getting to be a luxury series .... The 3 series I meant.