Thinking about picking up an 05 M3 as a companion to my S52 M Coupe but I need to determine ZCP or not to ZCP, that is the question? I seem to recall that when the ZCP was introduced that the non-zcp received a few carry-over items as well, namely the updated steering rack and possibly changes to the exhaust removing some of the rasp. Is the updated rack in the 05 non-zcp? I'd really like to also have the breaks of the ZCP but if I can persuade the dealer to give me a good price on CPO 05 11k miles non-zcp M I'll probably go for it. Are there any other performance items on the ZCP that would be better to get OEM or would a 05 with Brembo/StopTech with coilovers be on par if not better than the ZCP for about the same cost? If the cost exceeds then maybe my search should be for the zcp model. I guess for me right now I care more about the perceived performance differences between the two. I doubt I’ll be able to due a head to head compare since there a few zcp’s for sale and none within my area.

Thanks for the advice,
Mike

I've had them both, so I will offer a comment. The steering gear is a little faster in the ZCP; can't see that it's much of an advantage, but it's there if you like it. The only difference in the brakes is the slightly larger, two-piece rotor; caliper is the same. The two-piece rotor is lighter and handles track-generated heat better. I feel it is the only real advantage in the package; not worth $4K by a long shot. Within model year, there is no suspension difference between ZCP and non-ZCP cars. So, if you do much track stuff, you will probably make some suspension changes. I went with a TC Kline suspension, and like it very much. And cruse control is not available with the ZCP package, which is a silly marketing gimmick for the "competition" package. So, unless you just have to have the CSL wheels and faster steering gear, save your money.

I've had them both, so I will offer a comment. The steering gear is a little faster in the ZCP; can't see that it's much of an advantage, but it's there if you like it. The only difference in the brakes is the slightly larger, two-piece rotor; caliper is the same. The two-piece rotor is lighter and handles track-generated heat better. I feel it is the only real advantage in the package; not worth $4K by a long shot. Within model year, there is no suspension difference between ZCP and non-ZCP cars. So, if you do much track stuff, you will probably make some suspension changes. I went with a TC Kline suspension, and like it very much. And cruse control is not available with the ZCP package, which is a silly marketing gimmick for the "competition" package. So, unless you just have to have the CSL wheels and faster steering gear, save your money.

Thanks for your honest opinion, much appreciated.
Mike

go with the zcp dewd.
4K more for wheels brakes, steering, alcantera/interiror and a difference from a normal M3 is worth it in the long run.

I dunno.... I wanted zcp, ended up without it, but when I found out there is no cruise control, I was glad I went with non-zcp. that button keeps me out of trouble even on 45mph roads, hehe. But then again, from what i have been told I use cruise control more than anyone I've met. I use it alteast once almost every time I get in the car. The only thing that would make it worthwhile for me, is the more direct steering ratio, which apparently isnt that big of a difference anyway. and If I really wanted to I could swap it into my car, however it would effect DSC due to the angles, but If I am tracking it DSC wont be on.

The other big thing, is track mode DSC. Now that could possibly make it a worthwhile choice if you dont need cruise control. I want track mode so bad... people have even tried to activate it on ZCP model year cars through the cruise "resume" button. they found the proper pin for the signal wire to the track mode button from a zcp steering wheel and tried to activate it on non zcp cars to see if the track mode DSC is embedded into all chips for zcp model years. but so far only zcp cars can access it or have it in their programming.


In my opinion, if you can live without cruise control ever again (for this car atleast) then and only then, the reasons to go with a ZCP M3 would be the Alcantara Interior, Track Mode DSC, and the brakes. The steering ratio isnt much, and the rims can be picked up for under $1K.

I dunno.... I wanted zcp, ended up without it, but when I found out there is no cruise control, I was glad I went with non-zcp. that button keeps me out of trouble even on 45mph roads, hehe. But then again, from what i have been told I use cruise control more than anyone I've met. I use it alteast once almost every time I get in the car. The only thing that would make it worthwhile for me, is the more direct steering ratio, which apparently isnt that big of a difference anyway. and If I really wanted to I could swap it into my car, however it would effect DSC due to the angles, but If I am tracking it DSC wont be on.

The other big thing, is track mode DSC. Now that could possibly make it a worthwhile choice if you dont need cruise control. I want track mode so bad... people have even tried to activate it on ZCP model year cars through the cruise "resume" button. they found the proper pin for the signal wire to the track mode button from a zcp steering wheel and tried to activate it on non zcp cars to see if the track mode DSC is embedded into all chips for zcp model years. but so far only zcp cars can access it or have it in their programming.


In my opinion, if you can live without cruise control ever again (for this car atleast) then and only then, the reasons to go with a ZCP M3 would be the Alcantara Interior, Track Mode DSC, and the brakes. The steering ratio isnt much, and the rims can be picked up for under $1K.

I assume track mode a little less intrusive than normal DSC? I'd likely turn it off anyway when it's time to play. I was convinced that an 05 model would have the new rack.:(

go with the zcp dewd.
4K more for wheels brakes, steering, alcantera/interiror and a difference from a normal M3 is worth it in the long run.

The zcp is top choice; but It seems they are few and far between.

The zcp is top choice; but It seems they are few and far between.

Yeah man, get somthing a little different if you can.
Also when you re-sell it might have a bit more of a wow factor than the boatloads of non ZCP's
The track mode is awesome, when ya don't want the DSC all the way off and the button is on the steering wheel. Very easy to tap. It's another option and don't forget the interior trim..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/vader13/BlueM32003.jpg

Yeah man, get somthing a little different if you can.
Also when you re-sell it might have a bit more of a wow factor than the boatloads of non ZCP's
The track mode is awesome, when ya don't want the DSC all the way off and the button is on the steering wheel. Very easy to tap. It's another option and don't forget the interior trim..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/vader13/BlueM32003.jpg

sickness!!:buttrock

I have a zcp and I love it but the alcantara does require a bit more maintenance than the standard wheel. You can spend the 4k on aftermarket products but on a practical level it's not much considering you still have the benefit of factory warranty. If you want something slightly different than "vanilla" and you're not modding for at least 1 year go for the zcp. Oh if you drive long distances cruise control could be something you'll miss. I personally enjoy keeping my foot on the pedal :D