newbe to BMW

[Speedy1]

Hey I'm from the porsche 911 side of the fence I purchased a 1998 BMW M3 last week and need some info.
Chassis stiffining and how
HP Ie...electronic air flow in & out
Susspension shocks what works best

on the chassis I can hear the body twisting via rubber seals squeek when pulling threw the driveway to street is this normal

HP electronics air intake and exahust which ones work
no suppercharging or turbo wanted. no budget for that.

Susspension I want a firmer ride but not as stiff as the 911 It has bilsteins sports non adjustable and sits at euro height.
I'd like a firm ride but sensible on the highway.
any help is appriciated.


Speedy1

[Jeron]

The noise could be old suspension bushings. The E36 is very stiff. Front strut braces are supposed to be of no use on an unmodified car and slightly useful on stiffened cars. Rear braces are probably only useful on track cars running R-comps.

The X-brace ($115-ish; OEM part from E36 convertibles) which ties the front sub-frame to the chassis is very good and easy to install. No down side.

Based on your wants I would first make sure my suspension components were good. (RSM, RTAB, FCAB, ball joints, control arms)

Then choose either shocks or sways. Finally I would consider springs. I'll bet you'll be happy before you get to springs. Once you do springs it will be rougher than your Porsche.

Cheapest intake mod is to remove the baffle on the air box. It gives better sound and more air. Tons of cat-backs that all give 5+ hp. I like ActiveAutowerks. I think Conforti makes a good chip.