It was great fun, but also lots of hard work. We were outside filming and driving for at least 12 hours a day. But I can't complain; all petrol, beer, accomodation and any other expenses were paid for by the magazine - all I had to do was drive the cars and then sum up my impressions. I've done quite a few magazine articles and TV bits over the years, but then I've known many of the UK journos for well over a decade.

I'm happy to answer anyone's questions on what the Z4M was really like.

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2 questions: How was the ride quality & how can I score a gig like that?!

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'08 335i Coupe - Barbera Red / Saddle Leather / Light Poplar Wood / 6spd Manual
Options: Sport, Premium, Cold Weather, Comfort Access, Active Steering (awesome!), Power Rear Shade, IPod Adapter, Navigation w/IDrive
Mods: M6 Wheels, Split Armrest, M-Steering Wheel, Euro Light Switch w/Rear Fog Lights, Short Shift Knob w/Matching E-Brake Handle, Clear Reflectors, CDV, Clear Bra

Retired:'04 X5 4.4i

So jealous...

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- Aaron

/// My X Page ///

The ride quality on the Z4M was 'much' better than a regular Z4, even one that has had the RFT replaced by non run-flats. It was about on a par with the Boxster S mid-way between the Boxster's Sport and Comfort modes. I really liked it, it's noticeably quicker than an E46 M3, sounds a lot better and is much more agile. I've already advised anyone that has an M3 but would like to stay with M Division than a Z4M Coupe will make a good replacement (provided they don't need the 4 seats).

Scoring the gig? Good timing I guess. I got to know the whole team of journalists on the UK Performance Car Magazine back in the mid-90s, I lived near EMAPs offices and we used to go out for lunch and I'd bring round new cars I'd bought for them to have a go with. At one time I worked with Jeremy Clarkson on an article looking at Nissan Sylines and the 300ZX. I've supplied EVO with cars from friends and colleagues in the industry and I've generally been willing to give my time (and cars) whenever they're in a fix. I wrote the buying guide for the M3 CSL in EVO magazine last August and my brother wrote one of their running reports for several years when he owned TVRs. They often invite me to join them for a test session but sometimes I'm too busy.

http://xoutpost.com/gallery/files/4/1/DSCN1903.jpg

I keep hoping one day that I might get invited to one of their massive Supercar test sessions with perhaps a Ferrari 599, Lambo Murcialago, Pagani Zonda etc.. but so far my begging has fallen on deaf ears. I'll need to resort to bribery and then perhaps blackmail if they don't answer my pleas soon..

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Wow Steved must have been a great experience. Awesome job to have even though its only every once in a while.

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Dinan M3

2006 X5 4.4i Sport Current Vehicle
2006 CLS 55 AMG Current Vehicle
2010 FORD F-450 King Ranch Current Vehicle
2012 GL 550 Current Vehicle

1999 M3 Dinan S3 SOLD
2001 M3 Dinan S2 SOLD
2002 M5 SOLD
2004 X5 4.4i sport SOLD
2007 335 XI Lease ended
2009 E92 M3 SOLD