I have the identical M3 and plan on picking up something from the GT boys this spring.
Really want a 997 GT2 RS but @ current market value, it's just not possible.
Haven't driven a 718 but have driven a 911R and GT3 and can imagine a 4.0 must also be a terrific choice -with a manual of course.
The manual in my M3 started off badly and got worse. It took some work but BMW finally agreed to replace it. I think seeing copper sparkles in the trans fluid helped.
I'm happy to report that while not perfect the new transmission is miles better than it was. I jumped on a car that was in stock and was delivered to me with roughly 90 miles. Who knows what happened during this time.
I'm hopeful that after some use it smoothes out a bit. And I'm confident given past experiences that a clutch stop, delay valve delete, ssk, and a weighted shift knob will further improve the feel.
One thing I should mention is the factory BMW tech that approved the replacement wants the transmission fluid changed at 1,200 miles.
I don't know if this is done for reference, preventative maintenance, or both.
I believe this was at one point in time part of the break-in service for BMW but can't recall for certain. In any case, I've done this in the past with my other manual cars to satisfy my own obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Enjoy the car and maybe I'll bump into at Bill Jacobs
