Brembo had recently announced the release of a monobloc caliper system for its GT brake upgrades. The one-piece aluminum-bodied calipers are specifically designed and engineered for aftermarket applications. Several new features abound, such as an integral stiffening bridge, differential piston bores and larger pad volume. Plus, the system was fully compatible with the M3's factory ABS and traction control programs.
The M was fitted with huge six-piston calipers in the classic Brembo red finish and 14-inch cross-drilled rotors. The beauty of this system, at least from the driver's seat, is how subtly it operates under normal driving conditions. Unlike some systems that tend to be grabby, this set-up eases the car into stops much like the stock units. When you really call on the additional braking power, it's immediately evident that there are monsters bolted behind the front rims. With the main reason for the upgrade being future track time, knowing such stopping power will be there consistently, with repeated hard braking, is an exciting proposition.
The M is now impeccable to drive and, with its lower, more aggressive stance and minor facelift, looks even more menacing. Additional styling parts are generally non-functional on street cars, but anyone who has upgraded an E46 M3 knows there's a line of aftermarket aesthetics that put the physique of the M3 even closer to perfection. Vorsteiner's CSL-Style and recently released GTS3 aero components are cloned from the infamous but elusive M3 CSL. To make my dilemma worse, Vorsteiner products have an unsurpassable reputation for quality and precision fit. I started contemplating a full-blown makeover. A CSL-Style trunk lid and rear diffuser, plus a GTS3 front lip and side skirts were soon grafted onto the car and sent to Wet Works Garage in Costa Mesa, California. With the Vorsteiner look so popular among the M3 crowd, I consulted the crew at Wet Works about providing mine with some sort of subtle trickery for an individual look. The result is a flawless color-matched paint job with carbon fiber inserts on all four lower pieces, coated in a one-off and understated candy finish which is cleverly evident only when viewed from certain angles.
My inclinations have gotten the better of me. Too bad. Every time I walk into my garage I wouldn't have it any other way. My dream car is a reality and now the reality is a dream to drive. With a proper suspension set-up and the possibility of even more horsepower, it seems I'm going to be stuck in fantasyland for some time to come.