Does anyone track their 550i?

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

03-21-2008, 07:16 AM

#11

Richard in NC

Senior Members

Join Date: Mar 2007

Location: North Carolina, USA

Posts: 1,517

Likes: 0

Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

My Ride: 2008 BMW 550i 2006 BMW X3

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard in NC' post='548371' date='Mar 20 2008, 07:33 PM

I was quite impressed with the stock 550i on track. The performance, handling, and braking where all fine with no issues. Although obviously it's no light weight M3. Here is a link to my write up: 550i at VIR. See post #11 for my comments. In short, the brakes were fine with no fade, the handling was good once you learned to set the car and be smooth, and the performance suprised a lot of sports cars (Boxter, older 911s, etc).

Here are some pictures I purchased from a pro photog at the track: 550i VIR pics. Note how flat it handles with the ARS.

Here is a link to that video: 550i VIR Video

I forgot to mention one thing. I DID have the brake fluid changed to ATE type 200, a higher temp fluid. It dramatically reduces the likelyhood of brake fade.
One thing I do like with the 550i and the sport package/M front bumper is the brake ducts are built in. I had to add them to the E39 M5. That also helps prevent brake fade. The real test of the ATE fluid and brake ducts is when I take the 550i to CMP in May. That track has 4 high speed braking zones in a 2 mile lap. There is no chance for the brakes to cool during the session.