My 355 - the first 3 weeks

I took delivery on the 6th, drove it as much as I could. The next week I was off, so I spent much of the week getting all the little things I could in line (between standing back in the garage and erupting into fits of maniacal laughter at the beauty sitting there). I replaced a few minor bulbs, found some screws for the door panels, replaced the battery (Optima) and (the big cahuna...) sprung for some hyperflow cats.

Now I thought the cats would take a day or two to install - mmm.... no. As you know, these cars are all a little different. Well, the first set didn't want to fit. On the second install go 'round, it was mutually decided to try another set. New cats drop shipped overnight (unbeatabel customer service!). Come home at lunch for just a minute, new cats line up fine... it's going to happen! (at this point I am starting to tire of poking at it and looking forward to driving it...)

So the new cats fit in, though I have limited clearance from these bolts that stick up like tree stumps from the transaxle, like someone just didn't measure it correctly and then just said, WTF! After a phone call to Tom Jones at Sport Auto I am cleared to space the bolts down a bit. So, I reset the entire exhaust - everything is PERFECT!!!

Just need to pull those pesky bolts... but wait!! They are just spinning! Now it is me saying WTF?? Another call to Sport Auto... whoops, there are hidden nuts on top. No problem. You just need to pull the cats out to get to them. The cats that I just spent 3 hours getting in place.

Oh, and I just happen to realize that the dome light has been on for the last 8 days and has completely drained my (new) Optima battery.

AAARGGH! Luckily, by now I am a pro, so another nights work (OK, two nights...) and the bolts are spaced and the exhaust is perfect. A quick spin last night confirms the battery is recharged and no check engine lights, no (obvious) leaks.

Today, a drive to the local bimmer dealer to get a VA inspection. This brings out the whole place. Anyone who thinks a 355 looks "dated"... well the rest of the world doesn't seem to. The mechanic says "has it has a recent service?" I tell him yes, with full fluids, etc. He says "good. Because I don't really want to do anything to it!" The gathered crew insists on hearing the motor run up as I leave, and I am happy to oblige.

And that is where things become down-right unbelievable. The sound of the hyperflows and tubi... all the hype... all the build up... it's all true! There are other cars that sound really good, but nothing else sounds like this!!! When that thing hits 4000 rpm there is the beginning of an unearthly howl that is just indescribable! I drove for about an hour, just to hear the sound, continuing the idiot giggling that persists even now.

There are faster cars, there are better built cars, better handling cars, yada yada yada. This thing is just unbelievable fun. I am counting the hours until I am back in it again! Whoohoo!