Just a few more comments about installing the E36 M3 shift lever in my 84 533 (E28).
To be honest, I'm surprised at how well it worked. There really doesn't seem to be a downside. The throw is shortened, the shift pattern stays in the same spot and it doesn't take any more effort to shift. The shifter sits slightly lower, but not much. In my opinion, it was definitely worth the effort to install it. The only thing that needs to be slightly modified is the shift boot because the M3 shift lever is a little fatter than the stock E28 lever. This can easily be done. The install is pretty straightforward. The only thing that took awhile was trying to figure out how to get the nylon bushing off the 533 shifter without breaking it so it can be used with the M3 lever. (The bushings are different between the 2 levers and you need to use the stock 533 bushing. The 533 has a 2 piece bushing, vs a one piece bushing for the M3) The rest of the install is easy. Everything fits very well.

But is it as good as the ACS shifter? No. The ACS shifter is more precise. There is virtually no slop at all in the ACS shifter. The M3 shifter upgrade is a major improvement, but there is still some slop. But I am still very happy with the results!!

Suzy