Significant differences 325i vs 330i

[Beemer Dreamer]

I will be test driving next. Both cars tested will be automatics. What should I expect? Will passing cars be a problem on the lower end?

Thanks

kimble

 

[Bryan330i]

To get the Imola red requires the performance package. The ZHP, as I have just learned is the performance package, has 235 HP and a tested top speed of 150-159. Also, upgraded suspension said by some to be an M division product. This will make a big difference when compared to the 325. But then again, who cares? How many times are you going to drive 130, 140, or 150 MPH? Also, I am not sure the acceleration makes that much of a difference for those of us that drive daily in bigger cities. I like my ZHP, it is a lot of fun but I think the 325 are fun also. The 325 is not as rough of a ride as the ZHP. Cant go wrong with either of them.

IMO, I love the 6 speed in my car. Would never get anything else in it, I think it fits the car.

 

[demq]

Problem with passing cars???
There will be problems Only with passing Ferraries©©[fake]

 

[sueh]

I have a 325i and love it. I will say that to have fun with it you really need to get a stick.

 

[bmwrocks]

After driving the 3 liter in both my X5 and my 330Ci I can tell you the power difference is very noticeable from a 325. I drove a 325i for 3 days as a loaner and no offense to any 325 owners but the thing felt like a dog in comparison.

Also I cannot speak for the 330i ZHP but the suspension on my Ci blows away the 325i suspension. Totally tighter feel and more control with the 330Ci w/sport package. Some of this can be attributed to the high perf tires as well.

Spend the money on the ZHP if you can afford to. It will be well worth it in the fun-factor department.

 

[donmbmw]

My wife has an '02 325i and I have an '04 330i. Both are steptronic. The 325 is great for around town and highway cruising. It has a little softer suspension and plenty of low end giddyup. But when it comes to highway passing and lane changing the 330 is the only way to go. I mean you move the gear selector to the sport position give two quick "pops" forward to downshift to third and hang on! You just have to THINK about blowing past the car next to you and you are there. The long and windy roads are a blast in the 330 too. The 325 just does not have the thrust and the extra firmness reduces some of the body roll. I also like the feel of the steering wheel better on the 330. It's a little thicker and the leather is rougher hewn to give better grip. Of course the perks on the 330 also add to the experience. The Harmon Kardon is great. The 17" wheels have a different design on them this year. Sort of a cross between the 325 and M3. I can't get really comfortable in either of the cars(whats with the hard ass seats)? but the lumbar support in the 330 makes it a more comfortable ride for me. Another cool feature of the 330 is the BMW ACCESS// this is an on star type program complete with concierge service. I didn't ask for it but my dealer gave to me free for a year. It puts that cool looking fin on the back of the roof like the seven series and really sets my car apart from the crowd. Alpine white with the natural brown interior. It's a total package // looks great , is fast, ride is well....bmw. Delicious!

 

[codex57]

My friend bought a 330ci 2 weeks after I got my 325. His car kicks my ass. I generally have no problems passing unless I'm trying to merge in a lane where the cars behind are driving 15-20mph faster. That's when my car feels like a dog. The 330 has no problems of that sort. It just rockets forward at highway speeds. The 330 is def worth it if you can swing it. Around town, the 325 is just fine. The 18 inch wheels on my friend's 330 are just stiff enough to annoy. I'd stick with the 17s. The gas mileage is actually pretty much the same on both cars

 

[drako]

see now i went a did the Imola Red on an E36 3251i check it out

http://www.cardomain.com/member_pages/view_page.pl?page_id=430245