325i or 330i?

RPM90 · 03-08-2006, 03:22 PM

I'm driving a 2003 325i that I leased and it's done in May.
So, I've got to decide on my next car and put the order in by the end of this month.

I've been getting great prices on the E90 and with the lease rates things look really good.
I do have a dilema, sort of. Given the lease rates I can get into a
330i for not much more than a 325i, equally equipped.
Everything tells me to go with the 330i, but I'm not a fan of the large (read heavy) 18" wheels, although they look SWEET.

Oh well, it's not a bad problem to have.

But, I want a red 3 this time. I know most 3's are in subdued metallic colors, 325i is silver, but I want some color this time.
I'm thinking bright red with black interior.
Or, arctic with terra, or gray with terra.

Those of you who have the bright red or had it on their E46, how well does the flat red hold up? I find that bright red and silver hold on to looking clean the longest. I'm curious as to the quality of the bright red flat paint. Any experience?

T

Oz · 03-08-2006, 03:46 PM

Go for 330i if the difference is not huge

You can get 330i withou ZSP if you don't want large wheels. I'm perfectly happy with my 159's and haven't had any problems..

Red/Black is a pretty good combo (I've seen one at my dealer when i got my car)

RPM90 · 03-08-2006, 03:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Oz

Go for 330i if the difference is not huge

You can get 330i withou ZSP if you don't want large wheels. I'm perfectly happy with my 159's and haven't had any problems..

Red/Black is a pretty good combo (I've seen one at my dealer when i got my car)

True. However, I really really must have the sport seats and the sport steering wheel. The 18's look good but I'm concerned about the weight along with the tires being runflats, which makes them heavier.

T

Oz · 03-08-2006, 04:02 PM

I haven't heard people complaining about the 162's being too heavy or anything like that. I don't think you should have any concerns.

Go for a 330i with ZPP/ZSP. You won't be disappointed

Good luck with your purchase

BimmerSD · 03-08-2006, 05:24 PM

Go with the 330i. The price difference if you go with sports package, and 18in wheels is relatively small and in my opinion well worth the additional HP you get with 330i

for some reason e90s with 17" wheels or smaller hold very little appeal to me.

Tweak48 · 03-08-2006, 05:38 PM

I've been really happy with the red/black combo. Mine really doesn't show dirt much. Only washed it once in three weeks!

LEDZEP · 03-08-2006, 05:41 PM

Don't know why I'm chiming in here, because this will certainly become a highly polarized thread. But here goes anyway:

I have two 325's. I prefer the 325 to the 330 for a couple reasons. I like the better gas mileage of the 325 because I commute. Also, I can add a lot of the options that I like and keep the car about $5k cheaper than a 330 similarly equipped. If I did it again (and probably will in about 2-3 years) I'll get a 325 again and just add more options.

That's my $.02

Ethirtynine · 03-08-2006, 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RPM90

True. However, I really really must have the sport seats and the sport steering wheel. The 18's look good but I'm concerned about the weight along with the tires being runflats, which makes them heavier.

T

Why are you so concerned about the weight of the wheels and tires?

F32Fleet · 03-08-2006, 05:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RPM90

I'm driving a 2003 325i that I leased and it's done in May.
So, I've got to decide on my next car and put the order in by the end of this month.

I've been getting great prices on the E90 and with the lease rates things look really good.
I do have a dilema, sort of. Given the lease rates I can get into a
330i for not much more than a 325i, equally equipped.
Everything tells me to go with the 330i, but I'm not a fan of the large (read heavy) 18" wheels, although they look SWEET.

Oh well, it's not a bad problem to have.

But, I want a red 3 this time. I know most 3's are in subdued metallic colors, 325i is silver, but I want some color this time.
I'm thinking bright red with black interior.
Or, arctic with terra, or gray with terra.

Those of you who have the bright red or had it on their E46, how well does the flat red hold up? I find that bright red and silver hold on to looking clean the longest. I'm curious as to the quality of the bright red flat paint. Any experience?

T

Wouldn't worry about wheel weight unless you're going to track the car, but on the other hand, if you are going to track the car, you'd probably get different wheels anyways.

JOYRIIDE1113 · 03-08-2006, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LEDZEP

Don't know why I'm chiming in here, because this will certainly become a highly polarized thread. But here goes anyway:

I have two 325's. I prefer the 325 to the 330 for a couple reasons. I like the better gas mileage of the 325 because I commute. Also, I can add a lot of the options that I like and keep the car about $5k cheaper than a 330 similarly equipped. If I did it again (and probably will in about 2-3 years) I'll get a 325 again and just add more options.

That's my $.02

Doesn't the 330i have slightly BETTER gas mileage?

David328M-Sport · 03-08-2006, 09:10 PM

For those of you fortunate people who live in the USA, you can buy an E90 for the lowest price on the planet!

If very adequate performance is for you, then the 325 is for you, however, if that extra performance is for you, then the 330 is for you.

You probably need to test drive each one and check for yourself if the extra money is worth spenmding if that is all it comes down to.

Decisions, decisions. If only we had the same prices as you guys.......

sdorn · 03-08-2006, 09:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JOYRIIDE1113

Doesn't the 330i have slightly BETTER gas mileage?

They are rated at exactly the same. I get about 32/23 mpg city/hwy or so.

CnoteMD · 03-08-2006, 10:15 PM

I would base the decision on if you plan on buying a heavily optioned car or not. There are many options on the 325i that are standard on the 330i. After adding a few things like xenon lights, logic7, etc the difference in price really starts to shrink.

I have not driven a 325i, but people here say that the acceleration isn't too much slower than a 330i. Going by looks alone, I think the 325i with sport package looks better than a standard 330i (though 330i with sport package is definitely my favorite).

Basically, if you are planning on relatively few options, a 325i may be the most cost effective choice. If you start adding on a lot of options, you might as well upgrade to the 330i.

JOYRIIDE1113 · 03-08-2006, 10:34 PM

Cool! I just figured the 330i would have slighly better milage, seeing as the intake and exhaust upgraded.

tl_boy · 03-09-2006, 12:19 AM

i'm a 325 owner and have this to ask: if you are concerned about the weight of the vehicles, are you not concerned about the hp difference? if the cost is almost the same, you should go for the 330. if the 18" are heavy, i doubt the 17" will be that much lighter.

0700700 · 03-09-2006, 12:19 AM

go for 330i

BMW F22 · 03-09-2006, 01:36 AM

wow this kind of threads have been discussed a thousand times. If it's like $30 diff. then go for a 330i. You mentioned similarly equipped. What does that mean?? Like a 325i with a few options vs a stripped 330i?? or a 330i with a few packages vs a 325i with a couple packages?? Basically it comes down to: if you want the standard options on the 330i, go with the 330i. If you can live without xenons, Logic7, power seats, chrome grills, exhaust pipes, larger brakes (only better for tracks), 40 additional HP and 35lbs ft torque, then by all means get the 325i. It's that simple.

brian32e · 03-09-2006, 01:44 AM

get a 330 ZSP. unless you're going totally bare bones 325i (then it's a pretty nice deal at right around 30K) by the time you add ZSP, xenon, power seats, logic7 etc you're near 330 range. might as well get the bigger wheels and the extra 40HP. also this is probably just me but E90's just look weird without 18's. I love my 162's.

Nikki · 03-09-2006, 01:46 AM

unless you want basically a bone stock 325i, you may as well get the 330i. i priced out a 325i for my dad today and it came to $40k....so you may as well spend $42k and get the 330i, for the extra horsepower and standard features.

lux.sh · 03-09-2006, 03:12 AM

I just built my E90 325/330 with SAME exact option. Interesting how difference came down to EXACTLY $3000.

So for the extra $3000 you spent, you get 40hp/35tq and 18" wheels.
Obviously, if you want more performance out of the E90, you get the 330.
If not, 325 is one for you. simple as that.

davinet78 · 03-09-2006, 06:18 AM

go for the 330

ben1364 · 03-09-2006, 10:43 AM

Ethirtynine asked, " Why are you so concerned about the weight of the wheels and tires?"

Good question. The tire/wheel package makes a (sometimes) substantial difference in unsprung weight. To the company's credit, they have done a good job tuning the suspension for the heavier run flop tires, all things considered.

03-08-2006, 03:22 PM	#1
RPM90 Major General 890 Rep 7,047 Posts Drives: 340i M-sport AT Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Chicago iTrader: (1)	325i or 330i? I'm driving a 2003 325i that I leased and it's done in May. So, I've got to decide on my next car and put the order in by the end of this month. I've been getting great prices on the E90 and with the lease rates things look really good. I do have a dilema, sort of. Given the lease rates I can get into a 330i for not much more than a 325i, equally equipped. Everything tells me to go with the 330i, but I'm not a fan of the large (read heavy) 18" wheels, although they look SWEET. Oh well, it's not a bad problem to have. But, I want a red 3 this time. I know most 3's are in subdued metallic colors, 325i is silver, but I want some color this time. I'm thinking bright red with black interior. Or, arctic with terra, or gray with terra. Those of you who have the bright red or had it on their E46, how well does the flat red hold up? I find that bright red and silver hold on to looking clean the longest. I'm curious as to the quality of the bright red flat paint. Any experience? T
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03-08-2006, 03:46 PM	#2
Oz Lieutenant Colonel 33 Rep 1,770 Posts Drives: 2006 330i, 2004 X5 Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Wayne, NJ iTrader: (1) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	Go for 330i if the difference is not huge You can get 330i withou ZSP if you don't want large wheels. I'm perfectly happy with my 159's and haven't had any problems.. Red/Black is a pretty good combo (I've seen one at my dealer when i got my car) __________________ 2006 330i Steptronic/Alpine White/Black Leather/Burl Walnut Trim/Premium Package/iDrive/Heated Seats/Winter: STYLE 159 Blizzak LM-22 RFT/Summer: TBD 2004 X5 Steptronic/Alpine White/Grey Leather/Poplar Trim/Premium Package/Heated Seats/iPod Adapter
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03-08-2006, 04:02 PM	#4
Oz Lieutenant Colonel 33 Rep 1,770 Posts Drives: 2006 330i, 2004 X5 Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Wayne, NJ iTrader: (1) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	I haven't heard people complaining about the 162's being too heavy or anything like that. I don't think you should have any concerns. Go for a 330i with ZPP/ZSP. You won't be disappointed Good luck with your purchase __________________ 2006 330i Steptronic/Alpine White/Black Leather/Burl Walnut Trim/Premium Package/iDrive/Heated Seats/Winter: STYLE 159 Blizzak LM-22 RFT/Summer: TBD 2004 X5 Steptronic/Alpine White/Grey Leather/Poplar Trim/Premium Package/Heated Seats/iPod Adapter
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03-08-2006, 05:24 PM	#5
BimmerSD Enlisted Member 5 Rep 48 Posts Drives: 2006 330i/Prem/Nav/Sp/20%tint Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: San Diego iTrader: (0)	Go with the 330i. The price difference if you go with sports package, and 18in wheels is relatively small and in my opinion well worth the additional HP you get with 330i for some reason e90s with 17" wheels or smaller hold very little appeal to me. __________________ 2006 330i/prem/sport/nav/manual/20%tint black stallion
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03-08-2006, 05:38 PM	#6
Tweak48 Private 2 Rep 64 Posts Drives: 2006 Electric Red 330i Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Seattle iTrader: (0)	I've been really happy with the red/black combo. Mine really doesn't show dirt much. Only washed it once in three weeks! Attached Images
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03-08-2006, 05:41 PM	#7
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 418 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	Don't know why I'm chiming in here, because this will certainly become a highly polarized thread. But here goes anyway: I have two 325's. I prefer the 325 to the 330 for a couple reasons. I like the better gas mileage of the 325 because I commute. Also, I can add a lot of the options that I like and keep the car about $5k cheaper than a 330 similarly equipped. If I did it again (and probably will in about 2-3 years) I'll get a 325 again and just add more options. That's my $.02 __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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03-08-2006, 09:10 PM	#11
David328M-Sport Brigadier General 101 Rep 3,566 Posts Drives: F30 M-Sport 328i Estoril Blue Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Melbourne Australia iTrader: (0)	For those of you fortunate people who live in the USA, you can buy an E90 for the lowest price on the planet! If very adequate performance is for you, then the 325 is for you, however, if that extra performance is for you, then the 330 is for you. You probably need to test drive each one and check for yourself if the extra money is worth spenmding if that is all it comes down to. Decisions, decisions. If only we had the same prices as you guys....... __________________ 328i M-Sport, Estoril Blue, Carbon XP 35 Tint, front heated seats, black Dakota, Sports Suspension, Anthracite Headliner, HUD, Pro Nav, Sunroof, hk 600w, Bi-Xenon, 19" 403M wheels, Reversing Camera, DAB+, Xenon, BT Ext Connect, MST turbo intake pipe, MST Cold Air Intake, JB4 on Map 2 with Catless DP produces awesome performance in Sport.
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03-08-2006, 10:15 PM	#13
CnoteMD Commander in Chief 37 Rep 1,034 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW 535i Join Date: May 2005 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 M5 [0.00] 2006 330i [0.00]	I would base the decision on if you plan on buying a heavily optioned car or not. There are many options on the 325i that are standard on the 330i. After adding a few things like xenon lights, logic7, etc the difference in price really starts to shrink. I have not driven a 325i, but people here say that the acceleration isn't too much slower than a 330i. Going by looks alone, I think the 325i with sport package looks better than a standard 330i (though 330i with sport package is definitely my favorite). Basically, if you are planning on relatively few options, a 325i may be the most cost effective choice. If you start adding on a lot of options, you might as well upgrade to the 330i. __________________ 2008 BMW 535i Space Gray, Black Leather, Dark Bamboo Trim\| Sport Automatic with Paddles \| Sport Package 2008 BMW M5 (gone, but not forgotten) Space Gray, Silverstone Merino Leather, Madeira Walnut Wood Trim \| 7speed SMG \| All options Mods: Corsa Exhaust \| RPI Ram Air Intake \| H&R Sport Springs \| Rogue Engineering 12mm spacers
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03-08-2006, 10:34 PM	#14
JOYRIIDE1113 Pirate 113 Rep 1,395 Posts Drives: Detailing Shark Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Miami-Kendall iTrader: (1)	Cool! I just figured the 330i would have slighly better milage, seeing as the intake and exhaust upgraded.
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03-09-2006, 12:19 AM	#15
tl_boy Major 83 Rep 1,329 Posts Drives: tl Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: houston iTrader: (0)	i'm a 325 owner and have this to ask: if you are concerned about the weight of the vehicles, are you not concerned about the hp difference? if the cost is almost the same, you should go for the 330. if the 18" are heavy, i doubt the 17" will be that much lighter.
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03-09-2006, 12:19 AM	#16
0700700 Major 81 Rep 1,055 Posts Drives: 745li / cls 55 Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: BG iTrader: (0)	go for 330i __________________ 2007 CLS55 AMG / 2003 BMW 745Li
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03-09-2006, 01:36 AM	#17
BMW F22 Major General 3566 Rep 9,788 Posts Drives: ///M235i Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Bay Area iTrader: (8)	wow this kind of threads have been discussed a thousand times. If it's like $30 diff. then go for a 330i. You mentioned similarly equipped. What does that mean?? Like a 325i with a few options vs a stripped 330i?? or a 330i with a few packages vs a 325i with a couple packages?? Basically it comes down to: if you want the standard options on the 330i, go with the 330i. If you can live without xenons, Logic7, power seats, chrome grills, exhaust pipes, larger brakes (only better for tracks), 40 additional HP and 35lbs ft torque, then by all means get the 325i. It's that simple.
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03-09-2006, 01:44 AM	#18
brian32e Second Lieutenant 16 Rep 273 Posts Drives: '06 Alpine White 330i ZSP Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: San Francisco, CA iTrader: (0)	get a 330 ZSP. unless you're going totally bare bones 325i (then it's a pretty nice deal at right around 30K) by the time you add ZSP, xenon, power seats, logic7 etc you're near 330 range. might as well get the bigger wheels and the extra 40HP. also this is probably just me but E90's just look weird without 18's. I love my 162's.
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03-09-2006, 01:46 AM	#19
Nikki Major General 990 Rep 6,381 Posts Drives: Sepang Z4MC Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: LA iTrader: (9)	unless you want basically a bone stock 325i, you may as well get the 330i. i priced out a 325i for my dad today and it came to $40k....so you may as well spend $42k and get the 330i, for the extra horsepower and standard features. __________________ Nikki
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03-09-2006, 03:12 AM	#20
lux.sh missing two turbos. 577 Rep 4,859 Posts Drives: fast around corners. Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Curves iTrader: (12) Garage List 2006 BMW E90 330i [0.00]	I just built my E90 325/330 with SAME exact option. Interesting how difference came down to EXACTLY $3000. So for the extra $3000 you spent, you get 40hp/35tq and 18" wheels. Obviously, if you want more performance out of the E90, you get the 330. If not, 325 is one for you. simple as that. __________________ 06 AW E90 330i ZPP/ZSP/Step/Expired Warranty : Prior Design Front : ACS Rear : ACS Roof : BlackLines : Simota Intake : Carbon Fiber Interior Trim : : MTEC V3 : 24% Charcoal : V1 Hardwired : Solaris Invisibulbs/LED interior :
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03-09-2006, 06:18 AM	#21
davinet78 Lieutenant Colonel 28 Rep 1,832 Posts Drives: bmw e90 320d Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: gibraltar(europe) iTrader: (0) Garage List 2005 bmw 320d E90 [0.00]	go for the 330 __________________ e90 320d,arktis,lumber support, hifi speaker, alarm, dakota beige, 162 18", xenon with washer spray,window chrome trimmings, professional radio, 6 cd changer wood trimmings 6 speed manual.
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03-09-2006, 10:43 AM	#22
ben1364 Captain 14 Rep 940 Posts Drives: E90 330iA Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Georgetown, TX iTrader: (0)	Ethirtynine asked, " Why are you so concerned about the weight of the wheels and tires?" Good question. The tire/wheel package makes a (sometimes) substantial difference in unsprung weight. To the company's credit, they have done a good job tuning the suspension for the heavier run flop tires, all things considered.
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