325i or 330i?

ap1994 · 10-24-2005, 08:23 PM

Im purchasing a new car in the next 1-2 months. This would be my first BMW. Im looking at the following:
Option #1 325i-sparkling graphite metallic paint w/black leatherette
Options:
Sport package, Xenon headlights, Comfort access, Heated seats, Navi

Option #2 330i-sparkling graphite metallic paint w/Black leatherette
Options:
Comfort access, Heated seats
Ive test driven both and im leaning towards more power and less gadgetry as I felt the difference? Any ideas from the experts?

Also, I was looking at both a lease and purchase. If I was to lease I want to calculate the payment myself. If we used the list price of $38,970 I came up with a payment of $563 excluding tax using the latest BMW money factors and residuals. Is this right?

Thanks,
Andy

theclay · 10-24-2005, 08:33 PM

Get what you can afford. Both are nice cars (I like the 330 better but I am biased).

My two cents= don't lease, buy it.

JonnyCrash · 10-24-2005, 08:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ap1994

Im purchasing a new car in the next 1-2 months. This would be my first BMW. Im looking at the following:
Option #1 325i-sparkling graphite metallic paint w/black leatherette
Options:
Sport package, Xenon headlights, Comfort access, Heated seats, Navi

Option #2 330i-sparkling graphite metallic paint w/Black leatherette
Options:
Comfort access, Heated seats
Ive test driven both and im leaning towards more power and less gadgetry as I felt the difference? Any ideas from the experts?

Also, I was looking at both a lease and purchase. If I was to lease I want to calculate the payment myself. If we used the list price of $38,970 I came up with a payment of $563 excluding tax using the latest BMW money factors and residuals. Is this right?

Thanks,
Andy

Andy,

First, if you have to lease, see if you can get an outside lease company to provide the financing, since you'll likely get a much better deal. Second, I would go for the 330 configuration you described, although if xenons aren't standard in the USA I would get those instead of comfort access.

Good luck with your decision!

ap1994 · 10-24-2005, 08:43 PM

Xenons are standard. For leasing ive looked around and I cant seem to get a better deal. For purchase, I struggle with putting money down on a heavily depcreciating asset. Im thinking lease and invest my money elsewhere, but the purpose of this thread is really which is the better machine?

Like I said I thought I could tell the difference (maybe it was psychological). I love the sport package, but 18" rims on the 330i in CT would kill me in the winters (rims and tires need to be purchasd plus poor tread life on 18" rims).

Andy

Thumpzilla · 10-24-2005, 10:51 PM

Andy,

I feel for you man, just went through the same agony.

325 has plenty of power, heck where can you drive these cars to their limits in the NE, ummmm mostly nowhere.

330i IMHO is great if you love options and that additional power, you do notice it above 50mph..no question. 330i Sounds throatier? too.

The sp/162's rims on the 330i do look the best, but being in the NE, man cold weather+moisture= potholes

and sp tires are ok for 5 or 6 months around here. Not good if it's your only ride IMO.

I can tell you already that I would be out a tire and a rim the first 5 days I drove the car if I had the 162's. 162's do look GREAT but in the northeast, ya gonna pay some how, whether it be buy a set of snows or a new rim and a performance tire if you meet Mr. Pothole.

I got a 330xi and love it. 325 or 330, your gonna love the car. .

Most members on this board are great, be prepared to spend hours on this board, it should be called E90crack.

I started as you did, asking questions. 8 weeks later and lots of $$$$$. I have my dream car. Goodluck,

THUMP

ap1994 · 10-25-2005, 06:06 AM

The sport package is definitely out if I go with the 330i. I like the idea of a throatier sound. I think im going with the 330i.

I guess an easier question is which color? Im thinking either sapphire metallic, sparkling graphite, or silver metallic. Any thoughts?

I have gone back and forth about iDrive. Is it any good? Do I lose any functionality if I dont get it?

theclay · 10-25-2005, 08:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ap1994

The sport package is definitely out if I go with the 330i. I like the idea of a throatier sound. I think im going with the 330i.

I guess an easier question is which color? Im thinking either sapphire metallic, sparkling graphite, or silver metallic. Any thoughts?

I have gone back and forth about iDrive. Is it any good? Do I lose any functionality if I dont get it?

Most people here will agree when I say sport package is more important than iDrive or comfort access. Don't worry about options like that unless you have the extra cash.
I could have afforded iDrive and I passed on it. No regrets here.

Bimmer_2 · 10-25-2005, 09:53 AM

I would prefer, Jet Black (no cost option), PP, SP and 6 speed, and skip all other non-essential costly option (like active steering, comfort access, ... etc.). This will keep the cost down.

Sho · 10-25-2005, 10:06 AM

Get what you can afford. There is a $6000 gap between a 325i and 330i with same options.
I have a 325i, and the power is enough for me. It is a commuter.

ap1994 · 10-25-2005, 11:08 AM

I can afford either. I was asking the age old question, is the extra performance worth it? I love the sports package especially the seats, but I cant invest in 18" rims in CT. Just doesnt make sense with our winters and terrible road conditions. Maybe the question should be do I go with the 325i sports vs 330i no sport?

I have no interest in the PP with the exception of bluetooth, but I dont even have a bluetooth phone yet.
Andy

Bimmer_2 · 10-25-2005, 12:56 PM

I have been comparing 325 and 330 and found out that they are only $3000 difference if you compared them with compatible equipped options (like 325: PP, SP, Logic 7 & Adaptive Xenon $38,095; 330: PP,SP $41095). The $3000 gives you 18" wheel, larger brake and 40 hp, and to some people that it is worth the extra dollar. To me, it definitely worth the extra dollar.

Thumpzilla · 10-25-2005, 03:23 PM

Nav is nav..works ok and I love it, but that's just me.
A lot of features the Nav alloes you to do are cool, but not necessary.

CA is the best feature, It's great just keeping the fob in my pocket. After a couple of days with it, I can't imagine the car with out it, but that's just me.

18' wheels in the Northeast is just not an option as you said. I would rather have the 330i no sports over the 325 w sp. You get a lot more included in the package, but you pay for it. Since when is saving Money and getting more horsepower in a BMW a likely outcome

It's tough I know..

Thump

stressdoc · 10-25-2005, 03:35 PM

I think the sports package is a must for either 325 or 330. I would opt for the 330 w/ ZSP and get a set of winter tires and 17" rims for winter. The difference btw 17s and 18s is not that huge in terms of stress resistance. The seats, steering wheel, and suspension w/ZSP are much, much better IMO.

ap1994 · 10-25-2005, 04:08 PM

How much are tires and rims for the winter? How many miles can I get on 18" rims?
Andy

stressdoc · 10-25-2005, 06:12 PM

Search the winter tire threads. Or just go to Tire Rack and see what you like. I think $1200 for wheels and Dunlop M3s, which you get back at resale and saving wear&tear on the summer tires. Good Q about the life of the RFs, 18" vs. 17". I would guess about 20-30k miles for summer performance 18"; 5k more on 17" and AS. Any data from the high mileage kings yet on tire wear? What do the reps at TireRack say about wear?

Wolf359 · 10-25-2005, 09:34 PM

Went with the 325i, sport package is much more my thing than power seats (Sport seats are gorgeous)!

ap1994 · 10-26-2005, 12:10 PM

Like I mentioned I love the sports seats, but not the 18" rims for CT winters. I dont want to buy rims and snow tires although I love the look of the tires.
I decided that im going to get a 330i with metallic paint, heated seats, comfort access, sat prep and (possibly i-drive).
Andy

chazmtb · 10-26-2005, 12:18 PM

Go with the 330 with sport package. Pick up a set of used 17 and put snows on (look for some used ones for under 600). Swap out the sport tires in the winter. I wouldn't drive a rwd car in the CT winter without winter tires.

ap1994 · 10-26-2005, 12:21 PM

I will buy snows, but dont want to buy rims. I am not ordering for a few days so ill think about it.

natalia · 10-26-2005, 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ap1994

I will buy snows, but dont want to buy rims. I am not ordering for a few days so ill think about it.

So you decided against the sports package...

ap1994 · 10-26-2005, 12:35 PM

Right now im leaning towards no sports package. Saves me the cost of the sports package plus rims. I will buy snows whether or not I get the sports package.

natalia · 10-26-2005, 12:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ap1994

Right now im leaning towards no sports package. Saves me the cost of the sports package plus rims. I will buy snows whether or not I get the sports package.

Yeah...i'm also debating on sports.

10-24-2005, 08:23 PM	#1
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	325i or 330i? Im purchasing a new car in the next 1-2 months. This would be my first BMW. Im looking at the following: Option #1 325i-sparkling graphite metallic paint w/black leatherette Options: Sport package, Xenon headlights, Comfort access, Heated seats, Navi Option #2 330i-sparkling graphite metallic paint w/Black leatherette Options: Comfort access, Heated seats Ive test driven both and im leaning towards more power and less gadgetry as I felt the difference? Any ideas from the experts? Also, I was looking at both a lease and purchase. If I was to lease I want to calculate the payment myself. If we used the list price of $38,970 I came up with a payment of $563 excluding tax using the latest BMW money factors and residuals. Is this right? Thanks, Andy
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10-24-2005, 08:33 PM	#2
theclay Lieutenant 20 Rep 510 Posts Drives: '06 330i Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Los Angeles, Ca. iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 330i [0.00]	Get what you can afford. Both are nice cars (I like the 330 better but I am biased). My two cents= don't lease, buy it. __________________ Jet Black, Black Leather, Aluminum Trim, Sport, Premium, Steptronic, 35% tint
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10-24-2005, 08:43 PM	#4
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	Xenons are standard. For leasing ive looked around and I cant seem to get a better deal. For purchase, I struggle with putting money down on a heavily depcreciating asset. Im thinking lease and invest my money elsewhere, but the purpose of this thread is really which is the better machine? Like I said I thought I could tell the difference (maybe it was psychological). I love the sport package, but 18" rims on the 330i in CT would kill me in the winters (rims and tires need to be purchasd plus poor tread life on 18" rims). Andy
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10-24-2005, 10:51 PM	#5
Thumpzilla Private 2 Rep 66 Posts Drives: 330xi/06/Loaded!! Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: NewJersey iTrader: (0)	Andy, I feel for you man, just went through the same agony. 325 has plenty of power, heck where can you drive these cars to their limits in the NE, ummmm mostly nowhere. 330i IMHO is great if you love options and that additional power, you do notice it above 50mph..no question. 330i Sounds throatier? too. The sp/162's rims on the 330i do look the best, but being in the NE, man cold weather+moisture= potholes and sp tires are ok for 5 or 6 months around here. Not good if it's your only ride IMO. I can tell you already that I would be out a tire and a rim the first 5 days I drove the car if I had the 162's. 162's do look GREAT but in the northeast, ya gonna pay some how, whether it be buy a set of snows or a new rim and a performance tire if you meet Mr. Pothole. I got a 330xi and love it. 325 or 330, your gonna love the car. . Most members on this board are great, be prepared to spend hours on this board, it should be called E90crack. I started as you did, asking questions. 8 weeks later and lots of $$$$$. I have my dream car. Goodluck, THUMP
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10-25-2005, 06:06 AM	#6
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	The sport package is definitely out if I go with the 330i. I like the idea of a throatier sound. I think im going with the 330i. I guess an easier question is which color? Im thinking either sapphire metallic, sparkling graphite, or silver metallic. Any thoughts? I have gone back and forth about iDrive. Is it any good? Do I lose any functionality if I dont get it?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-25-2005, 09:53 AM	#8
Bimmer_2 Private 3 Rep 74 Posts Drives: BMW 330i Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	I would prefer, Jet Black (no cost option), PP, SP and 6 speed, and skip all other non-essential costly option (like active steering, comfort access, ... etc.). This will keep the cost down.
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10-25-2005, 10:06 AM	#9
Sho Lieutenant 35 Rep 574 Posts Drives: E90 325i 6-speed Join Date: May 2005 Location: WA iTrader: (0)	Get what you can afford. There is a $6000 gap between a 325i and 330i with same options. I have a 325i, and the power is enough for me. It is a commuter. __________________ 2006 325i Sport - SSR GT7, Euro tails, Rogue Ikon muffler/w custom 3.5" piping, Painted OEM Splitters 2005 Toyota Matrix - Commuter
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10-25-2005, 11:08 AM	#10
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	I can afford either. I was asking the age old question, is the extra performance worth it? I love the sports package especially the seats, but I cant invest in 18" rims in CT. Just doesnt make sense with our winters and terrible road conditions. Maybe the question should be do I go with the 325i sports vs 330i no sport? I have no interest in the PP with the exception of bluetooth, but I dont even have a bluetooth phone yet. Andy
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10-25-2005, 12:56 PM	#11
Bimmer_2 Private 3 Rep 74 Posts Drives: BMW 330i Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	I have been comparing 325 and 330 and found out that they are only $3000 difference if you compared them with compatible equipped options (like 325: PP, SP, Logic 7 & Adaptive Xenon $38,095; 330: PP,SP $41095). The $3000 gives you 18" wheel, larger brake and 40 hp, and to some people that it is worth the extra dollar. To me, it definitely worth the extra dollar.
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10-25-2005, 03:23 PM	#12
Thumpzilla Private 2 Rep 66 Posts Drives: 330xi/06/Loaded!! Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: NewJersey iTrader: (0)	Nav is nav..works ok and I love it, but that's just me. A lot of features the Nav alloes you to do are cool, but not necessary. CA is the best feature, It's great just keeping the fob in my pocket. After a couple of days with it, I can't imagine the car with out it, but that's just me. 18' wheels in the Northeast is just not an option as you said. I would rather have the 330i no sports over the 325 w sp. You get a lot more included in the package, but you pay for it. Since when is saving Money and getting more horsepower in a BMW a likely outcome It's tough I know.. Thump
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10-25-2005, 03:35 PM	#13
stressdoc Moderator 618 Rep 10,855 Posts Drives: BMW i8; Toy 4runner TRD pro Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Waco TX iTrader: (0)	I think the sports package is a must for either 325 or 330. I would opt for the 330 w/ ZSP and get a set of winter tires and 17" rims for winter. The difference btw 17s and 18s is not that huge in terms of stress resistance. The seats, steering wheel, and suspension w/ZSP are much, much better IMO.
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10-25-2005, 04:08 PM	#14
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	How much are tires and rims for the winter? How many miles can I get on 18" rims? Andy
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10-25-2005, 06:12 PM	#15
stressdoc Moderator 618 Rep 10,855 Posts Drives: BMW i8; Toy 4runner TRD pro Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Waco TX iTrader: (0)	Search the winter tire threads. Or just go to Tire Rack and see what you like. I think $1200 for wheels and Dunlop M3s, which you get back at resale and saving wear&tear on the summer tires. Good Q about the life of the RFs, 18" vs. 17". I would guess about 20-30k miles for summer performance 18"; 5k more on 17" and AS. Any data from the high mileage kings yet on tire wear? What do the reps at TireRack say about wear?
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10-25-2005, 09:34 PM	#16
Wolf359 Captain 12 Rep 942 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 325i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Canada iTrader: (0)	Went with the 325i, sport package is much more my thing than power seats (Sport seats are gorgeous)!
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10-26-2005, 12:10 PM	#17
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	Like I mentioned I love the sports seats, but not the 18" rims for CT winters. I dont want to buy rims and snow tires although I love the look of the tires. I decided that im going to get a 330i with metallic paint, heated seats, comfort access, sat prep and (possibly i-drive). Andy
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10-26-2005, 12:18 PM	#18
chazmtb Private First Class 9 Rep 171 Posts Drives: 2011 X5D Join Date: May 2005 Location: Windermere, FL iTrader: (0)	Go with the 330 with sport package. Pick up a set of used 17 and put snows on (look for some used ones for under 600). Swap out the sport tires in the winter. I wouldn't drive a rwd car in the CT winter without winter tires.
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10-26-2005, 12:21 PM	#19
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	I will buy snows, but dont want to buy rims. I am not ordering for a few days so ill think about it.
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10-26-2005, 12:35 PM	#21
ap1994 Private 7 Rep 93 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 330i Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Middlebury, CT iTrader: (0)	Right now im leaning towards no sports package. Saves me the cost of the sports package plus rims. I will buy snows whether or not I get the sports package.
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