Topic: 01/02 MB C230 vs 01/02 BMW 3 Series

[Giant Dwarf]

The convertibles may be different.  

Comparing 320 and 325 to 330, the chrome trim around the windows and on the grille is only on the pricier models.  

Audi did the same thing with the 1.8T versus the 3.0 up until the current generation (now the 2.0T also has the shiny bits).

[tpl]

for e46 sedans in North America  the 325 and 330 are the "mainstream" cars.  323 and 320 are Canadian price line cars and could be avoided...as jeff says...convertibles are different.  They are loosely based on the coupe platform not the sedan platform.
And that is another point Croat: Coupes are rarer, more expensive but have the "sport" stuff as standard in most years... they also have less headroom!

[johngenx]

For the new cars, I'd NEVER pony up for the 330.  The premium over the 320/325/etc. is way too much.  BUT, in the used market, things work against the 330 owner.  330 prices are much closer to 325/320 prices.

For that reason, I'd search for the 330 version.  The only way I'd buy a used 320 model is if I got it VERY cheap with the gap between the 320 and 330 being more than when it was new.  That is unlikely, but could happen.

The other thing to consider is the car.  A beat-on 330 is a loser compared to a pristine, cared-for 320 no matter the options and cache.  This means some searching might be required.  Teen driver in the home?  I won't buy your car.  Sorry to all the super-responsible parents, but I see WAY too many folks letting their teen beat the crap out of their $60K car/SUV.

But, what about a lease return?  That's a bit more trouble, but can be a safe bet if you play your cards right.  A very careful inspection (yes, even on warranty cars) can tell you lots about the PO and the treatment the car recieved.  Premium lease-returns like BMW's often have service records and warranty-claim lists.

[323eye]

This is what i got a month ago.With only 5K,I guess i just got lucky to snipe this one before the '06 model came out in full swing.Heated seats,computer,moonroof,Inline-6 Steptronic,RFT.....more to list.THe horses are enough and suffice for what i need these days to run amok about.If you stay patient you'll spot one somewhere/sometime.Am quite happy and content to what this 3 series is all about,plus i love the way the E46 looks compare to the latter...which im sure i could grow into one day.But for now this is noticeably a BIMMER at its best.My next would be an M3.Good Luck ya all!!



Cheers!!

[Bullet Blue]

Two posts in and he's already posting pics. Cool! 

[323eye]

Sorry Brother !! Im just a newbie here and still kinda excited still with my newfound steel??? LOL!!!I'll tone it down next time.Coming from a Honda/Acura/Infinity is a bif change specially driving FWD for quite sometime.Missed driving my '80s RWD Camaros and Mustangs back then,so i guess im just a mere bit enthuzed about my new Bimmer.

Cheers !!

[tortoise]

No worries.. Post as many photos as you can.

Typically it's like pulling teeth to get photos.

[wing]

Welcome to the forum, post pics if you wish, go ahead and post them in the reader's rides section

[Bullet Blue]

I wasn't saying it was a bad thing. In fact I'd like to see more pics if you've got em 

[323eye]

Thanks for the warm welcome fella's.Ain't it a grand to be able to make your ride a little diff from time to time.What do you fella's think about this style of wheels intead of the other.

Style 42 OEM:

Before:

After:

I kinda like 'em both...i guess one one set will have to be for winters only??

Cheers !!

[Bullet Blue]

Hmm, that's a tough decision. I like the original alloys, but there's something about the OEM's that give it that classic BMW look. Perhaps use one set for winter and another for summer? 

Oh and welcome to the forum by the way, and cool 323i. Good choice