Considering an E90 - question re spec/speakers
Discussion
Morning all,
As per the title I'm considering an E90 325/330i in the next year or two (currently mid-lease and craving 6 cylinders next time).
I've been watching the market of these and in addition to prices being all over the place, good spec ones seem to go quickly.
From what I've worked out, my ideal spec would be the following:
- Auto 3.0 petrol
- SE trim without optional sport suspension (for comfort oriented ride)
- HiFi speaker system (as this looks to be the best foundation for improvements due to the DSP settings over the woeful stock system)
- Dark interior (ie carpets and dash - open to either black or grey seats)
No preference on post or pre LCI/paddles/idrive/seat heaters/sunroof really.
However, finding a decent model with spec like this as well as being in good nick looks to be a bit of a task as they're rare and they go quickly. To be expected I suppose as I'm not looking at the exponentially more popular diesels from at the time.
Auto trader is awash with bare specced models in both m sport (more likely to get a dark interior but sports tuned ride) and se trim.
So really, what sacrifices can I make? I've read about the alpine upgrade for non hifi models (though this involves tweeter panels, a bit of coding, and I wouldn't have the first idea on arranging the coding) and presumably I could swap m sport suspension with se suspension for a few hundred pounds. Seats can be swapped too etc. I'm also aware that I drive can be upgraded from the pre lci bottom of the ladder setup to the top level post lci setup (though don't think I drive can be added to a non I drive car?)
In summary - how much closer to desired spec (good stereo system, comfy ride) can I get from ordering a base spec car?
Ta
Michael
As per the title I'm considering an E90 325/330i in the next year or two (currently mid-lease and craving 6 cylinders next time).
I've been watching the market of these and in addition to prices being all over the place, good spec ones seem to go quickly.
From what I've worked out, my ideal spec would be the following:
- Auto 3.0 petrol
- SE trim without optional sport suspension (for comfort oriented ride)
- HiFi speaker system (as this looks to be the best foundation for improvements due to the DSP settings over the woeful stock system)
- Dark interior (ie carpets and dash - open to either black or grey seats)
No preference on post or pre LCI/paddles/idrive/seat heaters/sunroof really.
However, finding a decent model with spec like this as well as being in good nick looks to be a bit of a task as they're rare and they go quickly. To be expected I suppose as I'm not looking at the exponentially more popular diesels from at the time.
Auto trader is awash with bare specced models in both m sport (more likely to get a dark interior but sports tuned ride) and se trim.
So really, what sacrifices can I make? I've read about the alpine upgrade for non hifi models (though this involves tweeter panels, a bit of coding, and I wouldn't have the first idea on arranging the coding) and presumably I could swap m sport suspension with se suspension for a few hundred pounds. Seats can be swapped too etc. I'm also aware that I drive can be upgraded from the pre lci bottom of the ladder setup to the top level post lci setup (though don't think I drive can be added to a non I drive car?)
In summary - how much closer to desired spec (good stereo system, comfy ride) can I get from ordering a base spec car?
Ta
Michael
mholt1995 said:
Morning all,
As per the title I'm considering an E90 325/330i in the next year or two (currently mid-lease and craving 6 cylinders next time).
I've been watching the market of these and in addition to prices being all over the place, good spec ones seem to go quickly.
From what I've worked out, my ideal spec would be the following:
- Auto 3.0 petrol
- SE trim without optional sport suspension (for comfort oriented ride)
- HiFi speaker system (as this looks to be the best foundation for improvements due to the DSP settings over the woeful stock system)
- Dark interior (ie carpets and dash - open to either black or grey seats)
No preference on post or pre LCI/paddles/idrive/seat heaters/sunroof really.
However, finding a decent model with spec like this as well as being in good nick looks to be a bit of a task as they're rare and they go quickly. To be expected I suppose as I'm not looking at the exponentially more popular diesels from at the time.
Auto trader is awash with bare specced models in both m sport (more likely to get a dark interior but sports tuned ride) and se trim.
So really, what sacrifices can I make? I've read about the alpine upgrade for non hifi models (though this involves tweeter panels, a bit of coding, and I wouldn't have the first idea on arranging the coding) and presumably I could swap m sport suspension with se suspension for a few hundred pounds. Seats can be swapped too etc. I'm also aware that I drive can be upgraded from the pre lci bottom of the ladder setup to the top level post lci setup (though don't think I drive can be added to a non I drive car?)
In summary - how much closer to desired spec (good stereo system, comfy ride) can I get from ordering a base spec car?
Ta
Michael
I owned a pre LCI 335i coupe with DCT and the newer CIC iDrive. As per the title I'm considering an E90 325/330i in the next year or two (currently mid-lease and craving 6 cylinders next time).
I've been watching the market of these and in addition to prices being all over the place, good spec ones seem to go quickly.
From what I've worked out, my ideal spec would be the following:
- Auto 3.0 petrol
- SE trim without optional sport suspension (for comfort oriented ride)
- HiFi speaker system (as this looks to be the best foundation for improvements due to the DSP settings over the woeful stock system)
- Dark interior (ie carpets and dash - open to either black or grey seats)
No preference on post or pre LCI/paddles/idrive/seat heaters/sunroof really.
However, finding a decent model with spec like this as well as being in good nick looks to be a bit of a task as they're rare and they go quickly. To be expected I suppose as I'm not looking at the exponentially more popular diesels from at the time.
Auto trader is awash with bare specced models in both m sport (more likely to get a dark interior but sports tuned ride) and se trim.
So really, what sacrifices can I make? I've read about the alpine upgrade for non hifi models (though this involves tweeter panels, a bit of coding, and I wouldn't have the first idea on arranging the coding) and presumably I could swap m sport suspension with se suspension for a few hundred pounds. Seats can be swapped too etc. I'm also aware that I drive can be upgraded from the pre lci bottom of the ladder setup to the top level post lci setup (though don't think I drive can be added to a non I drive car?)
In summary - how much closer to desired spec (good stereo system, comfy ride) can I get from ordering a base spec car?
Ta
Michael
SE seats are not very supportive. Ride is wallowy. M sport on 19s with RFT's, horrible. But much better without RFTs and very comfortable on smaller wheels. I eventually had a 17s square set up and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. If you're going BMW, you want it to be fairly close to the 'ultimate driving machine' and SE's are way off. In any event, such are the age of the cars now you'd likely need a suspension refresh anyway, unless you go newer / low miles.
If you can stand the auto, as they're more plentiful, you might as well go for 330, you'll get more performance and I don't think there's much of a mpg detriment. early 325' s I think are 2.5 liters. There's a lot of threads about which iteration of 3 ltr engine is best, (n53 or N52) as I had the N54 I've never paid much attention. But worth a read.
CIC is better, but not much point (re: Nav) unless you update maps and get firmware update to get 7 digit postcode. Upgrades, I've heard quoted about 1500£ all in. Is it really worth if for old tech?
I had the individual audio, a 1400£ option. Ironically, I'm not much into music so wasted on me
But those in the know say it's the only one to really have. I've attached a thread, I've seen used when the different options are discussed in context of upgrading. Bear in mind, that besides iDrive I believe there were a few other upgrades related to audio/media. Maybe they came with the LCI? Full service history is key on these, often when they're discussed on these sort of forums there are elements missing.
There was a jade grey interior, that was nice. Not sure if that was an individual. But usually BMW greys look tired over time. Nothing wrong with black, I had it. But I also had a sunroof and that lightened the interior and compensated for fact no opening back windows.
However, you're after a saloon, I assume, if you mean E90 literally. Not sure they had Xenons as standard. or electric seats. or even folding back seats. All three options I find essential. For example, BMW non Xenon lights were dreadful on my E46 and I don't think they were much better on E90?
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35...
In a nutshell everything can be retrofitted, it just depends how deep your pockets are.
The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
M sport suspension is fine if you have non runflat tyres, so don't worry about that. It's not going to be like solid springs to floating on a cloud different.
Personally I'd be looking for a LCI car as they are generally improved elsewhere too (wider track, different buttons and switch placement to name a few)
Stereo wise, you'd be looking at £500-£1k to upgrade (you can get logic7 retrofits)
Idrive retrofit (from non specced model) is about another £1k
The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
M sport suspension is fine if you have non runflat tyres, so don't worry about that. It's not going to be like solid springs to floating on a cloud different.
Personally I'd be looking for a LCI car as they are generally improved elsewhere too (wider track, different buttons and switch placement to name a few)
Stereo wise, you'd be looking at £500-£1k to upgrade (you can get logic7 retrofits)
Idrive retrofit (from non specced model) is about another £1k
Smuler said:
I owned a pre LCI 335i coupe with DCT and the newer CIC iDrive.
SE seats are not very supportive. Ride is wallowy. M sport on 19s with RFT's, horrible. But much better without RFTs and very comfortable on smaller wheels. I eventually had a 17s square set up and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. If you're going BMW, you want it to be fairly close to the 'ultimate driving machine' and SE's are way off. In any event, such are the age of the cars now you'd likely need a suspension refresh anyway, unless you go newer / low miles.
If you can stand the auto, as they're more plentiful, you might as well go for 330, you'll get more performance and I don't think there's much of a mpg detriment. early 325' s I think are 2.5 liters. There's a lot of threads about which iteration of 3 ltr engine is best, (n53 or N52) as I had the N54 I've never paid much attention. But worth a read.
CIC is better, but not much point (re: Nav) unless you update maps and get firmware update to get 7 digit postcode. Upgrades, I've heard quoted about 1500£ all in. Is it really worth if for old tech?
I had the individual audio, a 1400£ option. Ironically, I'm not much into music so wasted on me But those in the know say it's the only one to really have. I've attached a thread, I've seen used when the different options are discussed in context of upgrading. Bear in mind, that besides iDrive I believe there were a few other upgrades related to audio/media. Maybe they came with the LCI?
Full service history is key on these, often when they're discussed on these sort of forums there are elements missing.
There was a jade grey interior, that was nice. Not sure if that was an individual. But usually BMW greys look tired over time. Nothing wrong with black, I had it. But I also had a sunroof and that lightened the interior and compensated for fact no opening back windows.
However, you're after a saloon, I assume, if you mean E90 literally. Not sure they had Xenons as standard. or electric seats. or even folding back seats. All three options I find essential. For example, BMW non Xenon lights were dreadful on my E46 and I don't think they were much better on E90?
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35...
The Bi-xenon adaptive lights are incredible. The non Bi-xenon ones not so much.SE seats are not very supportive. Ride is wallowy. M sport on 19s with RFT's, horrible. But much better without RFTs and very comfortable on smaller wheels. I eventually had a 17s square set up and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. If you're going BMW, you want it to be fairly close to the 'ultimate driving machine' and SE's are way off. In any event, such are the age of the cars now you'd likely need a suspension refresh anyway, unless you go newer / low miles.
If you can stand the auto, as they're more plentiful, you might as well go for 330, you'll get more performance and I don't think there's much of a mpg detriment. early 325' s I think are 2.5 liters. There's a lot of threads about which iteration of 3 ltr engine is best, (n53 or N52) as I had the N54 I've never paid much attention. But worth a read.
CIC is better, but not much point (re: Nav) unless you update maps and get firmware update to get 7 digit postcode. Upgrades, I've heard quoted about 1500£ all in. Is it really worth if for old tech?
I had the individual audio, a 1400£ option. Ironically, I'm not much into music so wasted on me
But those in the know say it's the only one to really have. I've attached a thread, I've seen used when the different options are discussed in context of upgrading. Bear in mind, that besides iDrive I believe there were a few other upgrades related to audio/media. Maybe they came with the LCI? Full service history is key on these, often when they're discussed on these sort of forums there are elements missing.
There was a jade grey interior, that was nice. Not sure if that was an individual. But usually BMW greys look tired over time. Nothing wrong with black, I had it. But I also had a sunroof and that lightened the interior and compensated for fact no opening back windows.
However, you're after a saloon, I assume, if you mean E90 literally. Not sure they had Xenons as standard. or electric seats. or even folding back seats. All three options I find essential. For example, BMW non Xenon lights were dreadful on my E46 and I don't think they were much better on E90?
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35...
Smuler said:
I owned a pre LCI 335i coupe with DCT and the newer CIC iDrive.
SE seats are not very supportive. Ride is wallowy. M sport on 19s with RFT's, horrible. But much better without RFTs and very comfortable on smaller wheels. I eventually had a 17s square set up and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. If you're going BMW, you want it to be fairly close to the 'ultimate driving machine' and SE's are way off. In any event, such are the age of the cars now you'd likely need a suspension refresh anyway, unless you go newer / low miles.
If you can stand the auto, as they're more plentiful, you might as well go for 330, you'll get more performance and I don't think there's much of a mpg detriment. early 325' s I think are 2.5 liters. There's a lot of threads about which iteration of 3 ltr engine is best, (n53 or N52) as I had the N54 I've never paid much attention. But worth a read.
CIC is better, but not much point (re: Nav) unless you update maps and get firmware update to get 7 digit postcode. Upgrades, I've heard quoted about 1500£ all in. Is it really worth if for old tech?
I had the individual audio, a 1400£ option. Ironically, I'm not much into music so wasted on me But those in the know say it's the only one to really have. I've attached a thread, I've seen used when the different options are discussed in context of upgrading. Bear in mind, that besides iDrive I believe there were a few other upgrades related to audio/media. Maybe they came with the LCI?
Full service history is key on these, often when they're discussed on these sort of forums there are elements missing.
There was a jade grey interior, that was nice. Not sure if that was an individual. But usually BMW greys look tired over time. Nothing wrong with black, I had it. But I also had a sunroof and that lightened the interior and compensated for fact no opening back windows.
However, you're after a saloon, I assume, if you mean E90 literally. Not sure they had Xenons as standard. or electric seats. or even folding back seats. All three options I find essential. For example, BMW non Xenon lights were dreadful on my E46 and I don't think they were much better on E90?
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35...
Thanks for this. From what you're saying about the seats I'll certainly open myself up to the possibility of a non-RFT equipped M-Sport with 17s or 18s.SE seats are not very supportive. Ride is wallowy. M sport on 19s with RFT's, horrible. But much better without RFTs and very comfortable on smaller wheels. I eventually had a 17s square set up and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. If you're going BMW, you want it to be fairly close to the 'ultimate driving machine' and SE's are way off. In any event, such are the age of the cars now you'd likely need a suspension refresh anyway, unless you go newer / low miles.
If you can stand the auto, as they're more plentiful, you might as well go for 330, you'll get more performance and I don't think there's much of a mpg detriment. early 325' s I think are 2.5 liters. There's a lot of threads about which iteration of 3 ltr engine is best, (n53 or N52) as I had the N54 I've never paid much attention. But worth a read.
CIC is better, but not much point (re: Nav) unless you update maps and get firmware update to get 7 digit postcode. Upgrades, I've heard quoted about 1500£ all in. Is it really worth if for old tech?
I had the individual audio, a 1400£ option. Ironically, I'm not much into music so wasted on me
But those in the know say it's the only one to really have. I've attached a thread, I've seen used when the different options are discussed in context of upgrading. Bear in mind, that besides iDrive I believe there were a few other upgrades related to audio/media. Maybe they came with the LCI? Full service history is key on these, often when they're discussed on these sort of forums there are elements missing.
There was a jade grey interior, that was nice. Not sure if that was an individual. But usually BMW greys look tired over time. Nothing wrong with black, I had it. But I also had a sunroof and that lightened the interior and compensated for fact no opening back windows.
However, you're after a saloon, I assume, if you mean E90 literally. Not sure they had Xenons as standard. or electric seats. or even folding back seats. All three options I find essential. For example, BMW non Xenon lights were dreadful on my E46 and I don't think they were much better on E90?
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35...
Ride/handling wise for context, I wasn't really that keen on the sport suspension+18" wheels on Ford Focus Mk2.5 titanium (though that might have been more due to it also having a pretty slow 1.8 engine, all show and bump, no go). Standard suspension and 15"s were great even though springs and rear trailing arm bushes were going. I'm currently in a B9 Audi A4 with comfort suspension and 17s, the ride is about right for me, albeit cornering can be a little lacking in confidence at times on back roads (rare I'm on those though)
I've read that thread before re the audio systems hence HiFi being the optimal one for me, though I wouldn't say no to a Logic/Individual if it were in budget.
Otherwise...
- 330 is the goal and auto is fine, even preferable. Recent experience has led to me getting fed up of changing my own gears in slow traffic.
- As mentioned earlier, iDrive isn't really crucial though tends to come with higher specced cars as a rule from what I've seen.
- FSH is crucial, I agree. As such, I'd rather open myself up so I'm not stuck with one with ideal spec but poor SH.
- Xenons/Electric seats aren't really crucial for me (though I do love the Xenons on my A4 due to lightness and responsiveness going between beams it must be said). Neither would make/break it for me. Folding back seats would be easily retrofit I imagine if I got hold of an interior with folding seats?
Dannbodge said:
In a nutshell everything can be retrofitted, it just depends how deep your pockets are.
The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
M sport suspension is fine if you have non runflat tyres, so don't worry about that. It's not going to be like solid springs to floating on a cloud different.
Personally I'd be looking for a LCI car as they are generally improved elsewhere too (wider track, different buttons and switch placement to name a few)
Stereo wise, you'd be looking at £500-£1k to upgrade (you can get logic7 retrofits)
Idrive retrofit (from non specced model) is about another £1k
Good to know in that case, I guess the issue is more finding someone capable and recommended to do it? The coding seems to be where people get hung up from what I've been reading.The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
M sport suspension is fine if you have non runflat tyres, so don't worry about that. It's not going to be like solid springs to floating on a cloud different.
Personally I'd be looking for a LCI car as they are generally improved elsewhere too (wider track, different buttons and switch placement to name a few)
Stereo wise, you'd be looking at £500-£1k to upgrade (you can get logic7 retrofits)
Idrive retrofit (from non specced model) is about another £1k
I'm not sure M sports would come with 17s. Thought I'm still in a coupe mindset so maybe they did on saloons.
And actually, this ad did mention 17 in
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
For me, with winter tires in mind I got a mint set second hand of 17s, I think style 158s
I had adaptive Xenon h/lights, so from what Dann says, given you're not bothered and I imagine adaptive are rare, scrub that.
I have a M3 now and on m3cutters there's a very well respected guy who does all the work on retrofits. I think his username is alpina527 but let me know and I'll check if needs be.
Have no idea on ease of retrofitting f/seats
I'm not an auto fan, so perhaps a bias against the six speed steptronic. I had a DCT but they're not available on any saloon.
And actually, this ad did mention 17 in
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
For me, with winter tires in mind I got a mint set second hand of 17s, I think style 158s
I had adaptive Xenon h/lights, so from what Dann says, given you're not bothered and I imagine adaptive are rare, scrub that.
I have a M3 now and on m3cutters there's a very well respected guy who does all the work on retrofits. I think his username is alpina527 but let me know and I'll check if needs be.
Have no idea on ease of retrofitting f/seats
I'm not an auto fan, so perhaps a bias against the six speed steptronic. I had a DCT but they're not available on any saloon.
Smuler said:
I'm not sure M sports would come with 17s. Thought I'm still in a coupe mindset so maybe they did on saloons.
And actually, this ad did mention 17 in
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
For me, with winter tires in mind I got a mint set second hand of 17s, I think style 158s
I had adaptive Xenon h/lights, so from what Dann says, given you're not bothered and I imagine adaptive are rare, scrub that.
I have a M3 now and on m3cutters there's a very well respected guy who does all the work on retrofits. I think his username is alpina527 but let me know and I'll check if needs be.
Have no idea on ease of retrofitting f/seats
I'm not an auto fan, so perhaps a bias against the six speed steptronic. I had a DCT but the they're not available on any saloon.
I'd likely be swapping whatever for Style 285s, didn't qualify the 17"s comment, apologies! Yeah I know the M sport are either 18 or 19.And actually, this ad did mention 17 in
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
For me, with winter tires in mind I got a mint set second hand of 17s, I think style 158s
I had adaptive Xenon h/lights, so from what Dann says, given you're not bothered and I imagine adaptive are rare, scrub that.
I have a M3 now and on m3cutters there's a very well respected guy who does all the work on retrofits. I think his username is alpina527 but let me know and I'll check if needs be.
Have no idea on ease of retrofitting f/seats
I'm not an auto fan, so perhaps a bias against the six speed steptronic. I had a DCT but the they're not available on any saloon.
For a bit more information, my lease isn't up until next December so I'd be looking at options from. Then and if the price is right extending the lease for a further year to give me more time to save whilst I'm under warranty with a maintenance contract.
Realistically it'll be a case of having £5-10k cash (for a fully sorted, not too leggy example inclusive of any work/retrofits required) to spend at the end of 2020/start of 2021. Long time away I know! So no rush on connecting me with someone knowledgable but it's certainly useful to know. Thanks a lot.
Actually having thought, I'd also be open to a coupe matching my requirements, just not an estate or convertible!
mholt1995 said:
I'd likely be swapping whatever for Style 285s, didn't qualify the 17"s comment, apologies! Yeah I know the M sport are either 18 or 19.
For a bit more information, my lease isn't up until next December so I'd be looking at options from. Then and if the price is right extending the lease for a further year to give me more time to save whilst I'm under warranty with a maintenance contract.
Realistically it'll be a case of having £5-10k cash (for a fully sorted, not too leggy example inclusive of any work/retrofits required) to spend at the end of 2020/start of 2021. Long time away I know! So no rush on connecting me with someone knowledgable but it's certainly useful to know. Thanks a lot.
Actually having thought, I'd also be open to a coupe matching my requirements, just not an estate or convertible!
Here's a thread mentioning , said retrofit. Bookmark your own thread and be ready for 2020 For a bit more information, my lease isn't up until next December so I'd be looking at options from. Then and if the price is right extending the lease for a further year to give me more time to save whilst I'm under warranty with a maintenance contract.
Realistically it'll be a case of having £5-10k cash (for a fully sorted, not too leggy example inclusive of any work/retrofits required) to spend at the end of 2020/start of 2021. Long time away I know! So no rush on connecting me with someone knowledgable but it's certainly useful to know. Thanks a lot.
Actually having thought, I'd also be open to a coupe matching my requirements, just not an estate or convertible!
http://forums.m3cutters.co.uk/showthread.php?t=191...
They're not that plentiful, so well smart starting to research well in advance as you'll probably have to act quickly to get a mint one.
BTW, I'm pretty sure they stopped making a 330i saloon in 2010 (2 years before run out of series) so that would cut down numbers.
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
330i coupes probably went to 2013
Now, if you were willing to go turbo straight six you could, with a coupe, get the DCT !
mholt1995 said:
Thanks for this. From what you're saying about the seats I'll certainly open myself up to the possibility of a non-RFT equipped M-Sport with 17s or 18s.
Ride/handling wise for context, I wasn't really that keen on the sport suspension+18" wheels on Ford Focus Mk2.5 titanium (though that might have been more due to it also having a pretty slow 1.8 engine, all show and bump, no go). Standard suspension and 15"s were great even though springs and rear trailing arm bushes were going. I'm currently in a B9 Audi A4 with comfort suspension and 17s, the ride is about right for me, albeit cornering can be a little lacking in confidence at times on back roads (rare I'm on those though)
I've read that thread before re the audio systems hence HiFi being the optimal one for me, though I wouldn't say no to a Logic/Individual if it were in budget.
Otherwise...
- 330 is the goal and auto is fine, even preferable. Recent experience has led to me getting fed up of changing my own gears in slow traffic.
- As mentioned earlier, iDrive isn't really crucial though tends to come with higher specced cars as a rule from what I've seen.
- FSH is crucial, I agree. As such, I'd rather open myself up so I'm not stuck with one with ideal spec but poor SH.
- Xenons/Electric seats aren't really crucial for me (though I do love the Xenons on my A4 due to lightness and responsiveness going between beams it must be said). Neither would make/break it for me. Folding back seats would be easily retrofit I imagine if I got hold of an interior with folding seats?
Very personal, but when I was looking for an E91 I was desperate to avoid the facelift - I don't need HPFP and Injector issues or need walnut blasting to cure coking-up issues. Ride/handling wise for context, I wasn't really that keen on the sport suspension+18" wheels on Ford Focus Mk2.5 titanium (though that might have been more due to it also having a pretty slow 1.8 engine, all show and bump, no go). Standard suspension and 15"s were great even though springs and rear trailing arm bushes were going. I'm currently in a B9 Audi A4 with comfort suspension and 17s, the ride is about right for me, albeit cornering can be a little lacking in confidence at times on back roads (rare I'm on those though)
I've read that thread before re the audio systems hence HiFi being the optimal one for me, though I wouldn't say no to a Logic/Individual if it were in budget.
Otherwise...
- 330 is the goal and auto is fine, even preferable. Recent experience has led to me getting fed up of changing my own gears in slow traffic.
- As mentioned earlier, iDrive isn't really crucial though tends to come with higher specced cars as a rule from what I've seen.
- FSH is crucial, I agree. As such, I'd rather open myself up so I'm not stuck with one with ideal spec but poor SH.
- Xenons/Electric seats aren't really crucial for me (though I do love the Xenons on my A4 due to lightness and responsiveness going between beams it must be said). Neither would make/break it for me. Folding back seats would be easily retrofit I imagine if I got hold of an interior with folding seats?
Dannbodge said:
In a nutshell everything can be retrofitted, it just depends how deep your pockets are.
The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
M sport suspension is fine if you have non runflat tyres, so don't worry about that. It's not going to be like solid springs to floating on a cloud different.
Personally I'd be looking for a LCI car as they are generally improved elsewhere too (wider track, different buttons and switch placement to name a few)
Stereo wise, you'd be looking at £500-£1k to upgrade (you can get logic7 retrofits)
Idrive retrofit (from non specced model) is about another £1k
Good to know in that case, I guess the issue is more finding someone capable and recommended to do it? The coding seems to be where people get hung up from what I've been reading.The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
M sport suspension is fine if you have non runflat tyres, so don't worry about that. It's not going to be like solid springs to floating on a cloud different.
Personally I'd be looking for a LCI car as they are generally improved elsewhere too (wider track, different buttons and switch placement to name a few)
Stereo wise, you'd be looking at £500-£1k to upgrade (you can get logic7 retrofits)
Idrive retrofit (from non specced model) is about another £1k
So I wanted the N52 engine rather than the later N53 POS.
Any E91, E92 or E93 will have split/fold rear seats, but on an E90 that was an option that most buyers didn't select.
E92/E93 also had electric memory seats as standard IIRC.
I've owned and driven a fair few E90's at different times (from brand new to buying one at 10 years old).
You are right in saying that prices are all over the place, but so are the condition of the cars. Also, given that even the newest models are 5+ years old now you need to go in with your eyes open.
If you're looking at the 6 cylinder petrol modes, it seems to me that far fewer Saloons and Estates (E90/91) were made than Coupes and Convertibles (E92/93) - the vast majority of the saloons are 4 cylinder diesels.
Engines - the advantage of an older, pre-lci car is that the non-turbo N52 engine is pretty bullet proof. Tends to be water pumps that fail and although not cheap (£300-500) it's relatively minor issue. They use port injection and so don't have high pressure pumps that fail and injectors don't tend to fail. Port injection also means you don't get carbon build up (which causes lumpy idle, error messages etc and is fixed with walnut blasting - £300-400)
Downsides of the N52 are limited to slightly poorer fuel economy and not much else as far as I can see. In the saloon the N52 was a 2.5L in the 325i and 3.0L in the 330i - the 330i has a much flatter torque curve than the 325i. In some ways I preferred the 325i as the urgency increases with revs, the 330i is easier to live with but you don't get the urgency past 4000 rpm.
The N53 that replaced it has a bit more power, but high pressure fuel pumps, injectors etc. If that's all been addressed and you mainly drive open roads and don't sit in town/traffic you might well be fine, but many have been stung by escalating costs diagnosing and replacing these items.
Gearbox - Auto is fine, but a bit 'slushy' compared with the new BMW 8 Speed ones and VW DSG etc. BMW state that it's a sealed item but the manufacturer recommends 100,000km servicing. The sump often leaks leading to fluid loss and a jerky change. Servicing can be between £250 and £600. On 2 of the autos I've owned they started to get a bit jerky at 70k miles.
Suspension - Not driven an SE older than 1 year so can't comment on older ones, but I found it quite wallowy. The M-Sport with run flat tyres was harsh/brittle feeling, but most will have normal tyres now due to the improved ride and costs.
In my experience once you hit about 70k the suspension is well past it's best and needs a refresh, along with some bushes/arms etc.
iDrive - the pre-LCI ones have the older iDrive which is rubbish and slow. Also doesn't do USB phone or music connectivity. The newer one is way better.
Based on running a few of these, I'd say that unless you can find a perfect example you may end up sinking a fair bit of cash into one if you want it to be perfect. Depending on your budget you might be better off looking at a LCI 335i with the N55 engine. They didn't seem to have the same carbon build up issues (some, but way less bad), seem more reliable, but still have a nice noise and plenty of torque. You'll still have the same gearbox/suspension challenges at some point.
For reference, our current family hack is a 335i Auto Estate. It's perfectly fine as a daily drive, but if it turns out to be a keeper I would want to:
Walnut Blast - £300
Gearbox Service - £400
Suspension Refresh, inc bushes and front arms - £600
OR
Birds B3 Suspension - £1900 plus arms and bushes
A lot to spend on a 12 year old 3-Series.
I should probably lease a Golf R Estate instead but there's a few things that I really like about the E90 platform that keep me coming back:
Steering - Hydraulic rather than Electric Systems (which I just can't get on with)
6 Cylinder Engine Smoothness and Noise
Chassis - when it's fresh it has just the right level of 'mobility' on the rear axle (fun on the road without needing to be going bonkers fast)
ETA - this one looks great apart from the lack of Xenons
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-56-BMW-330I-SPORT-...
You are right in saying that prices are all over the place, but so are the condition of the cars. Also, given that even the newest models are 5+ years old now you need to go in with your eyes open.
If you're looking at the 6 cylinder petrol modes, it seems to me that far fewer Saloons and Estates (E90/91) were made than Coupes and Convertibles (E92/93) - the vast majority of the saloons are 4 cylinder diesels.
Engines - the advantage of an older, pre-lci car is that the non-turbo N52 engine is pretty bullet proof. Tends to be water pumps that fail and although not cheap (£300-500) it's relatively minor issue. They use port injection and so don't have high pressure pumps that fail and injectors don't tend to fail. Port injection also means you don't get carbon build up (which causes lumpy idle, error messages etc and is fixed with walnut blasting - £300-400)
Downsides of the N52 are limited to slightly poorer fuel economy and not much else as far as I can see. In the saloon the N52 was a 2.5L in the 325i and 3.0L in the 330i - the 330i has a much flatter torque curve than the 325i. In some ways I preferred the 325i as the urgency increases with revs, the 330i is easier to live with but you don't get the urgency past 4000 rpm.
The N53 that replaced it has a bit more power, but high pressure fuel pumps, injectors etc. If that's all been addressed and you mainly drive open roads and don't sit in town/traffic you might well be fine, but many have been stung by escalating costs diagnosing and replacing these items.
Gearbox - Auto is fine, but a bit 'slushy' compared with the new BMW 8 Speed ones and VW DSG etc. BMW state that it's a sealed item but the manufacturer recommends 100,000km servicing. The sump often leaks leading to fluid loss and a jerky change. Servicing can be between £250 and £600. On 2 of the autos I've owned they started to get a bit jerky at 70k miles.
Suspension - Not driven an SE older than 1 year so can't comment on older ones, but I found it quite wallowy. The M-Sport with run flat tyres was harsh/brittle feeling, but most will have normal tyres now due to the improved ride and costs.
In my experience once you hit about 70k the suspension is well past it's best and needs a refresh, along with some bushes/arms etc.
iDrive - the pre-LCI ones have the older iDrive which is rubbish and slow. Also doesn't do USB phone or music connectivity. The newer one is way better.
Based on running a few of these, I'd say that unless you can find a perfect example you may end up sinking a fair bit of cash into one if you want it to be perfect. Depending on your budget you might be better off looking at a LCI 335i with the N55 engine. They didn't seem to have the same carbon build up issues (some, but way less bad), seem more reliable, but still have a nice noise and plenty of torque. You'll still have the same gearbox/suspension challenges at some point.
For reference, our current family hack is a 335i Auto Estate. It's perfectly fine as a daily drive, but if it turns out to be a keeper I would want to:
Walnut Blast - £300
Gearbox Service - £400
Suspension Refresh, inc bushes and front arms - £600
OR
Birds B3 Suspension - £1900 plus arms and bushes
A lot to spend on a 12 year old 3-Series.
I should probably lease a Golf R Estate instead but there's a few things that I really like about the E90 platform that keep me coming back:
Steering - Hydraulic rather than Electric Systems (which I just can't get on with)
6 Cylinder Engine Smoothness and Noise
Chassis - when it's fresh it has just the right level of 'mobility' on the rear axle (fun on the road without needing to be going bonkers fast)
ETA - this one looks great apart from the lack of Xenons
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-56-BMW-330I-SPORT-...
Edited by survivalist on Wednesday 12th September 21:27
survivalist said:
I've owned and driven a fair few E90's at different times (from brand new to buying one at 10 years old).
You are right in saying that prices are all over the place, but so are the condition of the cars. Also, given that even the newest models are 5+ years old now you need to go in with your eyes open.
If you're looking at the 6 cylinder petrol modes, it seems to me that far fewer Saloons and Estates (E90/91) were made than Coupes and Convertibles (E92/93) - the vast majority of the saloons are 4 cylinder diesels.
Engines - the advantage of an older, pre-lci car is that the non-turbo N52 engine is pretty bullet proof. Tends to be water pumps that fail and although not cheap (£300-500) it's relatively minor issue. They use port injection and so don't have high pressure pumps that fail and injectors don't tend to fail. Port injection also means you don't get carbon build up (which causes lumpy idle, error messages etc and is fixed with walnut blasting - £300-400)
Downsides of the N52 are limited to slightly poorer fuel economy and not much else as far as I can see. In the saloon the N52 was a 2.5L in the 325i and 3.0L in the 330i - the 330i has a much flatter torque curve than the 325i. In some ways I preferred the 325i as the urgency increases with revs, the 330i is easier to live with but you don't get the urgency past 4000 rpm.
The N53 that replaced it has a bit more power, but high pressure fuel pumps, injectors etc. If that's all been addressed and you mainly drive open roads and don't sit in town/traffic you might well be fine, but many have been stung by escalating costs diagnosing and replacing these items.
Gearbox - Auto is fine, but a bit 'slushy' compared with the new BMW 8 Speed ones and VW DSG etc. BMW state that it's a sealed item but the manufacturer recommends 100,000km servicing. The sump often leaks leading to fluid loss and a jerky change. Servicing can be between £250 and £600. On 2 of the autos I've owned they started to get a bit jerky at 70k miles.
Suspension - Not driven an SE older than 1 year so can't comment on older ones, but I found it quite wallowy. The M-Sport with run flat tyres was harsh/brittle feeling, but most will have normal tyres now due to the improved ride and costs.
In my experience once you hit about 70k the suspension is well past it's best and needs a refresh, along with some bushes/arms etc.
iDrive - the pre-LCI ones have the older iDrive which is rubbish and slow. Also doesn't do USB phone or music connectivity. The newer one is way better.
Based on running a few of these, I'd say that unless you can find a perfect example you may end up sinking a fair bit of cash into one if you want it to be perfect. Depending on your budget you might be better off looking at a LCI 335i with the N55 engine. They didn't seem to have the same carbon build up issues (some, but way less bad), seem more reliable, but still have a nice noise and plenty of torque. You'll still have the same gearbox/suspension challenges at some point.
For reference, our current family hack is a 335i Auto Estate. It's perfectly fine as a daily drive, but if it turns out to be a keeper I would want to:
Walnut Blast - £300
Gearbox Service - £400
Suspension Refresh, inc bushes and front arms - £600
OR
Birds B3 Suspension - £1900 plus arms and bushes
A lot to spend on a 12 year old 3-Series.
I should probably lease a Golf R Estate instead but there's a few things that I really like about the E90 platform that keep me coming back:
Steering - Hydraulic rather than Electric Systems (which I just can't get on with)
6 Cylinder Engine Smoothness and Noise
Chassis - when it's fresh it has just the right level of 'mobility' on the rear axle (fun on the road without needing to be going bonkers fast)
ETA - this one looks great apart from the lack of Xenons
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-56-BMW-330I-SPORT-...
Thanks- that ebay link is a perfect example! HiFi, heated leather, non black paintwork (currently suffering with a black car) and seemingly good history (though no reg number to check MOT). Higher version of the original Idrive too from the looks of it.You are right in saying that prices are all over the place, but so are the condition of the cars. Also, given that even the newest models are 5+ years old now you need to go in with your eyes open.
If you're looking at the 6 cylinder petrol modes, it seems to me that far fewer Saloons and Estates (E90/91) were made than Coupes and Convertibles (E92/93) - the vast majority of the saloons are 4 cylinder diesels.
Engines - the advantage of an older, pre-lci car is that the non-turbo N52 engine is pretty bullet proof. Tends to be water pumps that fail and although not cheap (£300-500) it's relatively minor issue. They use port injection and so don't have high pressure pumps that fail and injectors don't tend to fail. Port injection also means you don't get carbon build up (which causes lumpy idle, error messages etc and is fixed with walnut blasting - £300-400)
Downsides of the N52 are limited to slightly poorer fuel economy and not much else as far as I can see. In the saloon the N52 was a 2.5L in the 325i and 3.0L in the 330i - the 330i has a much flatter torque curve than the 325i. In some ways I preferred the 325i as the urgency increases with revs, the 330i is easier to live with but you don't get the urgency past 4000 rpm.
The N53 that replaced it has a bit more power, but high pressure fuel pumps, injectors etc. If that's all been addressed and you mainly drive open roads and don't sit in town/traffic you might well be fine, but many have been stung by escalating costs diagnosing and replacing these items.
Gearbox - Auto is fine, but a bit 'slushy' compared with the new BMW 8 Speed ones and VW DSG etc. BMW state that it's a sealed item but the manufacturer recommends 100,000km servicing. The sump often leaks leading to fluid loss and a jerky change. Servicing can be between £250 and £600. On 2 of the autos I've owned they started to get a bit jerky at 70k miles.
Suspension - Not driven an SE older than 1 year so can't comment on older ones, but I found it quite wallowy. The M-Sport with run flat tyres was harsh/brittle feeling, but most will have normal tyres now due to the improved ride and costs.
In my experience once you hit about 70k the suspension is well past it's best and needs a refresh, along with some bushes/arms etc.
iDrive - the pre-LCI ones have the older iDrive which is rubbish and slow. Also doesn't do USB phone or music connectivity. The newer one is way better.
Based on running a few of these, I'd say that unless you can find a perfect example you may end up sinking a fair bit of cash into one if you want it to be perfect. Depending on your budget you might be better off looking at a LCI 335i with the N55 engine. They didn't seem to have the same carbon build up issues (some, but way less bad), seem more reliable, but still have a nice noise and plenty of torque. You'll still have the same gearbox/suspension challenges at some point.
For reference, our current family hack is a 335i Auto Estate. It's perfectly fine as a daily drive, but if it turns out to be a keeper I would want to:
Walnut Blast - £300
Gearbox Service - £400
Suspension Refresh, inc bushes and front arms - £600
OR
Birds B3 Suspension - £1900 plus arms and bushes
A lot to spend on a 12 year old 3-Series.
I should probably lease a Golf R Estate instead but there's a few things that I really like about the E90 platform that keep me coming back:
Steering - Hydraulic rather than Electric Systems (which I just can't get on with)
6 Cylinder Engine Smoothness and Noise
Chassis - when it's fresh it has just the right level of 'mobility' on the rear axle (fun on the road without needing to be going bonkers fast)
ETA - this one looks great apart from the lack of Xenons
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-56-BMW-330I-SPORT-...
Edited by survivalist on Wednesday 12th September 21:27
Smaller wheels (285s) and non-RFTs would probably do the job! Shame I won't be buying for 18+ months! I'd set some search filters up but sellers don't seem to do a great deal of distinguishing between base and hifi audio. Anyone fancy buying it, lightly running it for a while and selling it back to me
mholt1995 said:
Anyone fancy buying it, lightly running it for a while and selling it back to me
I'll run it a bit for you if you buy it! 
Especially as the electric water pump in my E91 325i decided to die yesterday.
So it's now parked outside the mender's waiting to empty my wallet. Mine is an SE and although it is still on 17" run-flats I find the ride OK, while at the same time the handling isn't wallowy. I'm happy with that compromise, but it is a bit quiet unless you get it up past 5,000 rpm!
I've only got the standard BMW Professional stereo in mine but it's much better than the Professional stereo in the E46 I had previously. If you can tick the other boxes the stereo isn't too difficult to get upgraded.
Thankfully I do have heated seats - they were great when the Beast from the East arrived!
Just curious about why you would want a dark interior? I didn't mind black seats in my Imola Red E46, but my E91 is Sparkling Graphite so I was really pleased it had Lemon leather so there was some contrast.
Edited by Mr Tidy on Thursday 13th September 01:09
Mr Tidy said:
I'll run it a bit for you if you buy it!
Especially as the electric water pump in my E91 325i decided to die yesterday. So it's now parked outside the mender's waiting to empty my wallet.
Mine is an SE and although it is still on 17" run-flats I find the ride OK, while at the same time the handling isn't wallowy. I'm happy with that compromise, but it is a bit quiet unless you get it up past 5,000 rpm!
I've only got the standard BMW Professional stereo in mine but it's much better than the Professional stereo in the E46 I had previously. If you can tick the other boxes the stereo isn't too difficult to get upgraded.
Thankfully I do have heated seats - they were great when the Beast from the East arrived!
Just curious about why you would want a dark interior? I didn't mind black seats in my Imola Red E46, but my E91 is Sparkling Graphite so I was really pleased it had Lemon leather so there was some contrast.
If I was in a position to buy I probably would! If it was this time next year (or the year after) perhaps! Water pump definitely sounds like one to either check whether it's been done or budget to do.Especially as the electric water pump in my E91 325i decided to die yesterday.
So it's now parked outside the mender's waiting to empty my wallet. Mine is an SE and although it is still on 17" run-flats I find the ride OK, while at the same time the handling isn't wallowy. I'm happy with that compromise, but it is a bit quiet unless you get it up past 5,000 rpm!
I've only got the standard BMW Professional stereo in mine but it's much better than the Professional stereo in the E46 I had previously. If you can tick the other boxes the stereo isn't too difficult to get upgraded.
Thankfully I do have heated seats - they were great when the Beast from the East arrived!
Just curious about why you would want a dark interior? I didn't mind black seats in my Imola Red E46, but my E91 is Sparkling Graphite so I was really pleased it had Lemon leather so there was some contrast.
Edited by Mr Tidy on Thursday 13th September 01:09
As for interior colour, just personal preference really. I feel like a yellow interior would grate away at me and end up being a deal breaker sadly
I’m not keen on lemon , but wouldn’t let it put me off a Sparking Graphite colour. Stunning.
Friend of mine considered a coupe , sparkling graphite with the (I think it’s called) saddle brown interior. That was a brilliant combo.
I found the CITNOW video BMW sent her , the other day, and watched it
Sadly , whoever bought the car wrote it off !
Friend of mine considered a coupe , sparkling graphite with the (I think it’s called) saddle brown interior. That was a brilliant combo.
I found the CITNOW video BMW sent her , the other day, and watched it
Sadly , whoever bought the car wrote it off !
Dannbodge said:
The alpine upgrade isn't that great from what I've read (I was looking at a similar scenario)
I have the alpine upgrade, and I think it's great, the amplifier is actually driving the subs rather than them being tickled with a feather, and the new door speakers pack a punch. I had the basic system originally which was like listening to your phones loudspeaker on a packed train.I'm a fan of the E9x and have had a E90 330d(from 3 months old for 6 years), and a E90 330i(from 7 years old for 4 years)(Both M sport).Also had a E92 M3. I was fortunate that the water pump didn't fail on the 330i.
Both the 330d/330i were Auto's but I wasn't much of a fan of it, but I did feel it suited the 330d far better than the 330i. The manual gearbox isn't much cop either so you can't really win.
I had a E90 330d SE for a week and I found the seats pretty poor and I was sliding all over the place in the bends. I'm only a slim build and I think they work better if you're of a bigger build. I also prefer the M sport in the corners because the SE rolls a fair bit whereas the M sport is well planted.
The ride on the run flats isn't great on the M sport but that's easily remedied by swapping to normal tyres. Both my E90's were faultless and I rate them very highly as good all round cars.
Both the 330d/330i were Auto's but I wasn't much of a fan of it, but I did feel it suited the 330d far better than the 330i. The manual gearbox isn't much cop either so you can't really win.
I had a E90 330d SE for a week and I found the seats pretty poor and I was sliding all over the place in the bends. I'm only a slim build and I think they work better if you're of a bigger build. I also prefer the M sport in the corners because the SE rolls a fair bit whereas the M sport is well planted.
The ride on the run flats isn't great on the M sport but that's easily remedied by swapping to normal tyres. Both my E90's were faultless and I rate them very highly as good all round cars.
I just brought a 2005 E90 330i SE Auto with 66k miles last week with full BMW history and in excellent condition.
The car is dark blue so the lemon dakota interior makes a nice contrast. I have already done 300 miles on a mixture of country roads, motorway and town driving.
I previously owned an FN2 type R (with stiff suspension/chassis) and no body roll. Before that, a Mondeo ST220 which had compliant suspension but offered lots of grip and felt very planted especially on bumpy roads. The SE suspension on the E90 is actually quite good, it is not wallowy as others have said. You can lean on the tyres in the corners, and it wont be unsettled by bumpy A&B roads. I have also owned an E46 320d M Sport, and the suspension on that made it crashy on all but smooth roads. I do not really rate BMW's M Sport Suspension for UK roads. The SE suspension is much more suited to our roads and it means the tyres will be gripping the tarmac rather than skitting across it.
Other than that, the auto box is fine for relaxed driving, but the box does need time to catch up when you put your foot down to make progress. The DS mode is better as it holds the gear longer. I am not going to get the rifle bolt shifts of the Type R, but then this is different type of car.
The road noise is remarkably low (lower than any car I have been in). The standard seats are perfectly fine and supportive. Admittedly, I have not driven the car at 10/10ths, but so far they have kept me in place on the country road bends. They have good lumbar support and my back was good after almost 3 hours of non-stop driving.
The engine is smooth and tractable. It is very free revving. It makes a nice noise, though not as good as the V6 in the ST220. It is as economical as the Type R. I think the N52 engine makes the car quite special, and the way it just gains revs tells you that you are in something special.
Steering is nice and precise being hydraulic and it has weight to it, reminiscent of more old school cars. At slow speeds, it even feels heavy, although I may have been spoiled by the electric steering in the Type R, which was always pretty light.
The standard Xenons are good, but I cant compare to any other cars, as this is the first one I have with them. Full beam really lights up the road. Standard stereo not good if you like music, fine otherwise. Bluetooth for phone works well, and iDrive is functional and easy to use.
Admittedly, I was not looking for a 330i. I just wanted a powerful, but comfortable saloon car and would have considered any marque/model. This one came up locally and was well looked after, and I managed to get it for under 5k.
Hope this helps somewhat.
The car is dark blue so the lemon dakota interior makes a nice contrast. I have already done 300 miles on a mixture of country roads, motorway and town driving.
I previously owned an FN2 type R (with stiff suspension/chassis) and no body roll. Before that, a Mondeo ST220 which had compliant suspension but offered lots of grip and felt very planted especially on bumpy roads. The SE suspension on the E90 is actually quite good, it is not wallowy as others have said. You can lean on the tyres in the corners, and it wont be unsettled by bumpy A&B roads. I have also owned an E46 320d M Sport, and the suspension on that made it crashy on all but smooth roads. I do not really rate BMW's M Sport Suspension for UK roads. The SE suspension is much more suited to our roads and it means the tyres will be gripping the tarmac rather than skitting across it.
Other than that, the auto box is fine for relaxed driving, but the box does need time to catch up when you put your foot down to make progress. The DS mode is better as it holds the gear longer. I am not going to get the rifle bolt shifts of the Type R, but then this is different type of car.
The road noise is remarkably low (lower than any car I have been in). The standard seats are perfectly fine and supportive. Admittedly, I have not driven the car at 10/10ths, but so far they have kept me in place on the country road bends. They have good lumbar support and my back was good after almost 3 hours of non-stop driving.
The engine is smooth and tractable. It is very free revving. It makes a nice noise, though not as good as the V6 in the ST220. It is as economical as the Type R. I think the N52 engine makes the car quite special, and the way it just gains revs tells you that you are in something special.
Steering is nice and precise being hydraulic and it has weight to it, reminiscent of more old school cars. At slow speeds, it even feels heavy, although I may have been spoiled by the electric steering in the Type R, which was always pretty light.
The standard Xenons are good, but I cant compare to any other cars, as this is the first one I have with them. Full beam really lights up the road. Standard stereo not good if you like music, fine otherwise. Bluetooth for phone works well, and iDrive is functional and easy to use.
Admittedly, I was not looking for a 330i. I just wanted a powerful, but comfortable saloon car and would have considered any marque/model. This one came up locally and was well looked after, and I managed to get it for under 5k.
Hope this helps somewhat.
JimClark49 said:
The engine is smooth and tractable. It is very free revving. It makes a nice noise, though not as good as the V6 in the ST220. It is as economical as the Type R. I think the N52 engine makes the car quite special, and the way it just gains revs tells you that you are in something special.
Steering is nice and precise being hydraulic and it has weight to it, reminiscent of more old school cars. At slow speeds, it even feels heavy, although I may have been spoiled by the electric steering in the Type R, which was always pretty light.
Agree with both points, and I also much preferred the noise my V6 Mondeos made over the N52 in the 330i. The hydraulic steering is a breath of fresh air too, especially now almost all cars have gone electric. Steering is nice and precise being hydraulic and it has weight to it, reminiscent of more old school cars. At slow speeds, it even feels heavy, although I may have been spoiled by the electric steering in the Type R, which was always pretty light.
cerb4.5lee said:
Agree with both points, and I also much preferred the noise my V6 Mondeos made over the N52 in the 330i. The hydraulic steering is a breath of fresh air too, especially now almost all cars have gone electric.
I'm a big fan of the hydraulic PAS too. As for noise, I've never had an ST220 so cannot comment on that comparison.
But BMW seem to have deliberately silenced the N52 in the E9* models. My Z4 Coupe has an N52, but a previous owner had a custom cat-back system made for it and it sounds fantastic! There is a good noise in there, but sadly BMW stifled it.
Gassing Station | BMW General | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff