[ItalyBMW325]

Originally Posted by RPM90

Yes, exactly for that less than a second. People spend hundreds if not thousands just to get an increase of less than a second.
And, if you're in the 1/4 mile the increase is even greater.
If you now start talking acceleration past 60mph and into 90, or 100, or 120mph the 330 is second's not just a second faster.
If you measure a cars worth by only it's 0-60 time, you're really missing the performance boat as it sailed away some time ago.

T

Last time I checked the E90 was not one of the cars people are spending THOUSANDS on for less then a second. If I recall the 1/4 mile times were not that different either.

The E90 is a smooth riding machine. If he wants high performance speed get something else. My Lightning will beat a 325 and 330 in 1/4 mile. Hell it will beat a Vette to (not z06). The point is there is not big difference to say "its not enough try the 330". Thats straight comical.

Bottom line is is it enough for you. You cant ask anyone here as what we deem is enoungh may not be enough for you. My 325 is plenty and I have a Lightning which is faster than a 330.

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by Mario1235

also wasnt ever trying to compare the 325 to 330 just wanted to find out the info on the 325, i have no intention of buying the 330, if i was ever gonna go with the 330 i would get the lexus is350

Ok, that makes it much more perfectly easier to confuse the issue.
I say you should go with the IS350.

T

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by ItalyBMW325

Last time I checked the E90 was not one of the cars people are spending THOUSANDS on for less then a second. If I recall the 1/4 mile times were not that different either.

The E90 is a smooth riding machine. If he wants high performance speed get something else. My Lightning will beat a 325 and 330 in 1/4 mile. Hell it will beat a Vette to (not z06). The point is there is not big difference to say "its not enough try the 330". Thats straight comical.

Bottom line is is it enough for you. You cant ask anyone here as what we deem is enoungh may not be enough for you. My 325 is plenty and I have a Lightning which is faster than a 330.

None of that is what I was responding to initially.
I think you missed something.
I don't subscribe to the "not enough" mentality.

Also, a 3 series is "high performance", especially when equipped with the sport option. A fast straight line machine, such as your Lightning, is only a "high performance" car in one aspect and that is when it's going straight. Thus, in terms of overall performance, which is why a 3 series is high performance, your Lightning will surely NOT beat a Vette especially a Z06.

And, yes it takes hundreds and into the thousands to get a normally aspirated vehicle to improve it's performance by 1 sec.
BTW, you misquoted/paraphrased my cost comment.
People spend $300-$500 on intakes and another $500-over $1000 on exhausts, that's from $800-$1500 spent, that barely net a 1 sec. difference.

T

[epiphone3]

Originally Posted by Mario1235

I am looking to buy a 325i now because its in my price range and im now 21 and going to lease a car on my own and not have my parents help me out anymore... I currently drive a 2004 tahoe...and before that I had a Corvette Z06....Going from 405hp dream car to an SUV wasnt the greatest thing in the world...but now going to a 215hp sedan is it going to be quick at all? or am i just gonna be a regular car on the road....I am going to get the manual transmission....Thanks

Seriously, it will be plenty quick. Much more refined than the vette but definately not that brute quick.

215hp is enough as long as you don't have a confidence problem. I drive a 2005 Yamaha R6 sportbike (faster than a Z06 corvette) when I am not driving my 174 bhp 2006 BMW 323i and I find that the 323i delivers an excellent level of performance that I am very happy with.

[LEDZEP]

I'd get the SLR McClaren.

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by LEDZEP

I'd get the SLR McClaren.

I'm with Zep.
Forget the 3 series slug, go with something that has a "hemi".

T

[Synikal]

Wow! What a discussion! I love my 325I; I bought it in hopes to trade it in for the new M3 that's due. It has plenty of power for around town and either way you go (325I or 330I) you can't make a bad decision, as BMW will always make fun cars to drive.

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by Synikal

Wow! What a discussion! I love my 325I; I bought it in hopes to trade it in for the new M3 that's due. It has plenty of power for around town and either way you go (325I or 330I) you can't make a bad decision, as BMW will always make fun cars to drive.

Exactly!

T

[JB 330ci]

Originally Posted by Synikal

Wow! What a discussion! I love my 325I; I bought it in hopes to trade it in for the new M3 that's due. It has plenty of power for around town and either way you go (325I or 330I) you can't make a bad decision, as BMW will always make fun cars to drive.

I'd agree with this. No matter what you buy you will still be enjoying one fine German engineered machine for driving...what else is there in life beside that?

[ItalyBMW325]

Originally Posted by RPM90

None of that is what I was responding to initially.
I think you missed something.
I don't subscribe to the "not enough" mentality.

Also, a 3 series is "high performance", especially when equipped with the sport option. A fast straight line machine, such as your Lightning, is only a "high performance" car in one aspect and that is when it's going straight. Thus, in terms of overall performance, which is why a 3 series is high performance, your Lightning will surely NOT beat a Vette especially a Z06.

And, yes it takes hundreds and into the thousands to get a normally aspirated vehicle to improve it's performance by 1 sec.
BTW, you misquoted/paraphrased my cost comment.
People spend $300-$500 on intakes and another $500-over $1000 on exhausts, that's from $800-$1500 spent, that barely net a 1 sec. difference.

T

I personally would not condsider an E90 a high performance vehicle just cause the sports package has different suspension. But that s a matter of opinion. I think you might want to check the 1/4 mile times for a Lightning vs a Corvette (Not Z06). Also you might want to drive a Lightning before commenting on "performance capabilities". This truck is designed to handle like a car. Of course at the end of the day it is still a truck so it can only do so much but you would be surprised.

I think you missed my point. The guy asked if it was enough... and Burrito said 215 its not enough try the 330. There is not that big of a difference to make that statement. Is the 330 faster? Sure it is. But to say 215 is not enough try 245 is comical.

Bottom line is this debate will rage for ever. Now 330 gets props for the 162's but thats about it IMO. The difference in performance does not warant the extra 3K (approx). Now if he does not care how he spends his money he should get the 330 if he feels the extra 40 HP will make him happy. Personally I would buy a different car if he is worried about 40 HP.

[no1sportz]

Originally Posted by Mario1235

I am looking to buy a 325i now because its in my price range and im now 21 and going to lease a car on my own and not have my parents help me out anymore... I currently drive a 2004 tahoe...and before that I had a Corvette Z06....Going from 405hp dream car to an SUV wasnt the greatest thing in the world...but now going to a 215hp sedan is it going to be quick at all? or am i just gonna be a regular car on the road....I am going to get the manual transmission....Thanks

Haha...you sound like me. Im 26 and have had 17 cars...lol. The 325 could be considered quick but not fast. If you have a need for speed as in acceleration you may want to hold out for the 335 coupe. Or better yet the ///M3. I bought the 330 and it is a great car no doubt. Very spirited and extremely fun to drive but it does not satisfy the speed demon side of me. The question is whether you have the patience to wait it out for a new release with more raw power. I never do.

[JamieA]

Yes. My car feels like a rocket. I came from a less powerful car though.


PS: It never ceases to amaze me how many crafty ways we have of reviving the ol' 325 vs 330 discussion... and I still get sucked in

[Bimmer325]

325i is enough. a 330i would be better if financially premitted..

[mmeads]

Originally Posted by Mario1235

also wasnt ever trying to compare the 325 to 330 just wanted to find out the info on the 325, i have no intention of buying the 330, if i was ever gonna go with the 330 i would get the lexus is350

So if you could go either German or Japanese, why not get the G35 6MT? Pricing is comparable to the 325 (with more features), and you'd get 298hp instead of 215. They're great cars, with a good design, and what little they lack in handling they make up for in raw power.

[jamesna120]

Originally Posted by RPM90

I'm with Zep.
Forget the 3 series slug, go with something that has a "hemi".

T

Better yet, i'd get a SLR like Zep and race an Enzo off on Malibu.. as some of you might recall what happened not too long ago...

[Flyingfart]

I agree!

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by ItalyBMW325

I personally would not condsider an E90 a high performance vehicle just cause the sports package has different suspension. But that s a matter of opinion. I think you might want to check the 1/4 mile times for a Lightning vs a Corvette (Not Z06). Also you might want to drive a Lightning before commenting on "performance capabilities". This truck is designed to handle like a car. Of course at the end of the day it is still a truck so it can only do so much but you would be surprised.

I think you missed my point. The guy asked if it was enough... and Burrito said 215 its not enough try the 330. There is not that big of a difference to make that statement. Is the 330 faster? Sure it is. But to say 215 is not enough try 245 is comical.

Bottom line is this debate will rage for ever. Now 330 gets props for the 162's but thats about it IMO. The difference in performance does not warant the extra 3K (approx). Now if he does not care how he spends his money he should get the 330 if he feels the extra 40 HP will make him happy. Personally I would buy a different car if he is worried about 40 HP.

I don't know where or why you're moving this argument to.
But, you address me about a comment someone else made?
Thus, you put me in a position to do what, defend him?
Also, now you're making a move to get into a debate over what meaning of "high performance" we should use.
Your points are argumentative, not seeking discussion or conclusion.

The debate will rage becasue people like you will continue to make outrageous commentary.
The 3 series BMW is a performance vehicle, and with a sport package even more so. When you start throwing in comments and comparisons with things like a Lightning or a Z06, the waters get muddied very quickly, and any clarity sought is once again blinded.

Yes, I know what the Lightning is and the "claim" is that it is "designed" to handle "like" a car. But, even as you say, at the end of the day, it doesn't. "like a car" can mean anything, which car? The Lightning is an American creation of big power in a straight line. Yes, it is lowered compared to other trucks, but no way does it compete in OVERALL performance with a
Corvette, and even less so the Z06.
Your last claim with the "surprised" comment, goes to negate your insistance on the Lightnings supremecy.
But, let's leave that topic alone, as it's going way off the point.

My position on the 325 vs. 330 issue is clear.
The 3 series is one fine automobile. One should choose a vehicle based on their needs and expectations.

T

[ItalyBMW325]

Originally Posted by RPM90

I don't know where or why you're moving this argument to.
But, you address me about a comment someone else made?
Thus, you put me in a position to do what, defend him?
Also, now you're making a move to get into a debate over what meaning of "high performance" we should use.
Your points are argumentative, not seeking discussion or conclusion.

The debate will rage becasue people like you will continue to make outrageous commentary.
The 3 series BMW is a performance vehicle, and with a sport package even more so. When you start throwing in comments and comparisons with things like a Lightning or a Z06, the waters get muddied very quickly, and any clarity sought is once again blinded.

Yes, I know what the Lightning is and the "claim" is that it is "designed" to handle "like" a car. But, even as you say, at the end of the day, it doesn't. "like a car" can mean anything, which car? The Lightning is an American creation of big power in a straight line. Yes, it is lowered compared to other trucks, but no way does it compete in OVERALL performance with a
Corvette, and even less so the Z06.
Your last claim with the "surprised" comment, goes to negate your insistance on the Lightnings supremecy.
But, let's leave that topic alone, as it's going way off the point.

My position on the 325 vs. 330 issue is clear.
The 3 series is one fine automobile. One should choose a vehicle based on their needs and expectations.

T

Well there you go... maybe you should RE-READ my post I said the Lightning would beat a Corvette in the 1/4 mile. Last time I checked that is a straight line. Sounds like you know what a Lightning is but have never driven one. I have driven all 4 Corvette, Lightning, 330, 325. I am not talking around a track.

And the E90 (325 or 330) is not a HIGH performance vehicle IMO. It is a Luxury Sport Sedan with some outstanding German Engineering. Now the M3 would be considered a High Performance vehicle.

But hey this is opinion based so you have yours and I have mine. I am not trying to convince you to change your mind I am simply stating my opinion.

[cntlaw]

215hp (325i) is NOT ENOUGH unless it is a V6.
252hp (33oi) is NOT ENOUGH unless it is a V6.
The heavy body of E90 deserves 15% more torque (30.5 kg/m torque sucks ) that we can call it a true sports sedan. A Inline 6 won't offer that, at least, not this of our life-time.
Go V6, V8 or Bitrubo all the way - this is the way to go.

And this is why 335i will get a Biturbo as confirmed by BMW HK.
(There will be no M3 V8 until 2007 Q4)

Go 335i all the way. :rocks:

[Oz]

Watch 335i will come out soon enough and couple years later THAT won't be enough

I don't see why the current 330i needs any more power but that's just me. I am a daily driver and I didn't buy this car to race others and spend time on tracks.

[Dizzy330i]

(Aside: Why am I getting involved?)

Italy: You mean to say that an SVT Lightning with a 5.8s 0-60 and a 13.9 quarter can beat a C6 (Stock) Vette with a 4.1s 0-60 and a 12.6 quarter? Is there something I'm missing?

I agree that the lightning is quite a powerful machine, and certainly a lot of effort has gone into the tuning. However, I don't know if the point RPM was trying to make is this one, but: The e90 is not designed like the lightning. It's completely designed to be a comfortable, complete car with the added benefit that it can change into a sports car at the drop of a foot (and a gear, perhaps), and at the turn of the wheel. Which brings me to my main point: The e90 is a car with the steering feel and handling of a sports car, right from the get-go (read: std. equip.). It has respectable performance, but it's also not a muscle car. And great though its handling may be, it's not a featherweight Lotus.

The stats on the Lightning are more in-line with a Mustang GT, a real American muscle car: 0-60 in 5.2s, quarter in 13.8s. Oh and .87 on the skidpad. And even though the Lightning gets a respectable .85 on the skidpad it's still not the e90's .89 and certainly not the vette's 1.0.

But I'm splitting hairs with numbers. This, of course, cannot take into account the specific intangibles that every car/truck/scooter has. And I would argue that this is the MOST important quality to be determined at test-drive time.

As it goes, different tools for different jobs. The lightning is designed to be a well-handling truck. It's designed to be an awesome performance truck, in fact. But again, not a car.

Another thing, the 330i has 255hp not 245. Don't shortchange me 10 horses. =)

[ic]

Originally Posted by cntlaw

215hp (325i) is NOT ENOUGH unless it is a V6.
252hp (33oi) is NOT ENOUGH unless it is a V6.

I understand the current E90 doesn't have enough hp for striagth line acceleration, but I can't understand why V6 help (provided that other factors are the same)!?