[andyj00]

Hi all. I currently have a Vectra 3.0 V6 diesel SRi and am considering changing it for a 04 plate 330d Sport. I havent yet been in a 330d.
Whats the handling like and what cars does it compare to? Is it the same/better than a hot hatch for example?

What do they go like, the 205bhp models?

Also, what the UK servicing costs like? How much would I expect to pay for a service?

Any info would be helpful please!

Cheers.
Andy

[Serjames]

I would imagine you'll be VERY pleased with the move.

My only suggestion would be look at e90 models if you can as the handling IS improved and you may get a good deal ?

SJ

[mjh93sa]

On an '04 plate I am assuming that you are looking at the E46 rather than the E90. As such you may not get quite as many responses here as for the E9x series.

You may want to take a look at www.bmwland.co.uk as they have a wider coverage of all BMW models.

I can't say that I have experienced the Vectra diesel, but I don't think that you'll find the 330d disappointing. The best advice I can give is to find one and give it a test drive.

[NFS]

Originally Posted by andyj00

Hi all. I currently have a Vectra 3.0 V6 diesel SRi and am considering changing it for a 04 plate 330d Sport. I havent yet been in a 330d.
Whats the handling like and what cars does it compare to? Is it the same/better than a hot hatch for example?

What do they go like, the 205bhp models?

Also, what the UK servicing costs like? How much would I expect to pay for a service?

Any info would be helpful please!

Cheers.
Andy

The BMW will be reat wheel drive - which will be a significant change in the handling.

I got into e46 BMW's after owning a W reg Vectra GSi. Older generation I know, but the vectra, although quick, had very little steering feel and was snappy (dangerous) at the limit of grip.

The handling in the BMW by comparison will seem much more progressive, plenty of warning that you are strting to lose adhesion and steerability on the throttle once the car starts to give.

There aren't any hot hatches which handle like a rear wheel drive car.

The latest generation are supposed to be very good, but it's not the same experience.

[andyj00]

Thanks very much for your replies....

[ChrisMWard]

We had two 330d e46s, one 02 plate with the 184BHP engine and a 54 plate with the 204BHP lump. They were both auto sport models and very good cars, the later model only feeling a little quicker at the top end. Servicing wasn't expensive on the first one and didn't cost athing on the second as it had a five year full service and brakes pack on it when we bought it (a bonus as well as the salesman didn't even mention it to us). A lot of diesel models around 2004 had service packs included so check that out.

Regards

Chris

[NFS]

Originally Posted by ChrisMWard

A lot of diesel models around 2004 had service packs included so check that out.

Regards

Chris

Good point. Some 54 plate cars had a 5 year service and maintenance pack included for free.

[ChrisMWard]

Originally Posted by needforspeed

Good point. Some 54 plate cars had a 5 year service and maintenance pack included for free.

I couldn't believe that the salesman never mentioned this when we were negotiating the deal. After dropping £500 and throwing in a 6 disc changer, I was very happy, but then to find out from our local dealer that the car was service free was additionally great.

Regards

Chris