[SevenSixNine]

Hey guys,

I'm new to the forum and the BMW world. I've wanted one for the longest, but I made the mistake of going with another car a few years ago not realizing a BMW was within my reach. I've been doing some research and I'm having some trouble getting a straight overall answer. I'm looking at the 2008ish (or years close to that because they're in my price range of about $15-20k) 328xi and the 335xi. I'm mostly wondering how the xi's are compared to the RWD i's. I've heard mixed feelings on BMW's AWD platform for these years, but I'm pretty dead set on the AWD for inclement weather and whatnot, especially since I might be moving to Oregon in the next few years. I've also heard mixed reviews on the TT setup which makes me wonder about whether or not I should lean more toward the 328xi, even though it would be nice to have a fast car for once. I appreciate everyone's input.

[SevenSixNine]

I forgot to mention I also won't buy anything other than manual, so I'm curious about reliability of the transmissions too.

[Lankster]

I have an auto 335xi, and I couldnt be happier. I go to the mountains a lot and the AWD handles quite nicely. Reliability for me is good, and power is even more fun with a simple tune.

[SevenSixNine]

Originally Posted by Lankster

I have an auto 335xi, and I couldnt be happier. I go to the mountains a lot and the AWD handles quite nicely. Reliability for me is good, and power is even more fun with a simple tune.

Thanks for the response Lankster. What year is, and how long have you had your 335? Have you really had any problems other than the usual tuneups and whatnot?

[Envuks]

Had my car for 1.5 years. No real issues other than turbos replaced under warranty. I'd say in your price range, go for the 328 because you'll get one in better shape / lower miles.

I'm not worries about things like the transfer case breaking (search it), because I've got an in at a shop to get work done at a low cost. If you need to use a dealer it can get costly quick

[virtualbong]

I love my e92 328xi and the AWD system is awesome in my opinion. A few Christmas' ago when we had that blizzard, I drove back to MA from Rochester, NY and the car was killer in the snow. I saw cars spinning out and trucks/suvs driving slow, but the BMW was cutting through. I was also using my stock 17s with runflat tires.

As for 328 vs. 335, I do wish I had the extra umph but the 328 is no slouch and I came from a G35 coupe. I also have a manual if that makes any difference.

Reliability wise, the 328xi has been rock solid. The only issues I have had since ownership (almost 5 years) is rear taillight issue (says the bulb is out but its not). I have only done the standard maintenance...actually, I am just about to change my brakes and it will be the first time since ownership.

[kdbryce]

I used to drive all wheel drive cars and thoroughly enjoyed them. However, after switching to rwd, I would never go back. It's hard to explain, but they just feel much better.

Plus launching an awd car with a 6mt is much more difficult. at least to get a quick 0-60

beware that finding a 6mt will be difficult if you're looking for a specific color combo

good luck!

[Lankster]

Originally Posted by SevenSixNine

Thanks for the response Lankster. What year is, and how long have you had your 335? Have you really had any problems other than the usual tuneups and whatnot?

Its an '07. I bought an extended warrantee through CarMax, and it has paid off. The only work done that was absolutely necessary was my steering pump. Other repairs were more of an embellishing to my SA to fix something that was going out. Ive owned it for a year now, and owned it since 64k miles to 75k miles

[moonsin]

BMW AWD works really well...when i was driving through that huge snowstorm in jersey last season not a single low traction warning on the dash the entire way up the snakey hill.

I had RWD cars before while it definitely does feel better but its nice knowing that i'm not gonna get stuck if there's more than few inches of snow on the ground

[djjasper]

In my opinion, there is a such a difference between a 328 and a 335 that it seems odd to be trying to choose between the two. I actually think comparing a Honda to a Toyota is more of an apples to apples, even though they are obviously more different on the surface being different manufacturers.

[Mr.Smithers]

I have an 07 328xi with 128k miles, no major problems so far, knock on wood!

[Scott C BMW]

My 328Xi (07) comments...

Make sure you drive the manual - I find the shifting - well, sadly poor compared to ANY other car I have had. By poor, I mean it is imprecise, the clutch has a flow control valve (orifice) in it to keep you from engaging the clutch too fast (or disengaging it). Please try one and make your own assessment - I will be curious to see what you think. I have a 5 series auto - that thing is Sooooo Smoooth.

With respect to AWD vs RWD - I would take the RWD. The AWD is a little rough and I can't tell you why (well part of it is the RFT). I can only say this as my transaxle actuator (engages front wheels - $1000 to fix) failed - was smooth trip to the dealer compared to with AWD. There was still some roughness which is due to the RFT which I also am not a fan of. Put snow tires on RWD car in the winter - I think you will be far happier. Of course you could also do that with a AWD.

Best wishes...
Scott

[MGT81]

I have a 2008 335xi with the sport package and manual. It's a great car. Despite not having the true sport suspension that the rwd models have, it's a very well sorted, smooth handling car. My friend who has a rwd 335i manual with the sport package said theatre doesn't notice a huge difference between our cars.

Only downside is that they get pretty heavy (almost 3800 lbs). Plus they look a little truckish compared to the rwd models with the sport package. But for having the all-weather ability (there's tons of snow where I live and I run snow tires in the winter) and the extra grip accelerating out of turns, it's pretty awesome. Especially with the manual. Do yourself a favor and get a clutch stop and the ZHP shift knob. Makes driving the manual even more fun.

Oh, and get real tires. The run flats suck.

[TeinBMW]

I've got a 335xi and I've modded her with a few stuff and boy it's a fast car. I definitely love the awd Makes Corning alot better.

[NeoNz]

Go drive both, no real comparison between the 335 and 328. you can drop $1K into the 335 and you'll have a 350-375rwhp car vs 225rwhp.

[ArchiProf]

I have a 2012 E92 335ix with the 6MT, M package, 18" wheels, BSM with black interior. I am very happy with the car. The AWD works well in the snow but also works very well in the rain when accelerating from a stop. Since I do not use this car for racing or on the track, only for real-world driving (mostly on holiday trips in varying weather conditions but as an occasional daily driver), it suits my needs perfectly.

I also have a friend with an E92, 6MT, 335i RWD and we have both driven both cars in a variety of conditions and places and there is very little, if any, noticeable difference in normal driving. I suppose in certain driving situations and conditions, probably illegal if on public streets, the RWD vehicle would be superior, if for no other reason than the better F/R balance.

Do I wish there was a little less wheel gap? Sure for aesthetic purposes. But given real-world road conditions and especially the unknowns of places we visit on holiday trips, having the extra ground clearance is worth it. And, except for comments on this forum, I have never, ever had anyone say “needs a drop” to me in person but I have had numerous compliments on the car from friends and strangers alike.

BTW, I have no problems with the runflat tires. The thought standing alongside the interstate or in a "sketchy" neighborhood or unfamiliar place at night trying to use a mobility pack with a flat non-RF tire is not appealing to me or my spouse.

[BRAISKI]

Depends what you need, I got the 335 since I track here and there. If I wanted something more practical I would have gotten the 328. I got the AWD for winter not really because of performance.

Also a 335 thats out of warranty might be a problem but I can't comment on that but I'm sure some guys can...

[iknowitsfast]

I was in the same boat as you last week. I finally pulled the trigger on a 335xi because even though the 328xi probably would have been the more reliable ride, I hate regrets. The 335 is stupid fast. I'm coming from a 350z and it doesn't compare to the acceleration of the 335. You will launch and take off like a rocket. You also wont realize just how fast you are going. Then again I got it in auto so my wife can drive it. Get a warranty same day you purchase though. seriously.