E36 M3 vs E46 330ci

frigga · 03-15-2006, 10:54 AM

Hey guys,

This topic may have been talked about in the past, but I have just spent about 45 mins searching this and other forums to find possible opinions on the matter, and wasn't able to find the answers I was looking for.

Just to give some specifics for those who can give input, I am in the market for another car and have been eyeing these two for quite some time. 2001 330ci and an e36 m3.

The price ranges for these two cars are not the same, however that can play a positive or negative role in your opinion about them.

What I would like to know is what you think on the two cars overall and under the following categories: (not in any specific order):

- Power (HP/Torque)

- Handling (maybe a track day or two nothing serious)

- Appearance (shape of the vehicle, inside and out)

- Possible future modifications (seeing that I will keep it for a long period of time, need to do something with it, and if one would be cheaper than the other)

- Driveability (will be summer and winter driven)

...and any other topic that isn't listed.

Thanks in advance.

bimmer318ti · 03-15-2006, 01:43 PM

If you want a "toy" get the m3 if you want a car thats better for all year long, get the 330ci.

Furious · 03-15-2006, 02:46 PM

the rule is... e36 M3 > all non-M e46 cars in terms of performance. and as for style its a matter of opinion, some people love the e36 style, some love the e46 style, personally i think the 330 ZHP looks amazing and much more up to date than the e36 M3.

JazzM · 03-15-2006, 04:31 PM

The 330 is a 2.8L block with the e36 M3 3.2L crank. Same stroke just smaller bore.

Its hands down the e36 M3 is a faster and better car

T.

330ci05 · 03-15-2006, 04:47 PM

///m>non ///m

**T.Dot_E30** · 03-15-2006, 04:50 PM

I say it would depend on the condition of the e36 //m, its getting harder and harder to find an /m in good condition.

Also wouldn't the //m cost more with insurance?

Furious · 03-15-2006, 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by T.Dot_E30

I say it would depend on the condition of the e36 //m, its getting harder and harder to find an /m in good condition.

Also wouldn't the //m cost more with insurance?

actually it depends on which company, i have had quotes and have had friends quoted for both a late model 330 and for a 97 M3 and they were virtually the same give or take a few dollars

vertakul · 03-15-2006, 05:45 PM

if you take an E36 M3 over an E46 330ci you are a crackhead. E36 looks dated and I don't care about .1-.2 in a 1/4 mile.. go for the E46!! When the E92 comes out you will be regretting having such an old 3 series.

Justin e36 · 03-15-2006, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aschon

if you take an E36 M3 over an E46 330ci you are a crackhead. E36 looks dated and I don't care about .1-.2 in a 1/4 mile.. go for the E46!! When the E92 comes out you will be regretting having such an old 3 series.

agreed 100%.

BMetal · 03-15-2006, 09:44 PM

^^ second that

***Gamite*** · 03-15-2006, 10:38 PM

I'm a crackhead.

Stuttgart · 03-16-2006, 01:28 AM

LOL I know there are more crackheads out there than jus Gamite, E36 m3's r a legend, u want to make a social statement? get the e46 and stay up to date, but all in all do what u want, and what makes U happy. Don't put too much weight on what others think.

frigga · 03-16-2006, 01:39 AM

thanks a lot for all the great replys.

Just to let you know that insurance is virtually the same in terms of costs and coverages.

I am really leaning towards the E36 M3, even though I haven't yet driven one. A good friend of mine let me test drive his E46 330ci, and although it is a very good looking car, I was expecting more in terms of performance. Maybe it was just all in my head though.
I guess I need to test drive them back to back to see.

Just to clarify it would only be a 2001 330ci nothing newer than that.

Woofer · 03-16-2006, 01:45 AM

Get the m3. Class with some ass! lol

all jokes aside, it's a much better car. Some people it's dated but so what? Still looks sweet and drives better then a non m e46. Your looking for balls to back up the look.

Like mentioned above, you should get what you really want. Who cares what we hav eto say. Weigh the pros and cons of owning each one.

propr'one · 03-16-2006, 03:27 AM

The 330 ZHP is marginally faster than my 328 (not from racing one, just driving both)

Honestly, the ZHP felt tight, and very responsive. For me, it wasn't really an option (used 330 ZHP + repairs = 35K, used e36 328 + repairs = 15K)

but honestly, if i was in your position, i'd probably get the 330. Personally i love the stylilng of the e36