I dropped off my e46 m3 this morning, and full-on expected to be stuck with another Toyota Tundra. Lucky for me while all the other drivers were getting stuck with 325s I got the lone 335xi loaner.
Being faced with the decision of "do i get a 335 or an e46 m3" here is my review so far: (disclaimer: this car was a stripper it had basically no options except awd and 6spd)
The 335xi step all out sucks. It is a horrible car and not worth the money. I would rather buy a civic or a kia. I had more fun driving my e46 323 step. It does not seem fast, the interior seems budget, and the push button start is just plain annoying to have to pop the key out. (I've been fine for 10 years turning a key, they didnt do me any favors adding this button). This might be better with the "convenience" package.
The acceleration: It could very well be fast, I dont know but it just doesn't seem fast. The exhast note "waaaaa" sounds more like the nissan exhaust and nothing like the roar of the m3 as it hits 7900rpm. While I was at first excited and anticipating getting into a fairly new 335, I left disappointed and annoyed. Furthermore the oil temperature indicator said it was at 250degrees! yowza thats hot for just cruisin the highway.
This only applies to the 335xis - It is not worth 50, or 40k. I would never opt for the 335 if i were to get a bmw.
Maybe rwd makes the car more fun and quicker. Maybe the 6spd makes it more fun and nimble. Perhaps this car has just been beat on so much that it isn't working right (or the other people filled it up with lower octane since we have to return it "full"). Whatever the case, I got into this car with an open mind (and even considering trading in the M for one) and left feeling ashamed that I ever doubted the m3.
/rant
flames inc i guess, but this is just my opinion.
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