The engine is a marvel. The dual overhead cam, 24-valve, six-cylinder engine runs smoothly and rapidly to 7000 rpm. The main difference between the 325i and the 330i is that the latter gets a three-stage variable intake manifold instead of the 325i's two-stage, and has a different engine-management program. The marvel is that although the peak output is at 6600 rpm, it makes 220 lb-ft of torque at only 2750 rpm making sixth gear acceleration easy. It also means that ordering the
automatic transmission option a more practical decision. The engine in the 330i has 30 more needed horsepower than previous models and an additional six pound-feet of torque. Better yet, the fuel mileage is improved by about ten percent and the engine weighs less. Now that is engineering.
I never got tired of listening to the turbine like sound of the engine as I accelerated in first and second up to highway speed. Very fun. It certainly isn't a quick vehicle, but it is a fast one.
If I could draw up a perfect car it would start with the 3 Series chassis, brakes, and engine. I would go for a more upscale, roomier interior, a better stereo, and a larger trunk. Throw in a Prius electric motor system and the sound of the Bentley Continental and you pretty much have my perfect travel buddy.
College going male's view: The rear doors open wide enough, but the seat room is limited in back. The split-folding rear seat is worth ordering and you need to be aware that the 3-Series has run-flat tires to save space for more storage in the trunk. The stereo is weak, reception adequate, and the controls complex and require practice to master. Okay, enough patter, how does it feel to drive the 330i? Well, I was not allowed. You see between the other members of The Car Family my seat time was zilch. The upside for those considering a BMW 3-Series is that they are desirable for all ages. The downside is that you may just have to consider ordering more than one.
Young working woman's view: Nothing drives like a BMW and the 330i is no exception. In terms of safety you get four-wheel vented ABS disc brakes with four piston calipers, Dynamic Stability Control System, traction control, dual front, front side, and front and rear head curtain airbags. But
the greatest safety feature is its ability to escape tight situations with its wonderfully weighted steering and overall chassis balance. There is no question that the 50/50 weight distribution makes this BMW a joy to drive at any speed, but when you add the allure of its shape and the aura of its image, and how nice that key looks in your purse and it is hard to resist.
Ordering wise you ladies must consider the Natural Poplar to replace the Walnut trim that blands the interior. The GPS costs two grand and I would avoid the iDrive, not because you cannot master it, but because it would be expensive to fix once the warranty that covers most anything expires. The premium Harmon Kardon stereo with MP3 CD may be worth the extra funds. The dash has a connection point for an iPod system. Overall, an enjoyable experience but its pricing may make the larger 5-Series a more serious consideration for those who like its looks.
Family conference: BMW produces fine driving vehicles but at a price. Our test car listed for over $44,000 with a standard transmission. That gives you plenty of car and includes a dramatic 4 year / 50,000 mile service which covers everything except gas and tires. We like the new 330i for those who enjoy driving rather than cruising. Don't forget that the 3-Series is ultimately going to come as a hotted-up M model, a convertible, sedan, station wagon, coupe, and with all wheel drive. That should please most every Bimmer fan. For all auto websites go to www.reacheverychild.com and click on business.
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| 2006 BMW 330i (Photo: BMW AG) |
I never got tired of listening to the turbine like sound of the engine as I accelerated in first and second up to highway speed. Very fun. It certainly isn't a quick vehicle, but it is a fast one.
If I could draw up a perfect car it would start with the 3 Series chassis, brakes, and engine. I would go for a more upscale, roomier interior, a better stereo, and a larger trunk. Throw in a Prius electric motor system and the sound of the Bentley Continental and you pretty much have my perfect travel buddy.
College going male's view: The rear doors open wide enough, but the seat room is limited in back. The split-folding rear seat is worth ordering and you need to be aware that the 3-Series has run-flat tires to save space for more storage in the trunk. The stereo is weak, reception adequate, and the controls complex and require practice to master. Okay, enough patter, how does it feel to drive the 330i? Well, I was not allowed. You see between the other members of The Car Family my seat time was zilch. The upside for those considering a BMW 3-Series is that they are desirable for all ages. The downside is that you may just have to consider ordering more than one.
Young working woman's view: Nothing drives like a BMW and the 330i is no exception. In terms of safety you get four-wheel vented ABS disc brakes with four piston calipers, Dynamic Stability Control System, traction control, dual front, front side, and front and rear head curtain airbags. But
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| 2006 BMW 330i (Photo: BMW AG) |
Ordering wise you ladies must consider the Natural Poplar to replace the Walnut trim that blands the interior. The GPS costs two grand and I would avoid the iDrive, not because you cannot master it, but because it would be expensive to fix once the warranty that covers most anything expires. The premium Harmon Kardon stereo with MP3 CD may be worth the extra funds. The dash has a connection point for an iPod system. Overall, an enjoyable experience but its pricing may make the larger 5-Series a more serious consideration for those who like its looks.
Family conference: BMW produces fine driving vehicles but at a price. Our test car listed for over $44,000 with a standard transmission. That gives you plenty of car and includes a dramatic 4 year / 50,000 mile service which covers everything except gas and tires. We like the new 330i for those who enjoy driving rather than cruising. Don't forget that the 3-Series is ultimately going to come as a hotted-up M model, a convertible, sedan, station wagon, coupe, and with all wheel drive. That should please most every Bimmer fan. For all auto websites go to www.reacheverychild.com and click on business.
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