Am I going to regret a 330 instead of a 335

[uwhusky]

For years now I've been driving a Honda Civic after selling my 328i. I did it for financial reasons as the 328 was owned outright and I bought the Civic for a difference and cash in pocket of nearly $20k. At the time, I was building a house and wanted the extra cash, just in case.

Now, I'm selling the Civic and plan to buy a friend's 330xi. I love the look of the e90 and think I'll be so happy with a 330, especially in comparison of going from a 1999 Civic hatchback to this e90, loaded with options.

I've driven the 335 and it took my breath away. The 330 doesn't quite do that but still, is so much more than what I have now. I also perceive the 330 to be more reliable than the 335.

Am I going to regret getting the 330 over the 335 in the short term (like in the first 12 months).

[ruxp]

I wouldn't.. 330xi in 6mt is a very, very nice car

[mrvuml]

If BMW still offered the 330 I would have seriously considered getting it instead of a 335 as it strikes a nice balance between the 328 (mediocre at this altitude) and the 335. So, to answer your question, I doubt you would regret the 330, though you need to consider the effect of altitude, especially if you go up into the mountains a lot. The NA 328/330 loses 3% per 1000' altitude.

[desertdriver]

For years now I've been driving a Honda Civic after selling my 328i. I did it for financial reasons as the 328 was owned outright and I bought the Civic for a difference and cash in pocket of nearly $20k. At the time, I was building a house and wanted the extra cash, just in case.

Now, I'm selling the Civic and plan to buy a friend's 330xi. I love the look of the e90 and think I'll be so happy with a 330, especially in comparison of going from a 1999 Civic hatchback to this e90, loaded with options.

I've driven the 335 and it took my breath away. The 330 doesn't quite do that but still, is so much more than what I have now. I also perceive the 330 to be more reliable than the 335.

Am I going to regret getting the 330 over the 335 in the short term (like in the first 12 months).

Yes you will regret it -hugely-because of your 4000+ altitude in salt lake. The 330i will suffer a 15% power loss due to altitude(-40hp), while the 335i with its turbochargers will suffer less than 20hp loss. turbocharged engines are superior performers at altitude as the engine does not run at atmospheric pressure. The net difference will be that the 335i will make 280 hp, and the 330i will make 215 hp. This is a huge difference that will only be exacerbated when you add a passenger and some luggage. As a resident of Utah you know that you can take a drive down state and hit 8000 ft elevation on the interstate, doubling the power loss of your 330 NA engine, while the turbo will still be making 260+ hp.

Take it from an arizona resident that has driven at 8K elevation(grand canyon), 7K flagstaff, and all around southern utah(min 4K), making a 6 cyl car feel like a 4cyl car. If you lived at sea level, the difference would be much less between the two. that is probably the main reason I opted for the twin turbo engine this time.

[mrvuml]

Yes you will regret it -hugely-because of your 4000+ altitude in salt lake. The 330i will suffer a 15% power loss due to altitude(-40hp), while the 335i with its turbochargers will suffer less than 20hp loss. turbocharged engines are superior performers at altitude as the engine does not run at atmospheric pressure. The net difference will be that the 335i will make 280 hp, and the 330i will make 215 hp. This is a huge difference that will only be exacerbated when you add a passenger and some luggage. As a resident of Utah you know that you can take a drive down state and hit 8000 ft elevation on the interstate, doubling the power loss of your 330 NA engine, while the turbo will still be making 260+ hp.

Take it from an arizona resident that has driven at 8K elevation(grand canyon), 7K flagstaff, and all around southern utah(min 4K), making a 6 cyl car feel like a 4cyl car. If you lived at sea level, the difference would be much less between the two. that is probably the main reason I opted for the twin turbo engine this time.I read that the 335 doesn't suffer any power loss due to altitude until > 6000'. Something about adaptive boost. That aside, turbo engines lose only 1.8% per 1000' versus 3% for NA engine.

[desertdriver]

I read that the 335 doesn't suffer any power loss due to altitude until > 6000'. Something about adaptive boost. That aside, turbo engines lose only 1.8% per 1000' versus 3% for NA engine.

If that is true(adaptive boost) and I heard it but have not read the article myself, the difference will be astounding at altitude. I have driven a 240hp NA 6 cyl at 8K altitude on vacation and it felt like a "nice 4 cyl car", ughhh! Driving up hills at altitude with a passenger and some luggage was a real eye opener, couldnt go over 45 mph. I ended up going faster than I wanted to downhill just to keep the trucks off by butt.

[phantombmw]

330 is nothing to be ashamed of, but if you're a power freak you'll alwasy regret not getting the 335.

[x986]

I always preach fiscal responsibility. Only you can know where the price value lines intersect for YOU. Even BJ knows how much money he can spend for the respect he so richly deserves.

[Erregend]

Am I going to regret getting the 330 over the 335.....


Not if you never drive a 335i :D

[AzNMpower32]

I never understood the power-hungry. The 325i, thus definitely the 330xi, is more than enough power. :dunno: The 335i is overkill unless you feel an urge to race people at stoplights.

Compact sport sedans have 300hp. Plebian family sedans now have 270hp. Small European hatchbacks have 265hp. This is ridiculous. We should have household fans with 125bhp and washing machines with 210hp.

[bonsai]

Drive both. If you can't stop smiling after dropping the hammer on the 335i, then you know you're answer.

[mrvuml]

Not if you never drive a 335i :D
Drive both. If you can't stop smiling after dropping the hammer on the 335i, then you know you're answer.
You're right. Do that and its game over. ;)
I was closing in on buying a 328 until I succumbed to the temptation to drive a 335. The CA obviously knew what he was doing when he persuaded me to take a 335 out "for comparison purposes". I'm so glad I changed my mind, the 335 is a blast!
The 328 is no slouch either, and a lot of fun to drive...at sea level.
However, I'm sure the usual 335-bashers will be along shortly to put us 335-lovers in our place. :eeps:

[uwhusky]

I love the speed of the 335 but the 330xi I'm looking at is loaded with all the options I really want (Sport, Prem, Nav, Cold Wx, Rear Sun Shades, Park Distance Ctrl, CA, Auto) and has the exact color combo I've been looking for.

Honestly, I think I'll be happier with all that and a 330xi over a less equipped 335. If I keep holding out for a similar 335, I think it'll take months and probably another $5k to $7k.

Based on that, I almost have to go with the 330xi unless something 335 comes along in the next week and has the options I want. Not too mention, 335xi is even more difficult to come by and with the SLC winters, going from a 330xi to a 335i may be far more dangerous.

That being said, I'm going to keep the search going for another week for a 335. If nothing shows up that matches my wants, 330xi it is.

[desertdriver]

You're right. Do that and its game over. ;)
I was closing in on buying a 328 until I succumbed to the temptation to drive a 335. The CA obviously knew what he was doing when he persuaded me to take a 335 out "for comparison purposes". I'm so glad I changed my mind, the 335 is a blast!
The 328 is no slouch either, and a lot of fun to drive...at sea level.
However, I'm sure the usual 335-bashers will be along shortly to put us 335-lovers in our place. :eeps:

Im driving a 328 today if I hadnt experienced severe altitude power reductions. At 7000ft(flagstaff AZ, less than 3 hrs up I17), a 328i becomes a 318i, ughhh! the 328i will develop(230-50=180 hp, 160 ft lbs), precisely Nissan 2.5L 4 cyl power, exactly.

[mrvuml]

Im driving a 328 today if I hadnt experienced severe altitude power reductions. At 7000ft(flagstaff AZ, less than 3 hrs up I17), a 328i becomes a 318i, ughhh! the 328i will develop(230-50=180 hp, 160 ft lbs), precisely Nissan 2.5L 4 cyl power, exactly.Isn't Gilbert, AZ at sea-level (or very close)? Do you go up to Flagstaff so often that it matters a lot for you?

[mkh]

Ok, I'm trying to be as objective and unbiased as possible. From your description, it looks like you're comparing between a used 330 and a new 335. First, you'll end up paying a lot lot more for the 335. How comfortable to do that is up to you to determine. Regarding power:

1. The 330 is plenty enough for you considered that you're coming from a 1999 Civic. In fact, it's in orders of magnitude more powerful than your current drive that you won't even feel any inadequacies, yes even at high altitudes. If the 330 doesn't have enough power for high elevations, then your Civic would have to be crawling at 40 mph.

2. >90% people who post here are enthusiasts, reads "power freak" (including me). So it's always a tendency to suggest striving for max power and not settle for less. Hence, some comparisons and comments might be blown out of proportion.

3. You have already driven the 335 so you know how powerful it is. If it is "that" impressive and important to you, you would have made up your mind already and not coming here asking for opinions. So it seems that you did notice the difference but not to the point of craving that extra power. In this case, the 330 is definitely enough and you won't regret it. Driving a 335 might give you a little more fun.... until you start thinking about your payments.

ps. My suggestion is based on my understanding of your situation, and I also assume that the 330 is in decent condition and under warranty. If price is not an issue, then the 335 is a no brainer. Hope it helps.

[Gig103]

I'll just quote my fiancee, after driving a 328 and 335 back to back
"If you're going to buy a new car, do it right"

Of course, used vs. new you have to think about not just a difference in cost, but how much of that is depreciation. Your buddy has eaten that for ya.

[tturedraider]

I love the speed of the 335 but the 330xi I'm looking at is loaded with all the options I really want (Sport, Prem, Nav, Cold Wx, Rear Sun Shades, Park Distance Ctrl, CA, Auto) and has the exact color combo I've been looking for.

Honestly, I think I'll be happier with all that and a 330xi over a less equipped 335. If I keep holding out for a similar 335, I think it'll take months and probably another $5k to $7k.

Based on that, I almost have to go with the 330xi unless something 335 comes along in the next week and has the options I want. Not too mention, 335xi is even more difficult to come by and with the SLC winters, going from a 330xi to a 335i may be far more dangerous.

That being said, I'm going to keep the search going for another week for a 335. If nothing shows up that matches my wants, 330xi it is.

You answered your own question right there. :thumbup:

[uwhusky]

This is what I love about these forums...just plain old good conversation and opinions.

I'm not comparing a used 330 to a new 335. I'm comparing used vs used. I've been looking for both for several months, maybe even years now and have finally gotten to the point where I'm financially ready to pull the trigger.

I found a nearly perfect (for me) 335i in Texas last fall but was not ready to pull the trigger. I found the 330xi I plan to buy over a year ago but the owner (friend of a friend) just called me to say when he's back from vacation he's ready to sell and was I still interested.

So, that being said, if I want his car I have to be ready next week when he gets back. If not, I'll need to wait for the right 335i or xi to come along, which I don't have a lot of faith happening any time soon since I'm looking for used and am very partial to colors and options.

[desertdriver]

Isn't Gilbert, AZ at sea-level (or very close)? Do you go up to Flagstaff so often that it matters a lot for you?

Gilbert is at 1000 ft, in 45 minutes I am at 4500 ft on the I87 going to the mogillon rim, 90 minutes 5000 ft on the I17 towards sedona. When you live in the heat in AZ, you get away by going up, up, up. It can be 110F in gilbert and less than 80 degrees(and dry) on the mogillon rim 2 hours away. So yes, anyone that lives here escapes the heat in summer by going to the high altitudes, like people back east go to the ocean. Up there, its nicer than anywhere back east in summer. But up there a 328i goes like a 4 cyl altima, such a waste on those winding mountain roads. I would also be willing to bet the 335i will get better mileage doing that trip(smaller throttle openings). In addition I take longer vacations into souther utah, Zion, bryce and the grand canyon. the winding roads are national scenic highways and fantastic driving, but at up to 10,000 ft elevation(@ cedar breaks national monument). Been there with other cars having 240 hp, very disappointed in the drivability up there. But with a turbo, all is well. Up there an audi 2.0T will outrun a 330i, no kidding. If I was back on the eastern seaboard, well thats different, a 328i 6M would be just great.

[Penforhire]

Everyone has their own threshold of choice. I enjoy my 330 just fine in daily driving. I don't see enough extra in the 335 to make me want to trade up, mostly because of the financial hit. However, if the 335 was available when I bought my 330 I would have gotten the 335. If that makes any sense?

[whitewagon]

Considering that everyone drives slow in the grid pattern that is SLC I would say get the slower car. Whenever I went there for business I was always stuck behind a bunch of beaters. Not to mention the constant stop lights.

[mrvuml]

Gilbert is at 1000 ft, in 45 minutes I am at 4500 ft on the I87 going to the mogillon rim, 90 minutes 5000 ft on the I17 towards sedona. When you live in the heat in AZ, you get away by going up, up, up. It can be 110F in gilbert and less than 80 degrees(and dry) on the mogillon rim 2 hours away. So yes, anyone that lives here escapes the heat in summer by going to the high altitudes, like people back east go to the ocean. Up there, its nicer than anywhere back east in summer. But up there a 328i goes like a 4 cyl altima, such a waste on those winding mountain roads. I would also be willing to bet the 335i will get better mileage doing that trip(smaller throttle openings). In addition I take longer vacations into souther utah, Zion, bryce and the grand canyon. the winding roads are national scenic highways and fantastic driving, but at up to 10,000 ft elevation(@ cedar breaks national monument). Been there with other cars having 240 hp, very disappointed in the drivability up there. But with a turbo, all is well. Up there an audi 2.0T will outrun a 330i, no kidding. If I was back on the eastern seaboard, well thats different, a 328i 6M would be just great.We do annual road trips to the SW but only tend to venture as far south as Page, Flagstaff, Sedona and Prescott as well as Southern Utah (Moab, Bryce, Zion, etc) and Grand Canyon N. and S. rims. Best to avoid Phoenix in summer as you attest to. To get there you have to do the 10,000-12,000' passes over the continental divide. It all started when I had a B5 S4. It used to really haul ass at those elevations. It was fun flying past all the struggling normally-aspirated cars, trucks and SUVs. Then I got a E46 330i which didn't come close at altitude. This year I'm looking forward to doing the same places in the 335i (though I did drive it back from SoCal in Feb but treated it gently as the trip was the break-in).

[desertdriver]

We do annual road trips to the SW but only tend to venture as far south as Page, Flagstaff, Sedona and Prescott as well as Southern Utah (Moab, Bryce, Zion, etc) and Grand Canyon N. and S. rims. Best to avoid Phoenix in summer as you attest to. To get there you have to do the 10,000-12,000' passes over the continental divide. It all started when I had a B5 S4. It used to really haul ass at those elevations. It was fun flying past all the struggling normally-aspirated cars, trucks and SUVs. Then I got a E46 330i which didn't come close at altitude. This year I'm looking forward to doing the same places in the 335i (though I did drive it back from SoCal in Feb but treated it gently as the trip was the break-in).


Those are some of the best drives in the country, enjoy them in your new car. The 335 is probably one of the best cars you can use at altitude, and those mountain roads are a dream drive!

[ihavedrivenanm1]

My late '06 e90 330i is my daily driver.

I have other cars for more - extreme pursuits.

I own my car outright and have been toying for months now with getting a new 335i - just because of the additional power - well, more that the 335i has a broader power band with more power available down low - which IMHO is the only problem with the NA 3.0 I6.

Why haven’t I "upgraded" yet?

Simply because the NA 3.0 I6 engine is over all the finest motor I have ever experienced, better than my Jag 4.2 I6 was, better than my f355 v8 was. Save for having to rev into the high 3's, low 4's to get any real power it is a perfect engine and a joy to drive every day. I still smile every time I get behind the wheel.

Do I really want to trade all that pleasure and reliability for oil pump problems, ridiculously high engine and oil temps, and limp-mode issues.

Maybe, but not just yet...

[mlaynemd]

Not if you never drive a 335i :D

The OP has already driven a 335i. So the debate ended there. He WILL regret a 330i, Just like all the E90 330i owners did as soon as the 335i came out with a MSRP equal to what they just shelled out for their 06 330. Just bad luck on their part. Oh well. That's what leases are for.

ML

[uwhusky]

Well, wouldn't you know I found a 335i on Saturday I may actually get over the 330xi I was all but set on.

The 335i is a lease take over but it the terms, at least to me, seem unbelievable.

Lease is up in 7 months, November 2008.
Payment is $450 per month.
Residual at end of lease is just around $36k.
Car is at 16k miles, has 30k available on the lease.

The thing I like about this lease is I can essentially rent the car for 7 months at a very comfortable $450/month and then if its proven reliable, can purchase for the residual.

Only problem with it is it has some paint damage but no body damage. I'm taking it to a good body shop tomorrow to see what it would cost to put the car back to looking like new.

By the way, it's black on black, has every single option except the AWD.

[craigr]

You're right. Do that and its game over. ;)
I was closing in on buying a 328 until I succumbed to the temptation to drive a 335. The CA obviously knew what he was doing when he persuaded me to take a 335 out "for comparison purposes". I'm so glad I changed my mind, the 335 is a blast!
The 328 is no slouch either, and a lot of fun to drive...at sea level.
However, I'm sure the usual 335-bashers will be along shortly to put us 335-lovers in our place. :eeps:

The joys of strong opinions and deep feelings, is that there are those who love to tell us what we love and how we feel are wrong. But then as the boost builds and spins the rear tires and a big grin appears on my face-- I quickly forget those that call us fools with misguided passions.

my 3¢

craig

[Unagi1]

^
Amen brotha...:D

[equ]

The 330 is a very fine motor indeed. It's no 335, but the car is very efficient, coming from a 99 civic, it will be a rocketship. I think you have it answered, if it is a car you like, from a friend, you should get it. Just find a fair price (edmunds trade-in is much higher than trade-in so it could be a private party proxy, e.g.).

[AK]

You will definitely regret getting a 330 over a 335, especially since you live in Utah at higher altitudes where turbos absolutely rock!

[uwhusky]

For those interested in reading, I'm really down to the final day(s) on this - having found both a 330xi and 335i that suit my needs.

Both have the following options: Auto, Sport, Nav, Cold Wx, Sun Shades, CA, Premium Pkg, Park Dist Control.

330xi is a 2006 with 28,500 miles.
Color combo is white / terra
Overall condition is very good
I'm hoping to pay $32k or less for it

335i is a 2007 with 16k miles
Color combo is black / black
Overall condition is lacking - it needs some paint work, re-buffing, a few door dings pulled out. Overall cost of repairs is estimated at $2000.
It's a lease transfer w/ monthly pmt of $450 (that includes tax), 30k miles on lease (14k remaining), lease up Nov 2008 and residual value of $36,340.

I'm still leaning 330xi, although the 335i has me interested especially based on the high altitude comments. That being said, I'm not all that interested in repairing the paint damage and love the color combo much, much more on the 330xi.

Votes?

[RichReg]

You could probably get the 330 for just about $30K if you try hard enough...
..not so sure about any discounts on a 335. :dunno:

If you do go for the 335, be sure to check out any possible issues with the fuel pump and as to whether or not that particular 335 was manufactured with the "old" pump or the new one that supposedly doesn't cause as much (if any) trouble. :)

[mrvuml]

For those interested in reading, I'm really down to the final day(s) on this - having found both a 330xi and 335i that suit my needs.

Both have the following options: Auto, Sport, Nav, Cold Wx, Sun Shades, CA, Premium Pkg, Park Dist Control.

330xi is a 2006 with 28,500 miles.
Color combo is white / terra
Overall condition is very good
I'm hoping to pay $32k or less for it

335i is a 2007 with 16k miles
Color combo is black / black
Overall condition is lacking - it needs some paint work, re-buffing, a few door dings pulled out. Overall cost of repairs is estimated at $2000.
It's a lease transfer w/ monthly pmt of $450 (that includes tax), 30k miles on lease (14k remaining), lease up Nov 2008 and residual value of $36,340.

I'm still leaning 330xi, although the 335i has me interested especially based on the high altitude comments. That being said, I'm not all that interested in repairing the paint damage and love the color combo much, much more on the 330xi.

Votes?As much as I'm an advocate for the 335, I'm not so sure about that 335 you found. As the new leaser you would be responsible for the repairs to the bodywork at lease end. Thats maybe why the current leaser is trying to pass it on at this time as he/she knows he/she is facing a large payment for the repairs. It also sounds like the 335 leaser might not have taken much care of the car (some leasers are like that). Btw, to get the lease payment to $450/month with the stated options he/she must have put down quite a bit of cap cost reduction at lease inception. I think you'll probably be better off with the 330xi, it will perform better with auto tranny at your altitude than would a 328. If it were me, I would hunt down a 6MT though, especially for the 330.

[johnc_22]

335i is a 2007 with 16k miles
Color combo is black / black
Overall condition is lacking - it needs some paint work, re-buffing, a few door dings pulled out. Overall cost of repairs is estimated at $2000.
It's a lease transfer w/ monthly pmt of $450 (that includes tax), 30k miles on lease (14k remaining), lease up Nov 2008 and residual value of $36,340.


If you have to have the bodywork repaired before turn in then the 335i is going to cost you a helluva lot more than $450/months.

$2000/7 months = $285.71 + $450 = $735.71/month :eek:

[Big Jim]

Am I missing something? You are not sure whether to get a 330 or 335, but you seem unconcerned about whether its two wheel or four wheel drive. To me, that is the question. Not sure how much snow you have to deal with, but the xi is not the sports car that the i is. It's a completely different car! Get the i unless you drive in snow and only have one car. A 330i of 335i will be much more fun than either the 330xi or 335xi.

[Klamalama]

For years now I've been driving a Honda Civic after selling my 328i. I did it for financial reasons as the 328 was owned outright and I bought the Civic for a difference and cash in pocket of nearly $20k. At the time, I was building a house and wanted the extra cash, just in case.

Now, I'm selling the Civic and plan to buy a friend's 330xi. I love the look of the e90 and think I'll be so happy with a 330, especially in comparison of going from a 1999 Civic hatchback to this e90, loaded with options.

I've driven the 335 and it took my breath away. The 330 doesn't quite do that but still, is so much more than what I have now. I also perceive the 330 to be more reliable than the 335.

Am I going to regret getting the 330 over the 335 in the short term (like in the first 12 months).

You won't regret it a bit. I certainly don't, and, after reading of all the issues the 335 has, I'm doubly satisfied.

Look, no matter how much HP you have, there will always be someone with more. After a certain number it's pretty pointless to keep chasing HP.

OK, then there is the high altitude argument. Let me provide some perspective. I used to own a 94 Taurus SHO with 220HP and an automatic. When we first bought we took it on a cross country trip with extensive time in Colorado. That car, fully loaded, could pull strongly on the steepest interstate grades. It was amusing watching the ricers fly past me on the downhills only to be pass them easily on the uphill side. That SHO had a lot of power for its time but it was still 220HP and with a 4 speed slushbox.

I replaced that car with an Acura CL of 255HP with a manual tranny. It too is not wanting in the power department.

I've now purchased a 330i with 250HP and a manual tranny. It is sweet, with plenty of power, excellent gas mileage, and a reasonable price.

Get the 330, invest the money you save.

[mkh]

As much as I'm an advocate for the 335, I'm not so sure about that 335 you found. As the new leaser you would be responsible for the repairs to the bodywork at lease end. Thats maybe why the current leaser is trying to pass it on at this time as he/she knows he/she is facing a large payment for the repairs. It also sounds like the 335 leaser might not have taken much care of the car (some leasers are like that). Btw, to get the lease payment to $450/month with the stated options he/she must have put down quite a bit of cap cost reduction at lease inception. I think you'll probably be better off with the 330xi, it will perform better with auto tranny at your altitude than would a 328. If it were me, I would hunt down a 6MT though, especially for the 330.
I totally agree. Hmm.... paint repair, door dings, low monthly payment, etc. I'm curious to know why the owner is selling it with such a big loss (heavy cap cost reduction). Is there something he knows that you don't?

What is the disadvantage of the 330xi other than the weaker engine? It's from a friend of yours; has the right interior combinations; no repair; and no worry about fuel pump issue. If I were you, I'd pass on this and either take the 330 or wait for a better 335.

[tturedraider]

For those interested in reading, I'm really down to the final day(s) on this - having found both a 330xi and 335i that suit my needs.

Both have the following options: Auto, Sport, Nav, Cold Wx, Sun Shades, CA, Premium Pkg, Park Dist Control.

330xi is a 2006 with 28,500 miles.
Color combo is white / terra
Overall condition is very good
I'm hoping to pay $32k or less for it

335i is a 2007 with 16k miles
Color combo is black / black
Overall condition is lacking - it needs some paint work, re-buffing, a few door dings pulled out. Overall cost of repairs is estimated at $2000.
It's a lease transfer w/ monthly pmt of $450 (that includes tax), 30k miles on lease (14k remaining), lease up Nov 2008 and residual value of $36,340.

I'm still leaning 330xi, although the 335i has me interested especially based on the high altitude comments. That being said, I'm not all that interested in repairing the paint damage and love the color combo much, much more on the 330xi.

Votes?

330xi and I've driven both fairly extensively. I also tend to be fairly given to fiscal pragmatism.

[csj78w]

I would really think about what you really need.

like between xi and ci.

Because I think your driving condition is one of the important factors.
Especially if you have to constantly deal with snowy roads, driving in mountain areas,
I would choose xi or all wheel no matter how fast 335ci is.

You will get to your destination way faster without an accident. :dunno:
This won't matter if you are a superb driver who doesn't need xi or all wheel drive. :p

I remember last year when I had to go up to Big Bear Mountains for work in my x5 with two passengers and some cargos...

Thank God I drove x5, which is all-wheel... :yikes:
(took snow chains just in case but didn't have time to put them on, cuz we were running late)

seeing all the other cars slipping and getting in accidents... even some of them with snow tires or chains.. (it was worse the day and I was sliding some too)
Yes, we, the drivers in LA, CA are bad drivers... but the mountain area local people were having hard time too due to sudden change of weather that day.

335ci is fast.. but when you are talking about driving in cities and some areas where you will be stopped here and there, it don't matter. (like some said, 5min difference?)
like me who live in LA, CA... yes I can drive "somewhat FAST" on freeways but... that's about it... unless I go for racing..

and the deal you have with 335, something tells me there might be some "unknown" factors... like, the owner doesn't seem like he would take care of his car much..

Think about it... higher altitude, needs more power? true, but.. you also need control.. I dont know how good you are with snow chains and how often you need snow chains when driving..

p.s. I have drove 330ci before 335ci.. I loved the car. I would have kept it if it didn't have minor issues like cold engine start noises(5 times of visit to the dealer, didn't get fixed)

I seriously thought about keeping it but traded it for 335 when my lease was up.
Only because I have x5 for bad weather driving conditions.
(I have two for my work..)

[uwhusky]

The AWD vs 2WD decision is based mainly on the engines. I'm not inclined to go with the lesser engine and 2WD as I'd sacrifice the AWD to get the 335i. Make sense? I'd prefer the 335 but the 330xi make me reconsider, based mainly on resale value in SLC, UT.

I would guess there are about 6 days a year that I could or would want the AWD. That's not enough for me to determine it's mandatory. I can either work from home those days, take my wife's SUV or drive the 2WD car with snow tires on.

SLC does a very good job of clearing their roads. For the most part, AWD is nice to have but not necessary. That being said, the residents here are keen on it so it makes the resale of those cars better than their 2WD counterparts.

I used to have a 328i back in the late 1990s. It had traction control and I never, ever had any problems driving it around town. I even took it up to Alta ski resort in a big, gnarly snow storm and it went up fine.

I'm big on resale values. I buy cars and the associated options with that in mind, most of the time. My thinking is 330i will not have great resale value in SLC because of the 335i. However, I think a 330xi will have relatively good resale value because of the X, not the 330.

The 335 I'm looking at has an interesting story. The original leasee was killed. The person who took over that lease was a family friend of his and was able to take over the small lease payment but get the advantages of the original leasee's large down pmt to reduce the monthly cost.

This new person, who is relatively young, lives in an apartment and I believe is having a tough time with the payment.

[mlaynemd]

The AWD vs 2WD decision is based mainly on the engines. I'm not inclined to go with the lesser engine and 2WD as I'd sacrifice the AWD to get the 335i. Make sense? I'd prefer the 335 but the 330xi make me reconsider, based mainly on resale value in SLC, UT.

I would guess there are about 6 days a year that I could or would want the AWD. That's not enough for me to determine it's mandatory. I can either work from home those days, take my wife's SUV or drive the 2WD car with snow tires on.

SLC does a very good job of clearing their roads. For the most part, AWD is nice to have but not necessary. That being said, the residents here are keen on it so it makes the resale of those cars better than their 2WD counterparts.

I used to have a 328i back in the late 1990s. It had traction control and I never, ever had any problems driving it around town. I even took it up to Alta ski resort in a big, gnarly snow storm and it went up fine.

I'm big on resale values. I buy cars and the associated options with that in mind, most of the time. My thinking is 330i will not have great resale value in SLC because of the 335i. However, I think a 330xi will have relatively good resale value because of the X, not the 330.

The 335 I'm looking at has an interesting story. The original leasee was killed. The person who took over that lease was a family friend of his and was able to take over the small lease payment but get the advantages of the original leasee's large down pmt to reduce the monthly cost.

This new person, who is relatively young, lives in an apartment and I believe is having a tough time with the payment.

Hopefully not in an accident involving this 335i

ML

[uwhusky]

Not killed in an accident.

[1985mb]

The AWD vs 2WD decision is based mainly on the engines. I'm not inclined to go with the lesser engine and 2WD as I'd sacrifice the AWD to get the 335i. Make sense? I'd prefer the 335 but the 330xi make me reconsider, based mainly on resale value in SLC, UT.

I would guess there are about 6 days a year that I could or would want the AWD. That's not enough for me to determine it's mandatory. I can either work from home those days, take my wife's SUV or drive the 2WD car with snow tires on.

SLC does a very good job of clearing their roads. For the most part, AWD is nice to have but not necessary. That being said, the residents here are keen on it so it makes the resale of those cars better than their 2WD counterparts.

I used to have a 328i back in the late 1990s. It had traction control and I never, ever had any problems driving it around town. I even took it up to Alta ski resort in a big, gnarly snow storm and it went up fine.

I'm big on resale values. I buy cars and the associated options with that in mind, most of the time. My thinking is 330i will not have great resale value in SLC because of the 335i. However, I think a 330xi will have relatively good resale value because of the X, not the 330.

This makes me think you're better off getting the 330Xi :dunno:

[Beemerup]

No question. Go with the 330!!!! It's a brilliantly engineered car for the money...just have it checked (as others have said) out with a mechanic. good luck!

[csj78w]

sounds like you are leaning more toward the 335 now...
Hope it will satisfy you.

[uwhusky]

Well, based on a couple of factors, I went with the 2007 335i.

Main factor being the guy with the 330xi has not called or emailed me back and the guy with the 335i has another buyer who wanted to pull the trigger on it today. I flinched and am going forward with it.

All in all, I feel very good about the decision. Will be a 335i owner after the lease assumption process is complete.