'07 BMW 335i vs. '06 M3

ktak1

As a prior owner of a 2001 BMW 330ci, I was, and still am, completely in love with the current BMW M3. The engine, the body, those flared fenders and 4 exhaust tips... wow. That car truly had a special blend of performance to make it one of those rare cars that we will lust after for many more years to come.

But with the introduction of the new 335i coupe, (twin turbos!!) I'm now overwhelmed. Offering M3 like performance at a much lower cost with that sexy body seems irresistible. I have not had the pleasure of driving one yet, but I wonder... How does it compare with the current M3? I heard that when the new M3 debuts with a mighty V-8 it'll be a monster... but at a very high price!

What do you think? 335i? M3? Save some money to buy the new M3 when it comes out?

tomahawk19

Well, personally I would wait for the m3 to come out, but if you're gonna spend the money, why not just get yourself into an M5. It's all about what you wanna spend. Personally if I had that kind of money to throw at a new BMW I would get myself the M6. Much better looking, plus 500 hp...Anyway, I'm not too keen on the 335i's body styling, just doesn't do it for me.

Gagnar The Unruly

What are E46 M3's going for these days? There may still be some new ones available, and I wonder if you could get a deal from dealers looking to clear their lots?

I think the performance of the E46 M3 still slightly eclipses that of the new 335i, although I also hear the new TT engine is a wonder. Never having ever been in a BMW, much less driven one, I'm hardly an expert. But if you are a current BMW owner you shouldn't have trouble scoring a test drive, and then you can just go with whatever moves you more.

Of course, if you HAVE the money, and you want a new M3, there's no reason not to wait! 450 hp presents a pretty powerful argument, and the M3 body kit looks good.

That said, 300 hp, a sub-5s 0-60 time and a mid 13's 1/4 mile time will HARDLY disappoint, and will be several performance categories above your current ride!

By the way, IMO the M5 is better looking than the M6. Just my 2c.