The BMW E46 330Ci is WAY BETTER Than The M3 AND I WILL DIE ON THIS HILL

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Today - the 330 is just better than an E46 M3. Fight me.
#BMW #M3 #germancars
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[@JayEmmOnCars]

CarVertical: The History Checking Service Use this link or code "JAYEMM" for a discount! www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?b=1e4c9523&a=JayEmm&voucher=jayemm&chan=jayemm

[@red-duke999]

@@JayEmmOnCars Jay, I do hope this message catches your attention! Appreciate your thoughts on the following; I’m due to leave the Army after 26yrs Service and want to spend some of my pension on a toy, up to 50k budget. I’m torn between a Lotus Exige Cup 380, an Alfa 4C, and 718 Spyder. It’ll be for fast road use only and weekend fun! Thanks in advance!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@red-duke999 Exige for the driving experience, Alfa for the last factor. porsche if you wanted longer journeys

[@brianiswrong]

Big props to the owner for keeping it for 15 years and keeping it stock and not all chaved up.

[@altspitfire]

The coupes are also the ones that tend to attract the modifications.

[@alimehrozi2828]

Oh I wish I was a chav proper

[@lolish1234]

I am all for OEM looks etc, but where is the written rule that you can't do to your car whatever you like? Different tastes exist. Even tho I hate riced out cars :D let em

[@RussellHarding-d2o]

@@lolish1234the comment didn’t suggest there were rules against it or that people shouldn’t be allowed to do what they want with their cars. Just congratulating the owner not doing so, as it’s obviously their preference.

[@Spenny909]

There is a young guy near me who drives one of these, possibly his first car, with the roof down and his lady friends in the passenger seats. Living the life.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Lad!

[@sebas112001]

my guy is living the dream!

[@mrdainase]

Good lad!

[@chadisbister1227]

Don’t live near Fleetwood do you 😊

[@JohnCIronside]

Just like to say a big thanks to you James for reviewing my car. As ever, a thoughtful and accurate assessment of the subject. Pleased to see the non-M e46 getting recognition , among the last of the classic BMW style.

[@christopherriley1187]

Yours is in wonderful condition!

[@JohnCIronside]

@ Thankyou!

[@AZ-vg6li]

Being part of the BMW design team back then,very glad you appreciated the design quality on the e46 exterior.This is due to the great work done by the recently so tragically missed Ian Cameron.Together with Eric Goplen,the principal exterior designer of the e46 and under the direction of Chris Bangle a great car was created.Credits to Wolfgang Reitzle who was instrumental in putting a great team together.

[@paulkamara281]

Chris Bangle, wasn't he the guy who.😢...........I know, every time I mention his name my phone starts to smoke😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@dwarfshortage244]

I love my E46 330ci. Completely stock and is my daily driver. It’ll be with me til the end!

[@KeithDumpleton]

Yes, I've had my '06 330ci Coupe for over 5 years and I absolutely love it. In over 50 years driving I've had around 50 cars, and this one is my all-time favourite. Can't imagine ever selling it.

[@paulkamara281]

Stupidly, I sold my 06 Vert😢

[@kellysmith1421]

I still have mine I’ve had X5 and coupe and lots more but I’ve kept my 330ci the longest and I will never sell it 😊

[@MadMike991]

I owned a brand new 2004 325ci manual coupe and I loved it! I couldn’t afford the 330ci. Unfortunately, I sold it a few years later after 23,000 miles when I moved into Manhattan. This really was BMW’s golden era before the turbos, the massive weight gain, and the all wheel drive!

[@simonh870]

They had decent interior build quality too, the E90/92/93 were noticeably worse.

[@SomeOne_86]

@@simonh870 Yep my first time driving a BMW was an E90, and I was shocked at the plastic in the interior, it felt like a McDonald's tray, unacceptable. Otherwise, really liked the car, though I have to mention it didn't treat my friend very well and he sold it in less than a year.

[@simonh870]

@@SomeOne_86 I went from 330ci E46 to E92 330d. The E46 drove better as well, better steering (not electric) and felt more pointy on the corners. I do like the E92 styling, but I think otherwise it was a step backwards.

[@simonh870]

@@rahulmandala4930 Mine was a 2010 model, it wasn't an LCI but it did have EPAS and later N57 engine.

[@SomeOne_86]

@@simonh870 I've never driven an E46, but the E90's steering really did feel very numb. It wasn't as bad as some other electric racks, for example my friend's Corsa D is an absolute nightmare, but it had no feel. I did like how it felt though, the ergonomics, seating position was excellent, the gearbox was pretty good and the engine was punchy even though it was only a 2.2L I think.

[@khalidzraja1669]

I still own a e46 2001 coupe 330ci Individual in Velvet Blue (manual) bought the car back in 2003! Completely stock.

[@Donax695]

that is like the best spec you could find:)

[@khalidzraja1669]

@@Donax695 💯👍🏼

[@timk3939]

330Cis have a lot of charm. You're right, the engine is incredibly linear. The Clubsport weighted gear knob tidies up the gear shift nicely, and the throw is shorter. They cost about £60 new a few years ago. I'd change lambda sensors on cars over 100,000 miles, with OEM/Bosch ones, I did, and gained 4mpg from it. The exhaust smelt rich before I did this. And the service schedule says to do it also at 100,000 miles. About £200 for set of Bosch ones, DO NOT use any other brand (except BMW, which are Bosch ones with a BMW logo). E46s hate any non genuine sensors on the whole, even parking sensors or ABS pressure sensors. Usually they're Siemens/VDO for the underbonnet sensors, except the O2 sensors.

[@akerr911]

I own both, 330ci from new in 2004, current milage 225,000 (last time I checked) unbelievable car. The m3 I have had for nearly 10 years, eats my wallet on a yearly basis, I’m always thinking about selling it but like all these things I’m so upside down in it i might as well keep it. I will add neither cars are daily any more I’m just very sentimental about them. The difference in running costs is eye watering!!

[@partymotorsport]

but why? the only major differenc is the S engine, it cant be that unreliable compared to the M engines

[@ericgman1]

I have an 06 M3 that doesn't live up to the hype either. It exceeds the hype

[@rafsport7702]

As fellow E46 coupe owner, I’m 100% sure that an unmodified 6 cylinder manual will be a future classic

[@MarkB-33]

Mines mapped, lowered, uprated etc just as i want it. So that does not bother me as i will keep this one just as i am my 72 Capri.

[@martincraig3169]

Im sat watching this video in venlo, holland. Travelled here from the UK in a 2003 E46 330 Ci convertible (Manuel 6 speed). Car hasn’t missed a beat, comfortable and fast enough in its own right. The thinking mans m3

[@chrissdavey]

330i’s are already hard to find. Many more 325i’s to be had. Great generation of BMW

[@MarkB-33]

👏👏👏

[@ca9968]

I wholeheartedly agree with you...I went from a 330i 4 door to an E46 m3 and was totally underwhelmed...I sold it and got a 125i Coupe Motorsport and fell in love with the brand all over again...

[@kotarojujo2737]

James, i think the big culprit here is the steering rack. Both m3 e36 (especially 3.2/Evo) and m3 e46 have worse steering feel than their respective base model because base model's slower steering rack actually give you more road feel.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That may be a part of it but not all of it

[@thedetailingdoctor5746]

Exact differences is the m3 has different hubs and wishbones resulting in more camber and more caster. Other than that the steering rack is identical to the club sport jay had and said the steering was amazing 😂 there both purple tag racks the non CS has a silver tag and it’s not better I can attest to that as I had a silver tag In my 328 and upgraded to a purple tag made the front end response so much better and felt much tighter. It’s pretty much impossible for the steering on an m3 to be worse from an engineering standpoint what you and Jay are feeling is placebo. I think it also comes down to what you prefer as a driver a soft and wafty drive or a firm dynamic drive. But jays comments make me laugh it’s not the first time he’s compared his CS to an M3 and said the CS had better steering I mean come on how? Same chassis same rack

[@kevinlogan2306]

The s54 is a iron block the m54 is aluminum block maybe the engine weight

[@adogmcdizzle]

​@@JayEmmOnCars When I got my e46 M3 aligned by someone who actually knew what they were doing the difference was huge. I think they are very sensitive to setup. The steering deadspot was eliminated, the car felt more neutral, felt more planted at speed, and then more composed along yours and my favourite roads. About a year later I had to change the rear heim joints, and that put the alignment out. Car went back to feeling numb again - just from a comparitively small change.

[@Drew-i8g]

Having owned and repaired the e30, e36,e46,m3,e39,M5,z3,z4..... The quicker rack feels better imo. The "differences" between a standard 330 and a m3, really comes down to the condition of the ball joints. Ball joints last around 30,000miles. Most push them many more miles than that. They can be installed wrong , they can be several brands , and materials... But a fresh China set of ball joints, will feel way more crispy than worm out stock ball joint in any e46 chassis..... So done febi or oem replacements when fresh feel amazing. Yes , the other points in this thread make sense, just not as big an effect as the condition of the ball joints/ front control arms.

[@andrewtuff6257]

My first ‘proper car’ was a black 330i from 2005 (bought in 2008). Black, amazing looking 18 inch alloys. That engine was absolutely wonderful, the interior was extremely well made and comfortable and even with the standard exhaust it sounded really good. Never let me down, I traded against a newer 330i, with the direct injection thing and that didn’t look as good and the coil pack failed and far more expensively, the catalyst! Anyway, the original one I wish I’d kept! Top scores for keeping this convertible in such terrific original condition, what a lovely thing! 👍

[@veemacks7255]

I've been saying this forever and nobody ever seems to agree. I've had an M5 and a 550i and the 550i was way better. Same goes for some others I had (Mercedes S500 instead of S63, Mercedes E500 instead of E63, etc). The worse ride just isn't worth it.

[@SomeOne_86]

Depends on the person I'd say, but fair point.

[@SoulTouchMusic93]

It also isn't that much more fun to drive to me if at all. I love having suspension travel over b roads. It keeps the car stable and it won't rattle my fillings loose. I just am able to more fully enjoy the car without the crappy suspension that doesn't suspend.

[@veemacks7255]

@@SoulTouchMusic93 Totally. On a track or maxing it on the autobahn, give me an M/AMG/RS every time. But the other 99.99% of driving, no thanks. For the vast majority I'd want compliant suspension and a quiet exhaust and comfortable seats. If you're driving on the road and needing the benefits of an M/AMG/RS then you're over the safe road limits.

[@PaulinesSon]

Nah depends on the person!!!!... As you just proved... as you said nobody seems to agrees with you... 😂.. For the rest of us, we will put up with a worse ride for way better everything else.. Maybe your just a little bit soft... and that's okay.

[@dion9146]

Drove my friends E46 330ci ZHP 6 speed sedan last weekend. 223k miles, and that car was brilliant. Yes, he has refreshed the suspension and cooling system, but that car was as tight and fun to drive as any new car!

[@carlelfgren6395]

Hear hear! I bought a brand new 330 Coupé in 2000 and kept it for four years. A truly brilliant car.

[@enekoprins]

I have my BMW e46 320Cd since 2006 and have put all it's 400k km (250k miles). Now that I have a GR86 still believe it's an incredible car. Perfectly styled, practical, 0 issues and reasonably sporty even for a Diesel. I will keep it as my daily untill it dies on me. It's still a looker! 😍

[@Danny1282]

Peak bmw design, the e46 is a design classic, the owner has class

[@mosmarb]

My E46 coupé was pre-facelift, they were much better looking than the later cars for me.

[@shammi13]

I have a e46 330i touring (pre facelift) with 86k miles on it. Picked it up in 2021 with 65k on it for £3600. Stock and fully loaded (leather, heated seats, sunroof, cruise control). All the fun and ability to go to the skip (and on holiday) in it. Similar to the chap who owns this, I'm about to buy a 996 carrera as an accompanying car. Have a white toyota mk1 mr2 in the garage that needs a bit of work. These 3 are all the cars I will ever need!

[@BenB91]

Sounds like a bargain now.

[@N3BNO]

I’ve had mine for 17 years and now own a Jaguar XJ and 10 year old M6 and the 330 is by far my favourite to drive. It is also totally standard.

[@jackoconnell2204]

That torque curve make the engine special. Happy to cruise and does not jump to revs, don't need to fight for power. Just an intuitive car

[@tonymoreton7166]

I had an E46 328i for 3 1/2 years and 65k miles, then an E46 M3 for 9 years and 138k miles. The M3 was in a different dimension for me. So, unless the E46 330i was completely different/better than 328i, I'd take the M3 every time. (Now I have an E92 M3 for 14 y & 130k miles - will never sell).

[@ianedmonds9191]

The engine in that car is Ultimate BMW. A massive engine in a small car. Perfect. My boss had one for years and it sounded amazing. Scary quick too.

[@MattWilliams482]

I used to have a 2003 manual E46 330 coupe. It was absolutely sublime. Comfortable, stylish and great fun to drive.

[@MarkB-33]

❤

[@AWMJoeyjoejoe]

Ah my favourite two words when it comes to cars. "Entirely standard." James May would be proud.

[@Ammotive28]

Pre-face lift 330ci - M50 inlet port matched, Bosch green injectors, late-spec coil packs, Decat exhaust manifold, Aux oil pump tensioner, remap with 7k redline, 3.38 final drive diff out of an auto. I've spent less than a grand on the engine, It makes 257bhp but the gearing makes it pretty savage. I f*cking love e46's.

[@xVwraithVx]

Sounds like a beast, did you keep the 3.38 as an open diff ?

[@Ammotive28]

@@xVwraithVx hell no, shes as locked as locked can be. Also has 320d solid shafts. Fresh clutch and the clutch delay valve removed. With my big tyres on the back she just bites and goes.

[@xVwraithVx]

@ nice, did you weld it or swap an lsd into there, considering lsd swapping my 330 cos this open diff gets a bit tedious 😂

[@Gamertrix117]

I had one for 6 years. Couldn’t find anything I preferred more so bought another in a different colour and spec and kept that for 2 years before finding a replacement I preferred.

[@lloydgriffiths1847]

The M3 looks better. And although people, I included, would likely agree with you (yet to watch) there’s something about having the M3 over the 330 or other models that for some people, even though the M car is objectively “worse” on the roads, is worth having because something some people (again, me) have lusted after the M3 for so long that owning one becomes something they need to go through, regardless of if there’s a better alternative. I also reckon a mint fresh M3 on 18” wheels could possibly improve the driving experience

[@JayEmmOnCars]

As an object of desire the M3 is indeed wonderful.

[@lloydgriffiths1847]

@ My comment could have been that short!

[@08mlascelles]

Owning a convertible in Scotland is an utterly bonkers thing to do, and I respect it massively 😂

[@JohnCIronside]

Eh, better make that owning two convertibles in Scotland! The E46 & Boxster S.

[@akar2755]

I used to have 325ci, with M Sport body/suspension/ZHP wheels, silver-grau with red leather. Even when I bought it, it was about 12 years old. Yet it was an amazing looking and very good handling car. I used to get compliments on it all the time. I miss that car so much. I wish I could find a 330ci in the same spec / condition!

[@TheShepTV]

Working my way through recommissioning an '04 manual 330ci coupe with 92k. It's sat out in my driveway and every time I walk past it on my way to my e70 I just smile and get giddy

[@Techjunkiero]

Great example. It looks immaculate and love how the owner keep it stock! To me, the best 3 Series is the E46. It drives wonderfully and looks just awesome, especially like this one the LCI.

[@markcampbell9358]

I have a 2003 E46 330Ci just like this, but in dark blue with tan interior as a week end car. I love it and she will be with me until the end! Great review James! Very honest!

[@markbiggart1265]

I am a proud owner of a 330ci and it’s a fantastic car to drive and own. I will never sell it.

[@MarkB-33]

👍

[@dan3092]

The E46 is one of BMW's greatest hits, many are being scrapped now so only the best will survive any bodied 6 speed manual m sport is worth saving my personal choice is the 325ti Compact a real hidden gem.

[@chrissloan8953]

im 48 and have had many cars in my time my current car of 7 years and the best car i have ever owned is and you guessed it a BMW E46 330CI MSPORT IN TOPAZ Blues 2006

[@LloydBraun11]

I once had a 530i with the same engine, and the best accessory I ever got was a K&N replacement airfilter. The difference in high gear acceleration response and improved fuel efficiency was astounding. (From 27 to 32 MPG, measured on the same 150 mile business-trip)

[@britboy70]

I loved my 330CI. It was a 2006 so had just come off lease as the last fabric top convertible. I traded in my 2001 Boxster S because I needed more seats for my inherited children oh, and I had to convert the garage into a living room. Was a great car until my daughter wrote it off. She and her friend were fine which is testament to how safe they are.

[@soriar000440761]

I got this same 2005 330ci with 172,000 miles. True beast. Love it!

[@Lawdachris]

Loved my 330ci, stuck 50k of fun miles on it over the years, saved up to upgrade to an M3, sold it to go for the M3 and life happened, had to buy a house. VX220s were at a low, so the house and a VX was the financially easier (and driving experience) better choice. Sold the VX after a few years and went to an RX8. Still haven’t had an M3 but very happy with my E81 130i, which still has the non ruinous potential running costs, but all the driving experience of the 330ci. Haven't looked about getting in to an M3 since I sold the 330ci...some 12 and a half years ago.

[@NickV1978]

Had my 330ci for over 10 years and have slowly upgraded it to be able to take on the Nordschleife with the principle approach of keeping it looking as standard as possible, I didn't want to change it too much for all the reasons you mention BUT for anyone who wants a cool daily that also works on the track these make for a perfect platform: Birds BMW will sort the suspension and differential, Redish Motorsport will strengthen the rear end so it doesn't crack into 20 pieces and there are a host of upgrades that replace many plastic parts with aluminium (cooling system, DISA, valve cover etc)... Also the oil pump upgrade is essential as the reverse threaded nut likes to undo itself at sustained high revs.... Done loads of other bits as well but it still looks like a standard Orient Blue Sport Coupe and I love it! Cool video 👍

[@pezzonovante888]

I've driven several examples of both the E46 330 and M3 and I too have always had the same "controversial" preference for the non-M car. But perhaps even more controversially... drum roll... I think the 4dr and the Cab look way better than the Coupe. A facelift 4dr or Cab are the only versions that really interest me. "No Coupe for you!" Kudos to the owner for keeping that car beautiful.

[@femountain]

Drum roll again, or buy in my opinion the best car ever built, E39 530i. Little slower, little less fun to drive compare to 330i. But so much better comfort, space and much lower insurance cost.

[@mickstereftb]

I've had my E46 320cd 2005 for almost 10 years now. It's had a little tune but mostly all stock. It's my daily driver and I've put almost 90000 miles on. I love it.

[@bispal]

My early 330i E46, with a 5 speed manual, would do 36 mpg at a constant 80mph. Was quiet, refined and comfortable at that speed. Its currently for sale, 1999 model with 18k miles on the clock! I'm tempted to buy it back.

[@andrewb325]

I believe you. Having owned the 2.8L version, I’m a big fan of the non-M versions of the straight 6.

[@victorvivaudou132]

I had a 2002 e46 330ci ‘vert for 5 years. I.Loved. It!!! My wife made me get rid of it when our daughter was born😢. I got a gen1 Clubman S to haul the kid around tho. In 2020, I picked up a 2009 128i Sport ‘vert. I love it more. It is my other baby and a garage queen. My daily is another gen1 tuned Clubman S that drive like I stole it. My Daughter who is now a teen, wants my Mini as her first car. (All cars in this post were/are manuals)

[@dasstig5274]

I had an E46 330Ci for a year when I lived in the UK. Cost 1800 quid, Was nicely optioned with sunroof and leather, M-sport body kit and 18 inch wheels. Great car, would have kept it but it wasn't practical to ship it home all the way to new zealand.

[@kip8790]

Just sold my 330i touring after owning it from a year old. Only things I had to replace other than regular maintenance items were oil gaskets, keys and door actuator. Absolutely awesome car and very sad to see it go. I now have 130i the same as the one you had, and I’m not so keen on the engine but it is quicker.

[@steveburroughs7343]

In about 2006 my local BMW garage lent me a 330ci and an M3 on consecutive weekends. I bought the 330.

[@elijahcarr4137]

They both have a straight six. I went to get a 330ci but found a cheap pre lci 325ci so made the compromise and turns out this one is a bit more economical and more reliable so a win. Very fun car for the summer

[@willdabeastIam]

I've loved these cars since I was a kid and they were new. Always wanted one, cooling system issues and all. My little brother was sold a "non-working" 325Ci by a neighbour for the princely sum of...1 Canadian dollar. Turned out the MAF was unplugged. I drove it a few times (including once when it puked it's guts EVERYWHERE, my warning about the coolant expansion tank not having been heeded). Sounded great, but with an auto, it wasn't that great to drive. I'm 6'5", and the biggest problem with these cars is the windshield line relative to the roof bubble. Square in the centre of my vision, nightmare to drive and requires almost double focus. Fast forward a few years, a fraternity brother of mine had (and still has) a 330Ci M-Sport. I figured the sports seats would put me lower, and I might actually enjoy the drive. They definitely do, but it's a sunroof car so things kinda net out. It was an absolute blast to drive. Tight, revs quick, sounds gorgeous, incredible weight transfer...and I can't do more than about 15 minutes in one for comfort reasons. Alas, a car I'll always want but never own.

[@MisterChips]

I bought my 2002 E46 330ci (in the most basic Titanium Silver/Black spec you could imagine) 5-speed manual in 2011 as the third owner of the car; I ran it for 13 years and 150,000 km overall - it was a fun car, but I ran basically the entire gamut of E46 problems with mine; cooling systems (replaced twice over), CCV issues in the dead cold of Canadian winter (that somehow I miraculously avoided blowing the engine up each time), DISA valve issues and countless bushing replacements. In spite of all that, the car never stranded me once in those 13 years (though it came close a few times), and it was a handsome and fun companion for many adventures. Towards the end of my ownership, the car was really very well-sorted out; for anyone running these, I would highly recommend swapping to polyurethane bushings if only because they are infinitely more durable than the stock rubber bushings. I will also contest that the car is reasonably competent in winter too; on a set of good winter tires, I only ever had issues on days when the snow was so deep that the car would just high-centre. I was a little sad to see it go back in March of 2024 when I sold it, having moved into a current-gen M440i xDrive coupe, but also I was a bit relieved too, since the car was facing some very expensive maintenance in the following couple of years (a clutch and a nose-to-tail driveline bushing replacement, for starters), and it was starting to get pretty rusty in all the usual trouble spots; the sills right behind the front wheels, and the "dirt trap" in the rear quarters, right behind the rear wheel arches.

[@adammoonface]

Had my 2001 330ci for 3 years. It had been my grandfather's from new and came to me with just 42k on the clock. I daily it and it now has 85k on it. It has been an absolute joy! Mine is a coupe, non sunroof, se with cloth interior and is on 17s, so it's considerably lighter than most and goes like the clappers. £250 a year insurance and I get 32mpg on the commute.

[@Jean-Paul_1984]

I was always telling everyone I preferred my E46 328 coupe (manual) over my E46 M3 coupe (also manual). Nobody believed me, so happy to hear you have similar experiences

[@erwh1]

In drove my 2004 330ci manual until it had 335k kms on the clock. Loved the driving, adored the sound of the NA straight 6 (much better than my current F11 535i) and was surprised by the excellent reliability. The (beige) interior was of such high quality. The leather still looked fresh after all those kilometers, the touch and feel of the buttons were of much higher quality than anything on sale today and the design remains timeless to this day. Fantastic car!

[@phillipevans9414]

A few years back I had an e46 325Ci (with MSport pack) - I owned it for about 2 years, and whilst it was no ball of fire, it was brisk enough to be fun, it was comfortable enough, had great balance and roadholding, and just felt solid, reliable and special...made every drive an enjoyable "experience". At the time I had the e46, I also had a large SUV for practicality/donkey work, and eventually sold both and bought a Skoda Superb Tdi as my daily (I'm nearly 60 and the e46 was becomming more effort getting in and out, hahaha), which I love for different reasons. Still have very fond memories of my e46 though, and I'm sure they wil be a sought after classic in time. Cheers!

[@mikedockal8978]

I'm with you on taking the 330 over M3. It is a perfect daily driver where the M3 is a compromised sports car wannabe.

[@MikeWashe-o6v]

The perfect E46 was never offered in Europe. Offered only in North America, the E46 330i ZHP is the best E46. Only about 6500 were made and they came with hotter cams, a reported (conservative IMO) 10 extra Horse Power, 500 more RMPs, a better steering rack than the M3, M3 trim, a fantastic sport suspension and the same wheels as the car in this video. Special treatment was given to the interior as well. The interior trim of the car in this video was not offered in N. America except for standard in the ZHP, as well an alcantara M3 steering wheel, shifter and parking brake boots. My two favorite details are a special gauge cluster with orange needles and ZHP only muffler that gives the upgraded M54 motor a sweet sporty tone. I have heard the ZHP described as a "baby M" with about 80% of the fun at half the cost. I agree. I was fortunate enough to find one of the less desirable spec'd models in a condition and price my poor budget could afford (the best ones go for M3 prices). My little E46 ZHP sedan handles like a fine sports car and is ridiculously quick (if not fast) for daily traffic without the maintenance issues of the M3. (for reference, an E46 ZHP can just beat an E36M (American version) in a drag race) It is truly the perfect E46.

[@rstiff81]

I got my first car the 330ci m from 2003 September and i still have it today. After expanding my garage for 20 years I now own quite a few cars ie huracan, exige 430, sls bs, 991 3rs, 458, Bentley cgt, z4m and even the 46m3 I would like to say nothing brings more of a smile to my face than downshifting this car from third to second. This car is my one true love and the only car I still wash by myself. And yes the 46m3 and z4m maybe more raw and faster but the 330ci sounds throatier.😮

[@tomlegge4880]

I’ve got a manual 6-speed, facelift (which I prefer the looks of - I know, wrong-un); I’ve no idea how it compares with the M3, and I don’t drive it much nowadays, but whenever I do, I remember why I still keep it! I sometimes see others on the road, and think “Christ, that’s a nice looking car”, before my brain fully registers what it is, and that I’ve got one!

[@jamesstaggs4160]

I've had two E46s, a beautiful 330i and a 325xi that was a basket case. I've also had a 1995 325is that I regret selling since you can't find them any longer. I've now graduated to a 2005 545i that a previous owner had the engine hopped up a little bit. Thought I'd miss those great BMW I6s but the sound of the V8 is rather intoxicating. Hard to beat an E46 in the handling department though and that I do miss. They are nimble little things. I'm actually considering selling my 93 Miata (totally stock of course) and finding a nice 330 again. The NA Miata is iconic but it's like driving a tin can. Plus as much as I like meeting other gear heads I'm a bit tired of literally getting asked multiple times "How much do you want for it" every time I drive it.

[@slickill5738]

"Funny" you should make this video, as the only BMW I ever owned was an coupe 2003 330 CXi w/sport pck. I loved that car, it practically drove itself yet allowed me some fun when I pushed it. Nicest ride comfort and handling car for me to date. It also was my only car to date that allowed me to go 100 + mph up a fairly steep grade. I felt like I was glued to the road. w/o being in a stiff sports car. I had NO idea it was such a coveted car among BMW's history until watching this video. Thank you!

[@Simdel96]

I've had my E46 330ci convertible for about 6 years. Fast enough, lovely handling and a beautiful sound. It's been a great family car (with two growing kids) and feels like an event every time I drive it. Which isn't very often because it's been horrendously unreliable. It's been off the road more than it's been on it. It's broken again now in fact. I might have to replace it with a 440...

[@394pjo]

Your annunciation is perfect. You do our language proud and its a bloody pleasure to listen to you.

[@dwn2634]

I've owned an E46 330i MSport (manual 4 door saloon), the Z4M Coupe and the Z4 Coupe 3.0si. I haven't owned an E46 M3, but I can say that my experience with all engines and driving experiences would always steer me towards the 330i or Z4 coupe 3.0si. All of the joy with none of the anxieties. Not as dramatic, of course but so much more rewarding to drive.

[@HiruS22]

I love mine, though it spends the winter in the garage. Also, for any fellow cab owners, I've got a little module wired into mine that allows you to put the roof up or down at up to about 25mph, makes it a bit less fraught if you need to deploy it at traffic lights

[@ChuckFickens1972]

Ha, I loved my E46 325Ci and wished in so many ways I didn't sell it, however I did sell it because I was looking at having to do more miles for work and wanted something more economical, so, what did I get to replace it..... a R56 Mini cooper S john cooper works.... Yes, something less economical and way way less reliable! This was maybe not the smartest move I ever made!!!

[@Cabriofahrer2]

I bought a new 330 convertible like this one (but in estoril-blue) almost 21 years and still own it. It is in mint condition. It has 250k km and has never broken down. Truth is that I have to spend like 1000€ per to keep it clear from any worries. I still like it!

[@jayjuggrnaut]

I used to own the little brother, a 2001 320Ci Coupe with a manual transmission in Sienna Red. I think I bought it with 70k miles on it. It was an absolutely phenomenal car to drive...when it wasn't at the repair shop.

[@DrivinZ]

I had this car in convertible and the M3 coupe - both in manual. The E46 is far better just for the amazing engine. But I also had the e93 M3 - and would rather have that car than the E46 M3.

[@carlosbonilla1637]

Haven’t even watched this video yet.. but you are spot on.. after owning a clean e46M3 manual, it was “meh” at best.. the 330ci is waay better than these M3s… You are 100% right

[@TwoDollarGararge]

I sold my Z4 2 months ago watching this makes me want that car back despite being a massive pain in the ass.

[@davidparkin9017]

460 mile range. 25.2 mpg. Best brakes ever. Cooling systems lives for five years. I added the comprehensive Guage cluster, volt meter, oil temperature, oil pressure. Windows need service every four years. Happy driving at 90-120mph. A bit of road noise. Choice between E46 330i and E39 530i. Manual of course.

[@rabbitboy008]

Had an E46 compact back in the day this had a quicker steering rack than any other E46 fact

[@mickeysmouse4800]

Awesome cars. Had one too. Looked awful, drove impeccably.

[@simonh870]

I had a 330ci Msport coupe, terrific car. The only problems were that being a 5 speed manual it really needed another gear. It was also a bit worn out and tired before it came to me.

[@nathandepasquale9571]

Always wanted one of these. BMW at its best in terms of design. Classic and sleek. Even better in cab form IMO 👌

[@CommunityGameplays]

I have a 325i and had an E46 M3 with carbon airbox. To me the experiences were/are so different they are hard to compare

[@yhp99]

I believe the version youre driving is the "zhp" packaged 330ci. Tighter suspension and steering rack with upgraded wheels and 10+ extra horsepower from more aggressive cams. Ive had the zhp prior to owning my current e46 m3. And zhps are in fact absolutely glorious drivers cars. BUT i will say that my e46 m3 is simply better imo.

[@ianedmonds9191]

You have to say the E46 looks are like the Merc SL350 completely timeless and always going to be elegant and revered.

[@nicebloke6066]

Great video. I have an e46 330 Touring 6speed. Bought it about 7 years ago on 145k miles and it’s on 207k miles now and I love it. The arches are unfortunately shot and it’s generally pretty tired but it’s such a great drive with a wonderful engine, even after so many miles. I’m actually looking at replacing it with an e63 630 but after your comments tempted to keep the e46 as well… PS 40mpg on a run is possible, 35+ without trying too hard. Incredible for an old school 3.0 straight 6.

[@doug339]

Mid 00's cars were the peak of usable power. Today's cars are just increasing power numbers for the sake of marketing, there is little practicality on the road other than claiming a 0-60 time. The most fun I have had driving in ages was a fiat 500 manual that I could probably beat on foot in a 100 meter race.

[@paulk1702]

Lucky enough to have had 3 E46's: 51 330ci [Imola, 5 speed, cloth/alcantara. I upgraded from a cassette to CD; no other options], 53 330ci Clubsport [Estoril (which I'd always wanted, but couldn't stretch to an M), 6 speed, black nappa, sat nav, HK], 05 M3 Cab [Avus, SMGII (had a bad back by then!), matching hood (and hardtop!), champagne. All were fantastic, in their own way. But for 'feeling/emotion at the time,' nothing could top the first one.

[@fred3527]

I bought an E46 330i sedan manual when it came out in 2000 and drove it until 2010. Best car I have ever owned. The three new BMW's I bought after that were a real disappointment to me. (Next gen 323i, F10 520d & 535d, all auto's). I drove a 2003 330CSi auto in 2018 and was really disappointed as to how the auto gearbox ruined that perfect engine. Absolutely, I still would have had the E46 M3 over my 330i if the price wasn't so prohibitive at the time. E46 M3 represents peak BMW to me.

[@porkster5924]

I’ve always loved the E46 and my 330Ci Coupe. Up until the point it’s Vanos system went pop 🤦‍♂️ The E46 though still is the prettiest BMW ever.

[@paulyoung22]

I loved my 2002 330Ci. Sold it in 2012 for a 5 series due to having a growing family. Still remember the number plate and look it up every year to see if it's still alive (it is).

[@Greygoose3130]

I had a 323ci and it really was an amazing car

[@simonworby]

1. You don't have to be stationary to operate the roof. But you do have to be going very slowly. 2. You can switch traction control partly off or fully off. Short press on the button = partly off, long press fully off.

[@eriksigge4059]

That M54B30 is a superb engine, love mine paired with a stick shift

[@branuHD]

My grandparents own a 2003 325i convertible in Velvet blue and even today still looks so nice. Only 60k miles too so barely run in!

[@MontgomeryPisswhistle]

In 2014 I had a need to travel around the country and bought a car which has turned out to be the best car I've ever owned: a 2006 E46 330D Coupe (330 CDM). I've actually used mine, though and now it's on 175K. It's been ultra-reliable, comfortable and quick enough for general use. It's showing its mileage now, with some rust but I've bought a run-around to enable me to take the E46 off the road, to show it the love it ABSOLUTELY deserves. I thoroughly love my car and it's been a big part of my life. I'm worried whether I'll be able to buy diesel to feed it in a few years so it might end up a 330i - we shall see. Edit: I should have stated that I've added over 100K trouble-free miles onto the car in my ownership, so just over 4 times around the world 😁😁

[@wayneo7373]

I bought a E46 325 ci in July and love it despite the previous owners modifications which I could do with removing it's almost on 160k and still drives nicely. 😎

[@edward1591]

Just such a well resolved and cohesive design. I had the E36 328i, and loved it, and this was a genuine step forward - I missed it and went to a 330 E92 which was lovely but simply not an advance. Too dull inside and out.

[@HD33P1]

I had a 325Ci sport for nine years. It was serviced by a specialist every year I had it. I sold it in 2020 just before convid. I paid £3,800 for it and sold it for £1,200. It had 160,000 miles on it when I sold it. Someone still has it in Ireland with 168,000 miles on it. Still the car I kept the longest. I now have an e46 M3 SMG 2. It was supposed to be a weekend car. But then it wasn’t getting driven much and I had to pay for storage. So I decided to keep it as my only car. I find at normal road speeds there's not much difference. But the M3 is completely another level when you put your foot down. Neither car holds a candle to the Lexus LS600H. I had to sell that particular car because of insurance costs. £2,500 a year! I did buy it without looking at the insurance costs. But at 36 with 12 years no claims I didn’t expect there to be an issue as most others probably wouldn’t. I’m now trying to sell my e46 M3 to buy an e92 M3 or another Lexus LS600H. I just can’t live without the refinement

[@wafflesnfalafel1]

I had a boss with one of those, except in silver and the US spec got the 5 spd manual. Beautiful car and that gen in particular I think really had one of the best suspension handling vs ride compromises of any car I've ever ridden in .

[@ESKATEUK]

Owned a 330ci, was a fantastic car. It was in the family since 2001 and in my ownership from 2015-2020. Loved every moment. However after driving an m3, they’re not even comparable. The m3 engine is superior, the handling is better.. don’t know what e46 m3’s you’ve been driving, but it feels like a 330ci on steroids.