2004 330ci: A great driving car, let down by an inflated price and design issues
Written: Jul 05 '04 (Updated Jul 07 '04)
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Pros: Handling, Acceleration, Styling, Suspension, engine growl
Cons: Interior Design, overpriced, design flaws
The Bottom Line: A dream car to look at and drive, but ownership uncovers problems that can't be observed on just a test drive.
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| callycarexpert's Full Review: 2004 BMW 330 |
My friend had wanted a BMW 3-Series Coupe since they came out in 2000. Finally, six months ago he took the plunge and bought himself a new 2004 330ci. As much as he loves driving it, he has had some issues with it, making him almost sorry he had purchased his dream car.
The 330ci’s styling is beautiful; it’s simple and elegant, and it will look good for years to come. As a current owner of a last generation B.M.W 7-Series, I am not a huge fan of B.M.W’s new styling direction. I think there new cars are clunky looking and have lost the beauty of the older BMW’s. Fortunately, for at least another few years, the current three series coupe will continue to look and drive as great as it currently does.
This is a review of a 2004 330ci, which means it has the 225 horsepower inline-6 with, and is a two-door coupe. Compared to a 325xi I have also driven, I feel like my friends’ 330ci is a much better value at $41,500 (only a few thousand more then the 325xi sedan). Unlike the 3-Series sedan, the coupe doesn’t have as many competitors, which makes it seem more special and worth its price. However, I personally think the coupe is at least $5,000 overpriced. You get a great driving experience, spoiled by a sub-par interior, and according to my friends, serious design flaws which detract from the overall ownership experience.
( This review is similar to my review of a 325xi, yet differs in engine performance and my friends ownership experience among other things)
Interior: Stepping into the 330ci is similar to stepping into any other 3-Series interior. In my opinion, the dashboard is definitely looking dated. It’s not that the interior is ugly; it just doesn’t cut it compared to interiors of Audi’s, Acura’s, and Lexus’s that cost less money.
Most of the materials seem to be of good quality, yet I am disappointed by the quality of the leather. It is much rougher and less luxurious then other cars in its class. The trade off for this (as noted by used 3-Series on the dealers lot and my own experience) is that over time the leather holds up a lot better then many of the Japanese cars that I have owned or seen used.
For a coupe, the 330ci is relatively roomy inside. The backseat has a good amount of leg and headroom, and the front is pretty spacious. Also the trunk was pretty big, and it had folding seats for larger items.
Driving Impressions: Some may say who cares about the interior, its all about the way the Bimmer drives and handles. The 330ci drove amazing. My driving position was about perfect, and B.M.W. sure does know how to make great seats, and the 330ci was no exception. Even though the car didn’t have the sport package and its sport seats, I still was supported nicely and felt very comfortable. Similar to the 3-Series sedan, I wish the center armrest could be raised higher.
One of the most interesting things about a B.M.W. engine is how they always seem more powerful then their horsepower would suggest. The 225 horses move this car with great authority. If you step on the gas, you WILL get pushed back in your seat. You have to become adjusted to the throttle, as it can be a bit jumpy at lower speeds. Every time you step on the gas, you are rewarded with a deep growl of the inline-six. The engine really screams.
Everyone knows how well BMW’s handle, and this 330ci was no different. It corners extremely flat and stable. This 330ci came with the M wheel, which has great feel, and is very communicative. Road imperfections are translated through the wheel. The ride of the Bimmer is very tightly controlled, and you pretty much feel everything happening underneath you. It can get uncomfortable on bumpy stretches of roads; just don’t expect a very smooth and comfortable ride, that’s not what the 3-Series is all about.
Since buying his 330ci earlier this year, my friend has pulled off his bumper while parking three times. He is not a bad driver, but the front of the car is so low that he has trouble figuring out how far to pull up without damaging his car. Right now his front bumper is being held together with masking tape. Not so attractive for a six month old B.M.W.
Also, his side rocker panel fell off, and it was replaced under warranty. My friend is also frustrated with the automatic climate control, as it doesn’t hold temperatures well. When he uses his defogger hot air is blown into his face, and the entire car becomes very warm. The dealer can come up with no solutions to his problems, and say thats just how the car is. He also is not satisfied with the interior quality. Overall he loves the cars driving characteristics, but is disappointed with the above stated problems.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 41,500
Condition: New
Model Year: 2004
Model and Options: Automatic, premium package
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callycarexpert
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Reviews written: 12
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