I thought I'd take a different approach to the car Epinion. This one will be about comparing the 325 and the 330 models of BMW's most popular 3-series for the year 2001. I will go through the differences, the options and what they are intended for, so you can make a decision as to which one is right for you.

Note: This Epinion is meant to be a "shopper's guide" for those comparing within the 3-series. For a traditional car review, please go to my website at http://www.325Ci.com/ for a comprehensive, updated reviews of the car.

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YEAR 2000 VS. 2001
Besides the offering of all-wheel drive as an option (for sedans and 325 "sport wagon") and the new M3 (drool, drool), there isn't any major changes to the 3-series for the year 2001. It is still based on what BMW calls the "E46" body. The change worth talking about is the change in name (323 is now called 325, and the 328 is now called 330) which corresponds to the change in engine horsepower/torque and displacement for the 2001 models. The 330 is a 3.0L engine (vs. last year's 2.8L) that offers 225hp (up from 193hp), and the 325 still remains a 2.5L engine from last year, but the horsepower has been upgraded to 185hp from 170hp. That may be enough reason to get a 2001 model over last year's.

Other changes are bigger brakes in both models, more safety features (2-stage front airbags, Dynamic Brake Control- it senses an emergency braking situation and helps apply more pressure for you, much like Mercedes's Brake Assist), and better wheels are standard (e.g. classy 5-spoke star on the 325Ci). Supposedly the much-debated "soft/boosted" steering wheel feel of the 2000 models have stiffened up a bit in 2001, but only enthusiasts will probably care or notice this. If this is your first BMW, you'll never know what the debate is about-- I personally can't tell the difference. I'm so used to over-boosted power steering found in American luxury cars (it's called "I can do a U-turn with my thumb!"), that even the 2000 steering feels tight to me with good feedback from the road... If you've driven an older 3-series (E36), you'll probably complain, so there's no sense in me trying to convince you. UPDATE: BMW is now offering to "fix" the steering via a retrofit if you want the stiffer steering feel, free of charge as warranty work.
-> VERDICT: 2001, unless you find a 2000 model below invoice price.

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325 VS. 330
For the year 2001, the 3-series come in a variety of models. The first distinction is between the 325 and the 330. The former has a 2.5L inline-6, 24-valve engine that offers 185hp. The 330 comes with a 3.0L inline-6, 24-valve engine with 225 hp, but you pay dearly for that extra horsepower. (About $6000 more for the 330Ci (coupe) than the 325Ci, or $7000 difference between the 330 and 325 sedans.) That's the most important difference between the 325 and the 330. Which one do you choose? First, look in your wallet and see what you have. Got money to burn? Go for it, get the 330. You can definitely feel the extra horsepower at work when you drive the 330 versus the 325. Your budget is pretty tight? Well, get the 325, but don't feel bad: this car has plenty of juice and it drives and handles just like the 330, that is, it drives very well and sticks to the road like bubble gum on the soles of your shoes. The smaller engine is just as fun to drive as the bigger one. I chose the 325. I have better things in which to invest the extra money (such as ordering options on the car), and I'm not the one for racing strangers on the streets to show off how much horsepower my car has. (Note: the station wagon only comes in 325 form).
-> VERDICT: 325

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HOW MANY DOORS?
Now within those models, you can have your car in coupe, sedan, station wagon, or convertible form. I think the coupe version looks better than the sedan version: they look very similar, but if you look closely almost all of their body panels are different, as BMW claims: the coupe is longer and wider, and the lights are all thinner. The coupe in its standard form is already "tuned" for sportier driving than the sedan, even without the optional "Sports Package" (see below)-- the coupe has sports-tuned suspension (stiffer suspension and car is lower), 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel, and fog-lights, which are all standard on the coupe but come as part of the Sports Package of the sedan. Well, that's sort of the reason why the coupe costs more than the sedan. It's one of the few carmakers that charge more for a coupe than a sedan, because the coupe has more features and it's the sportier of the two. But for practicality (you have children or you carry passengers regularly), if you have to get the sedan and I will say to you that the room in the back of the sedan is quite spacious it will delightfully surprise you. For the year 2001, the sedan and station wagon also comes in the "xi" configuration which offers a full-time all-wheel drive. That is in response to the popularity of Audi's Quattro and other all-wheel drive sedans/wagons, and it may be a selling point for those of you looking for all-wheel drive. Unfortunately, no other BMW models have the all-wheel drive (e.g. not on coupes or convertibles). A station wagon with all-wheel drive (325xi only) will make a great alternative for an SUV shopper: it offers the capacity to carry a decent amount of luggage, while still giving you the performance and handling characteristics of a car.

I'm going to talk about the coupe in the next section (Options) because 1. That's what I got, and 2. Most reviews of 3-series have been about their sedans, so I want to offer something for the coupe shoppers. I chose the coupe mainly because I've been driving family sedans all my (short) life and was in the market for a coupe only, and I will not be carrying passengers on a regular basis. Ten years down the line, I probably would have chosen the sedan. So the choice really comes down to what your practical driving needs are. The same goes for the convertible models (the priciest version of the 3-series): it's not for practicality, but it's really fun to drive especially in areas that are warm all-year round. But remember, with the top up, convertibles cover your blind spot and you'll have get used to using the side mirrors to switch lanes and such.
-> VERDICT: Depends on your passenger-carrying and driving needs. I chose the coupe.

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OPTIONS
So let's see. You've now narrowed it down to either the 325 or 330, and you know how many doors you want on your car. Let's take a look at the options (coupe), with the value-minded shopper in mind (if you have infinite money to spend and love gadgets, your choice is easy: get all of the options!):

Metallic Paint:
I thought it was ridiculous that you have to pay extra for little sparkles in the paint of your car, especially when you're shelling out around $30K or more for a car. But yes, this *is* an option and it's probably something you'll get anyway, considering that the only non-metallic paint colors are black, white, and red. I didn't want those colors, I wanted the Topaz Blue, so I paid for it. $475 to be exact. Grrrr.
-> VERDICT: Curse out BMW, then get it.

5-Speed "Steptronic" Automatic or 5-speed manual transmission:
You probably know which one you want. The dealers in your area may not have any BMWs in manual transmission (a shame, but that's the way it is around here), so you probably don't have a choice if you don't want to custom order your car and wait. In which case, I say that the "Steptronic" is actually a pretty nice auto transmission. It's very smooth, and although the "manual shifting without a clutch" takes few minutes to get used to (tap it up to shift up, tap it down to shift down), it does allow for some control over the shifting of gears, but remember that it is not a real stick shift. And there is a slight delay when you "shift" and when the car responds (especially when downshifting hard (5th to 3rd/2nd)), but it's not that noticeable under normal conditions. This is probably the most practical choice for people in urban areas, where stop-and-go commuting traffic is the norm and you have maybe the weekend to actually "drive" the car. Although I think with the 325, the automatic will take away the ability to squeeze every last bit of horsepower out of the engine, but there's plenty of juice there. The shifter is one of the smoothest shifters I've tried: it has a nice positive click and the right amout of resistance. The Reverse gear is to the left of First, but there is enough resistance to prevent you from shifting into R accidentally. The clutch travel is about average and takes an average amount of force, but everything is very smooth and forgiving, making it easy for a first-time manual shifting driver.
-> VERDICT: Manual transmission on the 325, unless you use this as a commuter car in stop-and-go traffic everyday.

Leather or Leatherette:
You won't believe this, but the leatherette actually looks and feels like real leather. You have to touch it and see it for yourself. Okay, I'll admit that if you let me inspect it very closely, I can tell the difference, but most people won't be able to tell the difference. While I'll say that the leather in the 3-series is pretty decent, I don't think it's worth the $1000+ when the leatherette will do. I feel that the leather is not very forgiving/plush and it is stretched too tight over the seats. Plus the leatherette will be easier to take care of. Think of it this way: Leatherette = Leather without the leather smell and without the $1450 price tag. Unless you really have to have that dead animal skin stretched under your buttocks, I suggest passing on this option.
-> VERDICT: Leatherette

Regular 10-speaker stereo system (Cassette/Radio, pre-wired for 6-CD changer) or in-dash CD or Harman Kardon upgrade:
I've never owned a "luxury" car or a car with a $5000 stereo system. (I'm moving up from an '88 Buick Century sedan for godssake!) I think the factory speaker system on the 3-series sound awesome. Very clear, good amount of bass, and the sound just feels nice and tight, with minimal distortion across the band. The radio controls can use some work, however, since there are no labels for the buttons except for these little European-looking icons. I see no point in upgrading to the Harmon Kardon premium speakers (UPDATE: all 330 models from mid-2001 come standard with HK, so this argument is pointless). Only exception is if you're an audiophile, but then you probably would want your own aftermarket stereo upgrade anyway, with more choices in brands and configurations, so in either case, the factory stereo is the "right" choice. You can choose to get the in-dash CD or the Cassette (with option to add the 6-CD changer later-- but it's expensive). That depends on what you listen to in the car: CDs or Cassettes or both. I don't like trunk-mounted CD changers because you can't just pop in a random CD when you want to hear that CD from the comfort of your driver's seat.
-> VERDICT: Standard stereo system. Audiophiles will get better aftermarket parts anyway, so the HK upgrade is unnecessary for everyone.

Sports Package:
On the coupe, the sports package gives you only these extras: larger wheels (17"x8" instead of 16"x7" on 325) and wider performance tires 225/45R-17 (instead of all-season 205/55R-16 tires). Note: on a 330 Sports Package, the wheels are "staggered": you get 2 rear wheels (17"x8.5") which are wider than the 2 front wheels(17"x7.5"), an upgrade from the four standard 17"x8" wheels. Also included is a manual "sport seat." The sport seats have thicker side and thigh bolsters. I found the sport seats to be very firm yet comfortable, and very supportive. The wheel/tire upgrade itself is well worth the $1000, although I prefer simple 5-star spokes over what BMW offers. The seats are an added bonus, making this package the most-stuff-for-your-dollar package. On the sedan, you get the wheel/tires and the seat as well, but you also get all the necessary upgrades to bring your sedan to the "coupe" level: that is, fog lights, sports-tuned suspension, 3-spoke steering wheel. I strongly recommend this package with these disclaimers: if you drive in areas that snow, you'll need to get a set of winter tires/wheels. Also, performance tires cost more to replace and will wear out quicker than all-season tires, and ride quality is slightly sacrificed. I find that the Michelin Pilot HX MXM that came with my car provides good cushion from road imperfections while offering great traction.
-> VERDICT: Great value for a $1000 option. Be prepared for extra expenses and trade-offs, however.

Premium Package:
You want all the luxuries on your new Bimmer? This is the package. But take a good look at what's in the package and see if you will actually need everything. If you only need one or two things on the Premium Package list, then you're better off getting them as separate options. I personally don't like sun/moonroof in a car: cuts down on headroom and it's one more thing that could break. The genuine Myrtle Wood trim will not be for everyone, but I think it's tastefully done and it's not fake wood, so it actually looks classy and nice, although I wish it didn't have that glossy finish (matte is classier). If you're getting Sand interior color, the wood will coordinate nicely and balance the black of the dashboard with the brown of the interior. Memory seats are a nice feature (up to three people can have different seat positions, mirror and climate settings, etc.), but if you're the only one driving this car, then why bother? Other items on the package are auto-dimming rear view mirrors, right side mirror that adjust down when you're in reverse gear (I find this annoying: you can disable this), rain sensors (330 only) that activate and modulate the speed of the your wipers when it rains (Again, nice gadget but I would rather control this myself!).
-> VERDICT: Take a good look at individual options in the package: It might make more sense to buy them separately or to just pass on it altogether.

Automatic Climate Control (UPDATE: now standard on all 3-series, so the following does not apply to post-mid-2001 cars):
If you're like me, you prefer to adjust the fan and temperature yourself. The manual climate control on the 325 is standard dial type and they are big and located right under the CD/Cassette player, at steering wheel level on the dash. However, I like the reasoning behind automatic climate control: you set the temperature and the car adjusts the A/C for you. But in reality, it's a bit annoying because the fan will blow at maximum setting once you set the temperature (to try to quickly match your desired setting) and to turn down the fan, you have to press a little button many times to do it (no dial controls, which are more user-friendly). Also, there are times when I don't want any heat or A/C when I'm driving: e.g. on a 3-minute drive to the grocery store. Well, with the automatic control, you'll have to turn it off yourself after you start your car, because that A/C will be blowing in your face as soon as you start up! This defeats the "set once and leave it alone" purpose of the auto climate control. But yes, it's a nice luxury feature.
-> VERDICT: Don't get it (on a 325), unless you're used to this sort of climate control on your current car.

Cold Weather Package:
If you live in a place that snows a lot, I recommend getting this option. The package comes with heated headlight washers and heated "butt warmers" for the front seats, as well as a ski bag. You can get the heated seats as a separate $500 option, by the way, but not the headlight washers. The package a bit pricey at $700, but I'm sure it's better than regretting not getting it as you get into your snow-covered, 30 degrees cold car in the middle of winter. Or you could DIY it (Do-It-Yourself) and get a heating pad and put it on your seat and plug it into your car lighter (I've seen these).
-> VERDICT: Where do you live? It may be worth it if it reaches freezing temperatures for many months in your area.

Xenon Headlights:
I'm bummed that this is not standard equipment on this car, but at the same time glad that they are offered as an option. I'm sure you've seen cars with these headlights on the streets even if you don't know what a Xenon HID is: you can't miss their blue-tint and ultra-brightness. They look like fluorescent lights on crack: their beams are very white, almost blue (rather than yellowish, like most) and they really do make the road brighter and projects wider to increase night time visibility. Think of it as an investment in your safety, and shell out the $500 for this option. If you get them as aftermarket parts, it'll cost you upwards of $1000 so you might as well invest in them now... But if you're really tight on your budget, the regular headlights are actually much brighter than most other cars on the road and will perform great. Also, honestly ask yourself how much night time driving that you do. If you rarely drive at night, then you know my budget-oriented answer: don't get the Xenons!
-> VERDICT: The standard headlights are superb; but if you want increased visibility range and safety and you drive often at night, get this option.

Navigation System ($1800):
Unless you have serious gadget fetish, this option is too expensive for what little that it does. Plus it's CD (not DVD)-based (requiring lots of CDs for a multi-state trip), and the interface is not the best I've seen in terms of usability (Acura has a wonderful Navigation system). I'm not a fan of navigation systems in cars yet: They are still too new and not refined enough to warrant their high prices. Ask yourself if you'll be really using this thing at least once a week. Or do you have a hand-held GPS gadget right now that you use very often? If your answer is no, then it's a waste of money. Also, getting this as an option means you have to get a cassette deck (no in-dash CD) as your stereo option. To be fair, the system can double as a safety feature (much like GM/Saab's OnStar or Mercedes's SOS system) where BMW can locate your car if you get in an accident. If you're on a budget, buy yourself a couple of good maps and keep them in your glove box at all times!
-> VERDICT: Most people will never use it, so don't waste your money. Buy a hand-held GPS system that you can use anywhere, not just in the car.

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REDUCING YOUR PRICE FURTHER
Consider European Delivery if you want to shave off another $2000+ from the car price, as well as enjoy a vacation in Europe driving around in your new BMW. The only downside is the time: You must order your car 3 months in advance, and after you drop off your car in Europe after driving, it's another month (longer if you're on the west coast) before it arrives at your local dealership. [See comments section, and 325Ci.com, for more thoughts]

Remember to negotiate with BMW dealers. People will have you believe that you don't negotiate at import "luxury" car dealers. Even Edmunds.com says MSRP is a good target price for a BMW! Online car ordering sites will quote your MSRP too. But don't give up hope! Yes, they don't come down in price as much as GM or Ford dealers because of their high demand, limited dealer allocation, almost no dealer holdbacks/incentives, but you can still get a deal if you try. I'm a fan of "fax-a-thon" bidding, where I fax an offer sheet to 20 or so dealers within 100 miles from me and pick the best one (of course, if there is only one dealer within 100 miles, you're not going to be as successful). Some dealers quoted me MSRP and cursed me out for having the audacity to negotiate-- I ignored them and later savored the satisfaction of calling them back to say so-and-so dealer 20 miles from them offered $1800 over invoice and I'm buying from them... It's harder to negotiate European Delivery (since your price is already so low and the dealer has to do more paperwork), but I did it so there's no rule against negotiating. :) You can expect an average of $1000 to $2000 over invoice for a 3-series sedan/coupe/wagon, which I will say is a fairly good deal. Don't ever settle for MSRP!

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WRAP-UP
So there you have it. An overview of the options you can put on your 3-series, a comparison of the different trims and models (325 vs. 330), with suggestions geared towards the budget-minded. You can easily end up with a 3-series (sedan/coupe) for under $30K this way.

Remember to honestly ask yourself what your real needs are before going car shopping; you will save yourself a lot of money from not getting options or choosing a model that will be unfit for your needs.

Updated: 6/11/2001