BMW vs. Audi

I am looking into getting a new or used car. I like the 01-02 BMW 330xi because of its design and since it is AWD. However, I was wondering how it would handle compared to the Audi A4 2.8T Quattro which I have driven before. As well I was concerned about the power from the 330xi and I was wondering if it would be better to go with the M3 that has 333hp, but is rear wheel drive. I live in RI which usually gets a few good snowfalls in the winter plus I go skiing up in VT and NH. Has anyone driven any of these cars to give me their opinion on the handling in snow and wet conditions?

i have a 330xi and am really disappointed with the suspension -- too soft, rolls and float in turns, and jiggles with every bump. used to own an audi, not as good a car overall as the bmw, but far superior suspension in awd mode. good luck.

...the 330xi engine is awesome, though, with tons of power and torque across the range. it is much more powerful and torquey than the audi 2.8. i can't comment on the new audi 3 liter engine.

I have read on a few forums that the BMW AWD is no Quattro. If the cold and wet weather handling is important to you go with Audi. I know I would still choose BMW with or without AWD. Good luck.

It depends on what you're looking for.

Having the need to drive to skiing will definetely compromise the
car. The problem, in my opinion, is that BMW does not offer the sport package on the xi series. A lot of the performance (handling) comes from the sport package. I have a 2001 325i w/ the sport package and it is sweet, much better than the Audi, which I have also driven. But I also driven the 325i without the sport package and it is a completely
different experiance.

Just my $0.02. Good luck.

What everyone else said I agree with, but if you are gonna consider a new E46 M3, then without question go for it, screw the winters, you'll make due. Those cars are so incredibly amazing that it still baffles my mind to this day.

I grew up in Massachusetts and now live in Germany. If you don't plan on moving South for the next 10 years then go with the AUDI. The Quattro is setup better than the Bimmer especially RI. Similar to weather here in Germany. By the way, I'm driving a 95 318i and with only RWD it sucks. But summer has to come and those Alpen roads and the Autobahn are just beckoning.

Good Luck!!!:o)

Whatever you do dont get the M3! 340bhp though the rear wheels only, in snow? Wont get very far!

cheers,
jay

My opinion? If driving in snow for skiing is very important to you, get any recent Audi with Quattro. If you do not want to compromise performance and have plenty to spend, buy an M3 or 330i Sport and don't expect much from the car in the winter (especially the M3). Best compromise? Probably an Audi A4 3.0 Quattro with the Sport Package (or older 2.8 Quattro with the Sport Package). 1.8T Quattro should be great too. If you must have a BMW, fine, then get a 330xi.