2002 330i: Stick vs. Auto and Sport vs. Non-Sport

[JonS]

I am about to trade in my '96 328i for an '02 330i. My '96 was a 5-speed with a sport package. While I enjoyed the handling, the suspension for city driving was so rough it rocked my spine. I was hoping to sacrifice a little cornering for comfort, but it seems that all 330i cars come with the sports suspension. Am I likely to have the same complaints or is the 330i stock suspension going to be smoother? Should I go with the 325i instead for a gentler ride (I'd miss the 3.0 liter engine, though). Also, any thoughts on whether I will miss the 5-speed. I like the control, but I thought the new steptronic overdrive setting would be almost as responsive. Any thoughts or advice appreciated.

[webber]

I just ordered a 325Ci on 4/5/02. I drove everything from a 325Xi, 330Ci, 325Ci, 330Cic and with different trans combos. The steptronic is a very nice transmission, but you will definitely loose some performance if you chose to purchase one (there's quite a "lag" between down or up shifts even in manual mode). I chose the base suspension for the same reason you mentioned, sport susp is just a little too harsh (5 years ago I'd have wanted this for the handling but I'm getting older and would rather have a slightly softer ride). I believe the 325's and 330's have the same suspensions, the 330's have 17" in wheels/tires vs. the 325's 16"s, this may "cause" the 330 to ride just a bit harder. The base suspension on the 325 & 330Ci's I think is the sport suspension optional on the 325 & 330i's. Another factor you may want to consider is the cost and wear factors of the suspension/tire package you choose.

[becky]

I have driven a stick since I could drive and test drove the steptronic - not even CLOSE to driving a stick. If you drive in a lot of traffic you may want to consider it for ease. For fun and control - no brainer - go with the stick!

I'm also interested in how people feel about the suspensions - is the sport supension standard on the 330? Can you really tell a big difference? I'll have my car a long time (once I decide on it) so I want it to be comfy. It's too bad they make it so difficult to pick exactly what you want without taking an arm or a leg......