Which 3 series model

[brecohn]

My 1999 Maxima was recently totalled and I want to replace it with a 1999 or 2000 BMW 3 series.
which one would be the best? I value performance, fuel economy (relative), and safety.
Do they all handle the same (not great) way in the snow? What are the key differences in features between the 323 and 325?
I am looking for a sedan because of my car seat access needs.
Thanks for any suggestions out there.

[Celsdogg]

if you want to drive a bimmer in the snow relativly easily than you should probably look at a 325xi. X means all wheel drive.

if you are looking at a used 323i or 325i and want performance, than go with the 325i. they have the same displacement, but the 323i from around 2000 was an economy bimmer of sorts, it only produced around 170hp compared to the 325i's 184hp. if you really want a performance 3 series, go for a 330i. it has 225hp and 214lb/ft of torque. also, if you do decide to go xi, i am pretty sure there was no 323xi, but am not 100% sure about that.

you almost have to choose between fuel economy and performance. most times they dont come together if you know what i mean.

as for actual mpg stats, try out edmunds.com. 323i production was stopped in the US right around or shortly after the turn of the century. E46 325i's have been produced since the E46 came out. and the 330i came out right after the 323i ended.

*All figures and dates are approximate*

[exjarhead]

If you are set on a 1999-2000 your options are 323 and 328. 330 didn't appear until 2001 as did all-wheel drive XI. 328 obviously has more horses (194) and torque (206). Both cars are safe and decent MPG and my 2000 328 RWD 5-sp handles well in the snow with SNOW TIRES!! I wouldn't try summer tires all year.

[brecohn]

So how much of a real difference is there in your opinion(s) between snow tires on a 3-series and FWD on a Japanese sedan, such as an Acura or Maxima?

[Celsdogg]

i think it is a whole let different but you also have to take into account your driving skills. i suck at driving a rear wheel drive car in the snow, but some have no problems doing it.